2020 Ford Mustang vs 2019 Ford Mustang

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt provided an even more exhilarating look and feel. It represented everything a Mustang should be, but with a stylish enhancement that took the iconic car to new heights. The front end, with its blacked-out, chrome-trimmed grille devoid of the traditional pony logo, brought a transformative appearance. People were intrigued by its look, often questioning, “What is that?” The Bullitt managed to boost the already impressive power of the Mustang GT by an additional 20 horsepower, reaching 460 hp, and topping out at 163 mph—8 mph higher than the regular GT. All of these modifications made the Bullitt stand out, ensuring it wasn’t just another Mustang on the block.

The 2020 Ford Mustang Bullitt carried on the legacy of its predecessor while honoring its cinematic roots. This special edition drew inspiration from the 1968 Mustang GT fastback that Steve McQueen drove in the movie "Bullitt," retaining the timeless Dark Highland Green paint. However, it was also available in Shadow Black, for those who preferred a different touch. The car featured subtle chrome accents, retro Torque Thrust-style 19-inch aluminum wheels, and a simulated gas tank cap on the back labeled “Bullitt.” Internally, green stitching on the leather upholstery and a white cue-ball shifter knob gave a nod to its classic lineage. A serialized plaque added exclusivity to the dual-cowl dashboard. The Mustang's stance and look were spot-on, capturing the essence of the 1968 model while adding modern sophistication.

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt came equipped with a nearly 500-hp V8 engine, adaptive dampers, and a 6-speed manual transmission that guaranteed fun. It achieved 60 mph in just over four seconds and completed the quarter-mile in about 12.5 seconds. This performance ensured it received attention wherever it went. Despite the stiff suspension, which some might find a bit harsh, the ability to flick out the rear end provided a thrilling experience. The car also featured an 18.5-foot turning radius, making it reasonably manageable on the streets.

Fuel economy stood at 15 mpg city and 25 highway, figures that were respectable given the engine’s power. This meant your wallet wouldn’t be hurting too much when taking the car for a long drive or to a local track, where different driving modes would let you exploit the Bullitt's performance to the fullest.

The Mustang Bullitt’s performance features included a four-mode active exhaust system, creating a sound reminiscent of McQueen’s ’68 Mustang. Its six-speed manual transmission required a driver who could handle gear shifts but offered downshift rev-matching to smooth the ride. Fuel economy for the 2020 Bullitt was reported at 14 mpg city and 23 highway. These figures were competitive within its category.

Additionally, Mustang Bullitt came with structural bracing, improved engine cooling, a Torsen limited-slip differential, Brembo brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and adaptive suspension through MagneRide dampers. All these features contributed to creating a muscle car that could confidently transform from a street car to a track star, and vice versa.

The 2019 Ford Mustang Bullitt was not designed to be a practical vehicle. With just 13.5 cubic feet of trunk space, it wasn’t well-suited for transporting large items or comfortably seating four adults. Despite its shortcomings in cargo capacity and rear-seat space, the Bullitt's design, power, and overall appeal overshone these functional limitations. However, the interior suffered from some low-quality plastics and lackluster fitment, underscoring a need for improvement given its price tag.

The 2020 Ford Mustang Bullitt shared similar space limitations. The rear seats were unsuitable for passengers taller than five feet, and there was minimal interior storage. Yet, it remained comfortable for two adults and offered the same 13.5 cubic feet of cargo space, suitable for a week-long road trip. The standard leather seats featured six-way power adjustments, with optional Recaro performance sport seats available for those seeking better bolstering.

The 2020 model also included practical touches such as a heated steering wheel and a useful suggestion to start the car in second gear when driving in traffic, which provided smoother handling. While storage and practicality were not its strong suits, the Mustang's focus on style and performance were more than convincing for its target audience.