The Ford Mustang is an American icon. Launched in 1964, the original pony car spans seven generations and countless variants. And as long as there have been Mustangs, there have been Mustang owners looking to wring every ounce of performance from their muscle car’s engine and chassis.
Here are the five best ways to take your Mustang's power and handling to the next level.
- Add a Cold Air Intake (CAI)
One of the easiest ways to give your Mustang more grunt is by upgrading the engine’s standard airbox with a larger and more direct cold air intake and air filter. A cold air intake (CAI) helps the engine breathe better by drawing in a greater volume of cooler, denser air into the engine, yielding a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque. As a bonus, you also get better throttle response and a more pronounced intake sound. This leads to more efficient combustion and more power.
Installation is easy, typically requiring only a few basic tools and a few hours.
- Install a Performance Exhaust
Once your Mustang’s engine is inhaling more air, it’s time to let it exhale more freely with a performance exhaust system. Most cars, even Mustangs, come from the factory with somewhat restrictive pipes. Upgrading to a performance exhaust will reduce back pressure, helping the engine expel waste gases more efficiently. This not only boosts horsepower and torque but also gives your Mustang a meaner sound with a deeper, more robust exhaust note.
Depending on your budget and goals, the aftermarket offers two popular types of exhaust upgrades. More affordable axle-back systems swap out the mufflers and tailpipes to improve sound and add a bit of power. For a larger performance gain go with a cat-back system, which replaces everything from the catalytic converters back.
- Tune the Engine
Tuning the engine is a great next step. It involves adjusting the engine control unit (ECU) settings to optimize the ignition timing and air-fuel mixture, replacing conservative factory settings with more aggressive calibrations. Such tweaks can boost power even in a stock Mustang, but they’re even better when paired with a free-flowing intake and exhaust.
The most affordable option is a “canned” tune from an aftermarket brand that offers pre-configured files, developed by expert tuners. They can improve power and drivability for a wide range of engines at a cost of about $100 to $200.
For maximum impact, though, a custom tune is best. A professional tuner will work with you to develop a tune that meets your specific wants and needs, including any modifications that you've made to your car. Custom tuning usually starts around $400 but can exceed $1,000 – especially if dyno testing is included.
- Upgrade the Suspension
With all that extra power, you’ll want better control. Improve your Mustang’s cornering abilities with some easy suspension and chassis upgrades. Installing performance shocks and struts will keep your tires firmly connected to the pavement. Lowering your Mustang’s ride height with a set of coilovers will also bring its center of gravity closer to the ground for a more planted feel.
Sway bars, also known as anti-roll bars, reduce body roll during cornering. You can swap out the factory units for beefier, high-performance versions typically for a few hundred bucks.
- Improve the Brakes
Adding performance brake components will improve your Mustang’s stopping power. Begin by swapping your stock brake pads to high-performance units, which improve grabbing power and heat resistance for about $150 for a full set.
Next, consider slotted or drilled rotors. These enhance heat dissipation, further reducing brake fade during intense driving. They also help clear brake dust and gases giving your pads a larger and cleaner surface to bite into. A set of four usually range from $300 to $600.
For the ultimate in stopping power, add multi-piston calipers. They provide greater clamping force and more even pressure, improving overall effectiveness. Upgrading to high-performance calipers can be a bit pricey, though, ranging from $800 to $1,500 or more.
Bonus Tip: Mount Stickier Rubber
The only part of your Mustang that touches the road are the tires, so they play a pivotal role in acceleration, braking and cornering. None of the above upgrades to your muscle car will matter much if it’s riding on low-quality rubber.
Our Tinker experts recommend a set of high-performance tires in the largest size your current wheels will accommodate. For spirited driving, look for "performance" or "summer" options with a speed rating of V (up to 149 mph) or higher. These tires offer exceptional grip and responsiveness, making them ideal for canyon carving or even the occasional autocross and track day.
Still have questions? Speak to one of our Tinker Experts today!
