The Ford Mustang is one of the most popular sports cars on the planet, boasting an endless number of happy owners. Much of the model's popularity stems from its impressive performance capabilities, whether it's an entry-level Pony, a GT, or the latest GT500.
Still, there's always room for improvement.
Performance modifications, or "mods,” are the perfect option for Mustang owners looking to upgrade their stock setup. From boosting engine output to refining handling, the right Mustang mods can reinvigorate the driving experience, whether you're on the track or running errands.
To help you choose the ideal Mustang mods for your needs, this guide explores the best performance upgrades worth considering. But first, let's review the basics of mod shopping and look at some of the Mustang's design specs that make it prime for customization.
Comprehensive Guide for Mustang Performance Upgrades: What to Know Before You Start Shopping
- Performance Goals: For the best mod shopping experience, you should first have a basic idea of your performance goals. Whether it's more power, better handling, or a throatier exhaust note, having a goal ensures any upgrades align with your driving aspirations while also maximizing your investment.
- Installation Difficulty: If you plan to DIY your Mustang performance upgrades, you should first understand each mod's installation difficulty to ensure you're up to the task. Some mods, like a cold-air intake, are straightforward to install, while others, such as a supercharger, may require specialized tools and technical knowledge.
- Warranty Impact: The last thing any Mustang owner wants is to learn a mod voided their warranty. But even if it doesn’t, any damage traced back to an aftermarket mod might not be covered. Before making any alterations, consult your dealership or warranty papers and check that your desired upgrades won't inadvertently lead to costly coverage issues.
- Compatibility: Perhaps your most important consideration should be compatibility, as not all Mustang mods are universal. For instance, a 2014 Mustang GT mod isn't guaranteed to fit a 2020 GT. You don't want to disassemble your engine and learn the part’s fitment is wrong. For a smooth experience, always buy from trusted suppliers like JEGS, which lets you filter parts by make, model, and year.
- Brand and Part Quality: Only shopping well-known brands is also suggested, as they usually sell higher-quality parts, upping your odds of a successful performance upgrade. While bargain options may seem tempting, the adage "you get what you pay for" often holds true, with many budget brands cutting costs with inferior materials or fitment.
Key Design Specs for the Mustang That Make it the Perfect Mod Car
- Powerful Engines: Ford has consistently equipped the Mustang with robust, high-performance engines popular with enthusiasts for their mod potential. Some examples include the 4.6L and 5.4L Tritons, the 5.0L Coyote, and the 5.2L Predator. Such solid foundations make the Mustang a fantastic car for mods.
- Aerodynamic Design: The Mustang's iconic design isn't just for show; it's also about aerodynamics. Ford has sculpted each generation to reduce wind drag, ensuring better high-speed stability and efficiency. Still, all models can benefit from aerodynamic upgrades, especially vintage Mustangs, which have more drag.
- Rear-Wheel Drive: Another nice thing about Mustangs is that they’ve always exclusively been rear-wheel drive (RWD). RWD typically translates to better weight distribution, meaning improved handling and balance. Just like having a strong engine to depend on, RWD is an excellent foundation for performance mods.
- Available Manual Transmission: Ford has always offered Mustangs with manual transmission options. Performance enthusiasts often favor these due to the direct control they provide over gear shifts. This hands-on connection to the engine allows for a more intimate and responsive driving experience.
Best Performance Mods for the Mustang
Install a Performance Exhaust System
Upgrading to a performance exhaust system can improve your driving experience by helping your engine breathe better. This results in optimized combustion that boosts horsepower and torque (by 10% or more in some cases) and gives your car a more aggressive exhaust note.
You can also add high-flow headers to further optimize exhaust flow, leading to a deeper note and better throttle response.
Supercharge the Engine
For a significant Mustang performance upgrade, consider installing a supercharger, which compresses and forces more air into the engine for improved combustion. Depending on the engine and supercharger, horsepower and torque can increase by up to 50%.
Still, quality supercharger kits aren't cheap, typically costing $7,500 to $12,000 just for parts, making them the priciest mod on our list. For the best experience, stick with trusted brands like Edelbrock, Paxton, and Vortech.
Upgrade the Suspension
Performance mods aren't just about power gains; they can also refine how a car feels and reacts. For example, upgrading your suspension with aftermarket coilovers, sway bars, and strut tower braces can reduce body roll and improve road grip, even during the most aggressive maneuvers.
For track enthusiasts, the right suspension setup can mean the difference between setting a new personal best and spinning out on a tight corner.
Get a Performance Tuning/ECU Flash
Your car's electronic control unit (ECU) directs how its many systems interact. By having your ECU tuned, you can adjust air-fuel ratios, ignition timing, turbocharger boost levels, and other parameters to optimize performance.
Another option that's simpler to DIY is to use a flash tuner device, which allows drivers to modify engine parameters using pre-configured profiles or custom setups.
Add a Cold-Air Intake
One of the most beginner-friendly Mustang mods is a cold-air intake. These systems work by drawing in cooler air from outside the engine bay that’s denser and contains more oxygen, meaning better overall combustion.
Cold-air intakes are relatively easy to install and add around 5-20 horsepower, a similar bump in torque, a few extra miles per gallon, and a louder exhaust note.
Improve the Aerodynamics
While Mustangs are inherently aerodynamic, there are ways of further reducing drag, such as by adding a rear spoiler. Spoilers not only enhance aesthetics but also create downforce, which can improve high-speed stability – especially vital for RWD cars like the Mustang.
Other exterior mods with similar benefits include front splitters, which manage airflow under the car, and side skirts that minimize turbulent air along the sides.
JEGS: For All Your Automotive Performance Needs
But that’s not all; there are many other performance mods worth considering, like upgraded brakes, performance tires, an aftermarket throttle body, and high-output injectors, to name just a few.
Ultimately, Mustang mods are about tailoring your ride to suit your unique preferences and driving style.
For all your automotive needs, consider JEGS, a leading supplier of performance auto parts. Still have questions? Contact our team today.
