USA vs USA — 1965 vs 2020
| Mustang Hardtop | Mustang Shelby GT500 5.2L Predator V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 101 hp | 760 hp |
| Torque | 140 lb-ft | 625 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,786 cc | 5,163 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 14.2 sec | 3.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 95 mph | 180 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.5 sec | 10.7 sec |
| Weight | 2,399 lbs | 4,225 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,720 mm |
| Length | 4,613 mm | 4,808 mm |
| Units Produced | 680,989 | — |
| Original MSRP | $2,368 | $72,900 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 2/10 | 5/10 |
The 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 5.2L Predator V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1965 Ford Mustang Hardtop counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Tracing the evolution of the Ford Mustang from 1965 to 2020 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Ford. The 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 5.2L Predator V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 760 hp compared to 101 hp, a 659-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Mustang uses a Inline-6 OHV displacing 2,786 cc, while the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V supercharged cross-plane crank with 5,163 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 5.2L Predator V8 edges ahead at 3.3 seconds versus 14.2 seconds. The Ford Mustang carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1826 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 5.2L Predator V8 commands a significant premium over the 1965 Ford Mustang Hardtop, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.