Last on this list is the Ford Mustang GT. Mustangs have sparked curiosity and imagination for decades, and third generation Foxbody Mustangs (built between 1979 and 1993) remain a coveted vintage ride for many. A modern Mustang GT is an excellent choice for a driver looking for something with a historic pedigree, classic aesthetics and brilliant pace on the track or on the road. The Mustang is probably the most expensive on this list to maintain over the life of your car, with average costs of $709 per year. Still, that price isn’t significantly higher than the average U.S. drivers are likely to spend each year, so it may justify keeping a Mustang GT running while you search for your next vehicle.
The Mustang GT starts at $38,345 and packs all the classic power elements you want in a performance car. The GT is propelled forward via rear-wheel drive and a 5.0L Ti-VCT engine, and of course it’s a V8 that can be mated to either a six-speed manual or a ten-speed automatic transmission optional The V8 engine produces 450 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. All of this adds up to a true rocket that remains affordable to keep in roadworthy condition.