2013 Ford Mustang GT Review – A Muscle Car Icon with Modern Thrills
Introduction
The 2013 Ford Mustang GT is a bold and brash symbol of American muscle car culture, offering serious V8 power, aggressive styling, and an intoxicating driving experience. Positioned in the fifth generation of Mustang production (2005–2014), the 2013 model received notable updates that enhanced its appeal while maintaining the retro-inspired charm that fans love. The GT trim, in particular, delivers the sweet spot of performance and daily usability.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore every aspect of the 2013 Mustang GT—from its design and powertrain to interior features, driving experience, and real-world ownership considerations. If you crave performance and style wrapped in a heritage badge, this Mustang might just be your perfect ride.
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Exterior Styling: Classic Meets Contemporary
The 2013 Mustang GT received a refreshed look compared to earlier fifth-gen models. Ford sharpened the design with more aggressive details while preserving its retro silhouette.
Exterior Highlights:
Updated front fascia with HID headlamps and LED accents
Power dome hood with functional heat extractors
Signature tri-bar LED taillights
Revised grille and lower valance
Dual exhaust tips
GT badges and 18-inch alloy wheels (19-inch and 20-inch available)
The refreshed lighting, more pronounced body lines, and aggressive stance give the GT an unmistakable presence on the road. Whether cruising or parked, it commands attention.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the 2013 Mustang GT lies a 5.0-liter Coyote V8, a naturally aspirated powerhouse that defines the car’s character. Responsive, powerful, and thrilling—this engine is what muscle car dreams are made of.
Engine Specs:
Engine: 5.0L Ti-VCT V8
Horsepower: 420 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 390 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual (standard) or 6-speed automatic (optional)
Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive
0-60 mph: ~4.3 seconds (manual)
The GT’s Coyote V8 revs willingly and produces a deep, throaty exhaust note that’s both raw and refined. Throttle response is immediate, and the powerband is broad, making for exhilarating acceleration in any gear.
Ride and Handling
While Mustangs have historically leaned more toward straight-line speed, the 2013 GT strikes a satisfying balance between raw power and road handling. The addition of the available Track Pack and Brembo brake package further elevate its capability.
Performance Features:
MacPherson strut front suspension
3-link solid axle rear with Panhard bar
Optional Brembo front brakes
Optional Track Pack (3.73 rear axle, performance cooling, upgraded tires)
Electronic Stability Control and traction control
The solid rear axle setup may seem outdated, but Ford tuned it well for performance driving. The GT feels composed on curvy roads and tracks, with good steering feedback and responsive braking.
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Interior Design and Comfort
Inside the 2013 Mustang GT, the retro-modern theme continues with classic gauges, deep bucket seats, and a driver-focused layout. While not luxurious, the cabin is functional and filled with character.
Interior Features:
Cloth or optional leather-trimmed seats
Power-adjustable front seats
Aluminum accents and soft-touch dash
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Ambient lighting
MyColor custom gauge illumination
Interior Dimensions:
Front seats are spacious and supportive, especially with the optional Recaro sport seats. The rear seats, however, are best reserved for short trips or smaller passengers. Trunk space is decent for a sports coupe and adds to its practicality.
Technology and Infotainment
The 2013 Mustang GT offers a respectable suite of tech features for the era, though it lacks some modern connectivity options.
Technology Highlights:
4.2-inch display with Ford SYNC voice control
Optional 8-speaker Shaker audio system or 12-speaker Shaker Pro
Bluetooth phone and audio streaming
USB port and auxiliary input
Available navigation system
Rearview camera and rear parking sensors (optional)
Ford’s SYNC interface is relatively easy to use, and the sound systems offer excellent clarity, especially with the Shaker Pro upgrade. Though it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the infotainment system covers the basics well.
Safety and Security
Safety has improved significantly in modern muscle cars, and the 2013 Mustang GT is no exception.
Standard Safety Features:
Dual front and side airbags
Electronic Stability Control
4-wheel ABS
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
LATCH system for child seats
Available Features:
Rearview camera
Rear parking sensors
Safety Ratings:
While safety features are basic compared to today’s standards, the GT provides solid crash protection and confidence-inspiring braking.
Real-World Driving Experience
On the road, the 2013 Mustang GT shines as an all-around performer. Whether it’s weekend canyon carving, daily commuting, or open-highway cruising, the GT feels alive and rewarding.
The clutch is firm but manageable, and the gearshift is notchy and satisfying. The steering provides solid feedback, and the car stays planted through corners. The exhaust note is addictive, encouraging spirited driving without being obnoxious.
Daily drivability is surprisingly good. The GT cruises comfortably at highway speeds, and the suspension absorbs most bumps with ease—though rough roads will still be felt.
Fuel Economy and Maintenance
Given its performance credentials, the Mustang GT returns reasonable fuel economy.
EPA Ratings (manual):
City: 15 mpg
Highway: 26 mpg
Combined: 19 mpg
EPA Ratings (automatic):
City: 18 mpg
Highway: 25 mpg
Combined: 20 mpg
Ownership Costs:
Moderate insurance premiums for a sports car
Maintenance costs are reasonable for a V8 vehicle
Parts are widely available and affordable
Many owners report excellent long-term reliability with proper maintenance. The Coyote V8 has earned a reputation for durability and performance longevity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Powerful and responsive 5.0L V8
Aggressive and timeless styling
Satisfying manual transmission
Balanced ride and handling
Wide availability of aftermarket upgrades
Everyday usability with solid trunk space
Cons:
Rear seats are cramped
Some interior plastics feel dated
No modern infotainment (no CarPlay/Android Auto)
Ride can be firm on rough roads
Ideal Buyer for the 2013 Mustang GT
This Mustang GT is ideal for:
Enthusiasts wanting a true American muscle experience
Daily drivers who crave power and personality
Weekend racers or autocross participants
Buyers who enjoy modifying or tuning their vehicles
Whether you’re nostalgic for muscle cars or simply want a car that excites every time you hit the gas, the 2013 GT delivers in full.
Conclusion
The 2013 Ford Mustang GT is a muscular, character-rich coupe that offers timeless design, thrilling V8 power, and surprising everyday usability. As a modern classic, it stands out for its engaging drive, affordable ownership, and huge potential for customization.
If you're in the market for a used sports coupe with soul, the 2013 GT is hard to beat. It offers more than just speed—it delivers a visceral connection between car and driver.
Looking for a used 2013 Ford Mustang GT for sale in Norfolk or Virginia Beach? Visit Your Kar Company at 7912 Becket Street, Norfolk, VA 23518 to explore our inventory and affordable financing options today.
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Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. Interested parties should confirm all data before relying on it to make a purchase decision. All prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Prices may not include additional fees such as government fees and taxes, title and registration fees, finance charges, dealer document preparation fees, $599 processing fee, and emission testing and compliance charges. VADLR5929-7574800100.
