The Ford Mustang has been the best-selling sports car in the U.S. for quite some time. From its robust V8 engine to a wide variety of available configurations, there is a Mustang for everyone. As a result, Consumer Reports has ranked the Ford as the best brand-new American sports car. However, its competition follows closely behind.

The 2021 Ford Mustang is Consumer Reports’ best American sports car

Introduced originally in 1964, the Ford Mustang has continuously impressed throughout its over 50-year lifespan. According to Consumer Reports, the 2021 model remains the top dog. During Consumer Reports’ road test, both the four-cylinder and eight-cylinder mustangs impressed reviewers. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost managed to reach 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. Additionally, according to Consumer Reports, the lighter turbo-Mustang was quite agile and even returned an impressive 25 mpg average.

If you’re a fan of the muscle car, chances are you’re more interested in the Ford Mustang’s naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine. According to Consumer Reports, the V8 Mustang reached 60 mph in 4.9 seconds, or just half a second slower than a Chevy Corvette and Porsche 911. With 460-hp under the hood, there is plenty of grunt on tap for most muscle car fans. According to Consumer Reports, the Performance Pack model tested also included stiffer springs, Brembo brakes, and a limited-slip differential. The result is that this particular V8 Mustang was more than capable of putting its power to good use.

In terms of daily driving the Ford Mustang reportedly also excels. During Consumer Reports’ testing, it found that the muscle car offers excellent visibility. Additionally, you get a comfortable set of seats, and an excellent infotainment system. The result here is that the Mustang is not only quick but a versatile machine as well.

How much does the Mustang cost?

Being the best American sports car means nothing if the masses can’t afford it. Thankfully, the Ford Mustang is available in a variety of trim levels at reasonable prices. The cheapest mustang available is the Fastback powered by the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine for $26,670. As you’d expect, this version is relatively barebones and doesn’t offer many performance goodies. Up from there, you can opt for the EcoBoost Premium for $31,685. This upgraded trim offers larger wheels, a larger infotainment system, and leather seats. If you want the best out of the EcoBoost, you’ll want to get the optional High Performance Pack for just under $5,000. The pack includes 19-inch wheels, a performance exhaust, larger brakes, and a larger radiator, to name a few components.

If you want to step into the land of V8 power, the GT Fastback starts at $35,880. The Ford Mustang GT Premium bumps the price up to $39,880. Like with the Ecoboost, you get a nicer infotainment screen and leather seats. Additionally, you can option the Performance Pack Level 2 for $6,500. For the extra cash, you get Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, 11-inch-wide rear wheels, Brembo brakes, and a MagneRide dampening system tuned for the track, amongst other components.

How do its competitors stack up?

While the Ford Mustang is certainly in the sales lead, it isn’t there by a lot. That’s because Consumer Reports ranked its rivals, the Dodge Challenger and Chevy Camaro, just behind it. In the case of the Challenger, the muscle car excelled in the braking, acceleration, comfort, and driving experience categories. It’s a similar story with the Chevy Camaro. The Chevy excelled in the acceleration, transmission, braking, emergency handling, and driving experience categories.

As a result, while the Mustang may be the one to get, you’ve got plenty of good options if you’re looking at any of these modern muscle cars.