Ford Mustang Diffuser

The Ford Mustang, an iconic American automobile, has been in continuous production since 1964, making it the longest-produced car nameplate from Ford. Currently in its seventh generation, it ranks as the fifth-best selling car nameplate from the brand. Developed as a sporty and stylish coupe and convertible, the Mustang is credited with creating the "pony car" segment, characterized by its distinctive styling with "long hood, short deck" proportions.

When it debuted on April 17, 1964, the Mustang far exceeded sales expectations, with over 400,000 units sold in its first year alone and reaching one million sales within two years. This successful launch made it the most successful vehicle introduction since the Model A in 1927. As of August 2018, Ford celebrated the production of its 10-millionth Mustang, replicating the first model's specifications.

The Mustang's success prompted other American manufacturers to enter the market with competitors like the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird in 1967, the AMC Javelin in 1968, and the Dodge Challenger in 1970. It also influenced global designs, resulting in cars such as the Toyota Celica and the Ford Capri being marketed in the U.S. The Mercury Cougar was introduced as a higher-end variant aimed at the luxury segment.

Historically, the Mustang maintained shared chassis elements with other Ford models, remaining rear-wheel-drive throughout its run. From 1965 to 1973, it was based on the 1960 Ford Falcon, transitioned to the Mustang II (based on the Ford Pinto) from 1974 to 1978, and then shared its Fox platform with numerous Ford vehicles from 1979 until 2004. Since 2005, two distinct platforms unique to the Mustang have been utilized for its successive generations.

Various nameplates and performance variants have emerged under the Mustang banner over the years, including the GT, Mach 1, Boss 302/429, and Cobra, along with special editions like Bullitt, as well as the notable "5.0" fender badging that represents the powerful 4.9 L and 5.0 L V8 engines.