Since the sixties, the upper echelon of American automotive ingenuity has been dominated by American muscle cars. This is due to their style, extraordinary performance, and unparalleled status as a symbol of American design, and among them, the Mustang has been a fan favorite. These automotive juggernauts have garnered worldwide respect and the hearts of auto fans everywhere for their deafening V-8 roar and impressive power.

This is a Pony car that has stood the test of time defeating endless legions of contenders and pretenders, though a few opponents have come close. But in the current climate of electrification, as the glorious era of American Muscle cars that we've known and loved for decades (in gasoline form) is coming to a close, the 2024 Mustang will thankfully carry the legacy of the Muscle car all by itself for some more time, as both the Camaro and Challenger are on their way out.

RELATED: The S650 Mustang Is The Last Bastion Of American Muscle Cars

A Shift Towards Eco-Friendly Muscle

Three-quarter view of Dodge Charger Daytona SRT EV
Dodge
All-electric Dodge Charger Daytona SRT

The U.S. Muscle car market, nonetheless, has as of late confronted numerous obstacles. It is getting harder for makers to deliver high-performance engines while staying consistent with administrative regulations as a result of stricter mileage and emissions guidelines. As an immediate outcome, numerous automakers are currently planning to put a greater amount of attention on building zero-emission and eco-friendly vehicles.

The Chevrolet Camaro, and the Dodge Challenger, the Mustang's two primary rivals, were both recently discontinued due to this change. The two models enjoyed prolonged fame among enthusiasts and as these cars strayed away from the V-8 monsters that had controlled the open road for decades, their discontinuation signaled a sign of things to come. However, the Mustang has endured, even brushing off a previously rumored hybrid model and it will be the last surviving gasoline-powered Muscle car, and the best part is, you can still get a stick on the upcoming S650 (not available with the EcoBoost).

RELATED: The Best Ford Mustangs of All Time

Staying True to Tradition And The Fan Base: The Bones Of A Mustang

A parked 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback
Mecum
Front and side view of a 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback 

One reason the Mustang has made it through; is Ford's commitment to the past. Ford has recognized the value of the Mustang's brand and the dedicated fan base it has built up over the years, regardless of strain to deliver more eco-friendly vehicles.

Albeit the conventional V-8 engines offered with a Mustang have gone through adjustments and upgrades over the long haul, their fundamental bones have not changed. The V-8 engine in the Mustang is renowned for its power, and responsiveness, which are essential ingredients for providing a visceral driving experience.

RELATED: Here's Every Way In Which The 2024 Ford Mustang Improves On Its Predecessor

The 2024 Mustang Embraces Modern Tech While Preserving The Legacy Of The Past

Three 2024 Ford Mustangs
Ford
Front-end shot of the 2024 Ford Mustang, Mustang Convertible, and the Mustang Dark Horse

Numerous Mustang enthusiasts applaud these choices since they feel that the vehicle's particular gas-powered V8 engine makes it special. Albeit a half-breed or electric Mustang could decrease emissions and further improve gas mileage, it probably won't have the ability to match the thrill of a conventional V-8 engine.

The 2024 Ford Mustang keeps up with custom while likewise addressing a huge improvement in auto innovation. The vehicle's different highlights are everything except ordinary, regardless of the engine being traditional. The 2024 Ford Mustang S650 comes in three powertrain choices, each with its own impressive horsepower and torque numbers.

2024 Ford Mustang 5.0-liter V-8 Coyote engine
Ford 
Top view of the new 2024 Ford Mustang 5.0-liter V-8 Coyote engine

First, we have the base-level engine which is an EcoBoost turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder flexing 330 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. Secondly, you have the 5.0 Coyote V-8 that puts out a healthy 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. Then there is the Darkhorse Mustang powered by the same Coyote 5.0 V-8 engine, which delivers a whopping 500 horsepower and 418 pound-feet of torque.

The Coyote mill has been upgraded with a dual air intake box and dual throttle bodies making it better than the outgoing Mach 1 engine, making the Dark Horse, the most powerful naturally aspirated Mustang in history. Ford started using these engines around 2011, to compete with the Chevy Camaro's GM 6.2L LS3 engine, and was the first time Ford used the Twin independent variable cam timing tech on their V-8 engine.

All models come with a 10-speed auto, while a six-speed manual is only available with the V-8. As for the ride and handling package, the Mustang with its front engine rear wheel drive setup will be complemented with an optional magna-ride damping system and a limited-slip differential, and that new electronic drift brake.

The design of the S650 generation is more evolutionary than revolutionary As ever, customizing your ride is a big part of Mustang culture and the 2024 model doesn't disappoint. You can different visual bundles, permitting owners to modify their vehicles with vinyl wraps, wheels, and pinstripes, and that is just the tip of the iceberg.

But the star of the show is once again the Dark Horse package, which features all-black accents and unique emblems. This beast sports a menacing look with its sleek design and Blue Ember metallic paint, made specifically for this model.

RELATED: The Internal-Combustion Ford Mustang Era May Be Ending Earlier Than Previously Reported

Innovative Features And Continued Legacy

2024 Ford Mustang Darkhorse interior black
Ford.com
2024 Ford Mustang Dark horse passenger side interior

The 2024 Ford Mustang is the perfect mode of how a car can combine both classic and modern. Its mighty V-8 engine may be a throwback to fading era, but its other features are innovative and modern, giving drivers an exhilarating but safe experience.

Step inside the 2024 Mustang and although the old double cowl dash is gone to make way for the screens, it packs a lot more state-of-the-art innovation and tech. These incorporate a 12-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8.0-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto similarity, and a backup camera.

Not that you need a better soundtrack since you have the V-8 at your disposal, but the available high-end Bang and Olufsen sound system will be a treat for audiophiles. The Mustang accompanies a few safety advances, for example, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

RELATED: 10 Things You Need To Know Before Ordering A 2024 Ford Mustang

Thanks To The Mustang, The Pony Car Lives On For Now

2024 Ford Mustang Range
Ford
An outdoor shot of two 2024 Ford Mustang coupes and a convertible

With the debut of the 2024 S650 Mustang, Ford is providing what its customers want while adhering to its heritage by sticking with its conventional V-8 engine. The 2024 Ford Mustang S650 flaunts amazing power and performance equipment across each of the three powertrain choices, alongside different visual bundles to allow owners to customize the appearance of their ride. With the Dark Horse as the top option as of now, the future is bright with a GT500 variation not too far off.