The next-generation 2024 Ford Mustang is improved in several areas and, although its prices have inevitably increased, it is still possible to order one for less than $40,000, including various fees but not taxes. It’s almost a miracle in the current context.
When we look across the Atlantic, we can’t help but pity the poor sports car enthusiasts who would like to get a copy.
In Europe, where the new Mustang has just arrived (it is the second generation offered on the old continent), only the GT and Dark Horse versions are offered in the majority of markets and they come with a 5-liter V8. less powerful than here, anti-pollution standards require.
Indeed, the European Mustang GT only generates 440 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque while ours goes up to 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft. The gap is even greater with the Mustang Dark Horse, which provides only 448 horsepower instead of the 500 we know.
Photo: Ford Europe
At least for our friends overseas, the Performance package is included as standard, including 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and a limited-slip differential.
Now, when it comes to the cost of the car, it’s definitely a double standard. Here, the Mustang GT and Dark Horse start at $50,825 and $77,045, respectively. But in France, for example, we are talking about 59,300 euros and 71,300 euros, which is the equivalent of $86,150 and $103,600 depending on the current exchange rate.
Wait, that’s not all: as you may know, the country imposes a tax on polluting vehicles, called an ecological penalty. In the case of the Mustang, as it emits more than 193 grams of CO2 per kilometer (274 g/km, to be exact), the amount rises to… 60,000 euros. In the end, a French buyer must agree to pay a minimum of 119,300 euros or, if you prefer, a little over $173,000!
When we compare ourselves, we console ourselves, right?