We Compared Mustang V6 and V8 Engines – Here’s What You Should Choose

Greetings to all of you petrolheads and car enthusiasts. Thinking about getting a great muscle car, but can't decide whether to buy V6 or V8 Mustang? Then this is the right article for you. There is everything you need to know about the pros and cons related to those models.

Key features and my opinion about the 3.7L V6 engine

• Production years:2009-2020
• Average lifespan of 3.7L V6 Cyclone:210,000-250,000 miles
• Fuel supply type:port injection
• Power range:272-350 hp
• Fuel efficiency:bad
• Engine block material:aluminum
• Engine reliability score:medium
• The most common problems:water pump failure, phasers are pretty weak, oil leaks are common.

Key features and my opinion about the 5.0L V8 engine

• Production years:2011-now
• Average lifespan of V8 Coyote:280,000-310,000 miles
• Fuel supply type:port injection, later-combined injection (port+direct)
• Power range:360-460 hp
• Fuel efficiency:awful
• Engine block material:aluminum
• Engine reliability score:high
• The most common problems:oil leaks, weak plugs and coils, electronic throttle issues, EGR problems.

Mustang V6

First, let's talk about the smaller V6 engine. As we all know there are a couple of V6 engines or the popular "sixers", depending on the model it comes in a range of 300-400hp, and enough torque to keep it interesting. When we compare Mustang with other muscle cars in that range, it is clear that the Mustang is an obvious choice, because it is fun to drive.

Not only it's fun to drive, but because of classic lines and traditional good looks, it is a proper head turner everywhere you go. But the most information we can gather reading what other owners said about the Mustang V6.

The first thing we can notice is that is much cheaper than the V8, and that was crucial for many people. But the best thing is that you get a lot of fun for the money's worth. A great number of Mustang V6 owners admitted that they wish to buy a V8, but they are quite pleased with a smaller V6, and they wouldn't trade it for anything else.

Another thing that a lot of people took into consideration is gas consumption. Averaging 25 mpg, the smaller V6 engine turned out to be a great option for an everyday drive. This is something that you should really think about when buying any car, and not just Mustang V6.

MAINTENANCE

Now let's talk about maintenance. Even though Mustang V6 is an affordable and reliable car, we must keep regular maintenance, to keep everything running smoothly. A regular oil change is something to keep an eye for, it is not expensive, depending on the model the cost is somewhere in the range of 60$. We can agree that is not a big price to pay to keep everything running perfectly.

Reading about recommended V6 maintenance and owner experience it is good to check and possibly change the brakes after 30 000 miles. That sums up to somewhere between 250-500$. This is a little more expensive but important to do, to keep you and everyone around you safe.

PROBLEMS AND ISSUES WITH MUSTANG V6

Like any car, there are some issues with the Mustang, depending on the model, but what is common for every model is that it pretty quickly loses its value. This is because of the V8 cult, and the widespread opinion that only V8 is a proper Mustang muscle car.

On the other hand, there were reported some issues with the body paint in 2007 models, mainly on the bumper and the hood.

In some cases, paint problems are direct correlation with rusty hood, which is also a problem in some of the older models, produced from 2007 to 2010.

Another thing that you can experience while driving is vibration, which comes to around 60 mph. This can be a problem caused by an imbalanced driveshaft, or with a rear part assembly.

A common electrical problem with some older models is fast battery drain, which is not only an issue but it is also annoying. Experts say that is a problem with faulty alternator diodes, but only in models older than 2010. Repair is fairly easy; you just need to swap the alternator for a younger model.

Some of the major issues are related to a six-speed gearbox. People experienced low engagement, and troubles with the high-rpm shifting, which is very important for any car, and crucial for a speed-loving muscle car.

Owners also had trouble with gear clashes and total transmission failure. If you want to improve durability and shifting quality you can install aftermarket parts like short-throw shifters, stronger clutches, and shifter support brackets.

Either way, if you own or buy the 2011-2014 model you can expect to have some issues with the transmission, which is one of the biggest problems you can experience with this model.

CONCLUSION

In general, in this economy, it is good to think about the price of gas, and not to mention that insurance is smaller for this type of Mustang, so if this is something that makes a difference to you then this is just the right car for you. 

Mustang V8

What to say about the iconic Mustang V8? How to start the story about a legendary gas-gobbling, super muscle car? As we stated before, some people consider this model to be the only option when buying any muscle car, not settling for anything less.

Let us talk first about the massive 5L engine, which comes depending on the model between 400 and 500hp, and a huge torque that will give you a massive acceleration on the track or the road. We can't say that it is fuel efficient car, averaging 21 mpg, but it is not meant to be fuel efficient, it is made to be just fun.

Because of the above mentioned, we must draw attention that this huge engine is not suitable for a beginner, because it is just too strong, and you need experience in driving such a powerful muscle car.

This beautiful classic head turner comes with a higher starting price tag than its smaller cousin, the V6, which is in a way important, especially in this economy, but true V8 lovers will ignore the price, and go for the bigger and more powerful option.

We must add also that the insurance is much higher for this model, but if you already decided to own a big muscle car, you will pay extra for the pleasure that it gives you, and for that smile on your face while driving it.  

MAINTENANCE

Mustang V8 is considered to be a very reliable car, and with proper maintenance, it can run without problems for years and years.

Like with the previous V6 model, it is also important to provide it with a regular oil change, which is low cost and can be done quickly. The average cost for an oil change is around 200$.

In regular maintenance, we can also include changing brakes every 30 000 miles. This will set you back somewhere between 300-700$.

Overall maintenance is not as costly as someone might think, and it is not considered a deal breaker when buying this model.

PROBLEMS AND ISSUES WITH MUSTANG V8

As we stated before, Mustang V8 is as reliable as it gets, but it also has some issues and problems, like any other car.

Older models of Mustang are reported to have issues with the Camshaft position sensor. Owners reported that the car made chirping or squeaking noises, especially during winter or until the engine is warmed up.

One of the problems that is also brought to attention is leaky valve cover gasket in some older models, which can also lead to a much bigger issue, like a blown head gasket or a crack in the engine block.

But with regular maintenance this can be avoided, so keep an eye out for that.

Some of the owners said that their vehicle squeaks when turning, especially at lower speeds. This is a problem with a worn tie rod end. Repair is quick, and it doesn't cost much, and you should do it immediately because it can affect your driving experience.

Some models of Mustang have problems with the mass air flow sensor or MAF. Replacing the MAF is not costly, depending on the car model it ranges from 200-300$, and it requires professional installment to prevent future problems with MAF.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, if the price tag isn't an issue, Mustang V8 is a type of vehicle that will bring joy into your life and a smile on your face, and you should really consider buying this car.

Final words

Hopefully, this article helped you with your decision, either way, you will get an amazing car that will satisfy your need for speed.