USA vs USA — 2012 vs 1964
| Mustang Shelby GT500 | Mustang Convertible 289 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 662 hp | 225 hp |
| Torque | 631 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 5,812 cc | 4,727 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 3.5 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 202 mph | 120 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 11.6 sec | 15.9 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,720 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,825 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 2/10 |
On balance, the 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1964 Ford Mustang Convertible 289 V8 counters with its own distinct appeal, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 for outright capability, or the 1964 Ford Mustang Convertible 289 V8 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford Mustang. The 2012 and 1964 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 662 hp compared to 225 hp, a 437-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Mustang uses a V8 DOHC 32V Supercharged displacing 5,812 cc, while the Ford Mustang relies on a V8 OHV with 4,727 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 edges ahead at 3.5 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. Each of these machines offers a unique window into the era that produced it, making both worthy of consideration by collectors and drivers alike.