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The Ford Mustang GT returns in 2024 with more power, a new look, and the promise of a few more years of V8-powered shenanigans. However, even with the better part of 500 horsepower on tap, the new Mustang GT has more to give. Specifically, owners will have to order their 2024 models with an optional extra to unlock the extra ponies in the Mustang’s stable. 

The 2024 Ford Mustang GT’s Performance Exhaust System makes it the most powerful factory GT ever

A blue 2024 Ford Mustang GT shows off its blue brakes.
2024 Ford Mustang GT | Ford

It’s true; the 2024 Ford Mustang GT packs the most powerful V8 of any factory GT model to date. Specifically, the 5.0L Coyote V8 in the new GT delivers 480 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Better yet, power figures remain the same from the 10-speed automatic to the row-your-own six-speed MT-82 manual transmission. 

However, shrewd Mustang fanatics won’t stop at 480 ponies. Instead, the new GT’s optional active-valve performance exhaust system bumps peak power to 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. Moreover, the 2024 Ford Mustang GT with the performance exhaust system offers a more visceral soundscape for drivers, especially those who enjoy aggressive downshifts with the model’s manual gearbox. 

Beyond the exhaust options, the Blue Oval added a dual-intake and dual-throttle body setup to maximize airflow to the fourth-gen Coyote V8. On top of other improvements, the latest Coyote out-muscles the 2023 model by 30 ponies (36 with the performance exhaust option).

Of course, 486 horsepower is far from the limit regarding the Coyote V8’s full potential. Ford offers the naturally aspirated 5.0L mill with 500 horsepower in the track-ready Dark Horse trim. What’s more, the aftermarket is full of options to push a Coyote’s horsepower output into the stratosphere. 

Die-hard Coyote fans argue that the engine will handle around 700 horsepower at the rear wheels before the mill’s survivability comes into question. Still, to generate that sort of power, owners will have to opt for forced induction, like a supercharger or twin-turbo kit. 

That said, power like that without sticky rubber to match is more hilarious than practical. The current 486-horsepower GT is subject to tire-smoking traction limitations on its factory-staggered 255 and 275 Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tires.

Source: Ford Media