The Need For Speed Mustang Love
top of page

A Look Back At The Need For Speed Mustang Love

Updated: Feb 8, 2023

Since its debut in the Need for Speed franchise twenty-five years ago, The Ford Mustang has been an iconic and beloved car in a classic racing saga. Go back through two decades of memories to see why the Mustang is so prized by racers worldwide.



Reviewing the Iconic Ford Mustang in Need for Speed Series

The Need For Speed Mustang love connection has remained steadfast from the classic, roaring V8 of the first two games to the latest releases. The classic muscle car drivers on unforgettable moments and is integral to Electronic Art's Need for Speed legacy and story. Look back at this legendary car that has given us so many memories throughout its presence in the series over the years. Whether you like a rear spoiler and dual-scoop hood with custom bodywork, a custom Shelby, or Bullitt with tight suspension, there have been many configurations to choose from throughout the series.



The Ford Mustang's First Appearance in Need for Speed II

In 1997, The Mustang made its first appearance in the racing world of Need for Speed. This initial version was based on the 1994 model and featured a V8 engine with plenty of power to take down any competition. While it may not have been the fanciest car available then, this tough rear-wheeler was a force to be reckoned with. As one of the most popular and well-known cars on the market, it was only fitting that this car would become a part of such an iconic racing game franchise.


need for speed mustang mach 3
Need For Speed 2 Mustang Mach III

1994 Ford Mustang Mach III

The Mach III was a high-performance car that was in development by Ford. It featured a 5.8L supercharged V8 engine that made it one of the most powerful cars on the market. Despite its impressive stats, the car was never released to the public, and only a few prototypes were made. Although it was never released, this concept car was featured in Need For Speed II.



The Mustang GT Enter's The Underground

In Need For Speed Underground 2, the newly released 2005 Mustang GT, was available and fully customizable. Seeing the class-modern design fitted with side skirts, body kits, and underglow was incredible. It was a perfect car for those who loved the new look but wanted to add their personal touch.


need for speed 2005 mustang gt
Need For Speed Underground 2 2005 Mustang GT

2005 Ford Mustang GT

The 2005 Mustang GT was an intelligent car among car enthusiasts. It was a complete redesign, using the classic 1967 body style as its inspiration. It featured a V8 engine and had a lot of power. It was also very stylish and modern looking.



The Mustang GT Is Still Unbound

NFS unbound has a Ford Mustang GT that can be customized to your heart's desire! Need For Speed Mustang cars are always fun to upgrade.


need for speed unbound 2015 mustang gt
NFS Unbound 2015 Mustang GT

2015 Ford Mustang GT

The 2015 Ford Mustang features a 5.0L V8 engine, producing 435 horsepower. It has a 0-60 time of 4 seconds flat and can reach a top speed of 155 mph. That's good for a stock model.



The Evolution of the Need For Speed Mustang Cars

Since the beginning, the Need For Speed Mustang has been a fan favorite. It's also one of the most popular cars in America, and it's easy to see why. The car is fast and stylish, with many different ways to customize it. There hasn't been an NFS game since 1997 that hasn't featured this classic American muscle car, with most games using the latest version of the vehicle in the game.



The Need For Speed Mustang Meets The Silver Screen

Ford takes center stage in the 2014 Hollywood film, Need for Speed, based on the racing video game franchise of the same name. The movie tells the story of Tobey Marshall (Aaron Paul), a street racer framed for a crime he didn't commit. When he gets out of jail, he sets out to get revenge on those who wronged him. With stars such as Michael Keaton, Rami Malek, Imogen Poots, and Dakota Johnson, this movie does the game series some serious justice.


mustang gas station scene need for speed movie
Need For Speed Movie: Mustang Gas Station Scene

The Koenigsegg Agera R is beautiful, but the Shelby is the true hero car of the movie! The movie features a 2013 Wide body kit Shelby Mustang with a supercharged 5.8L Ford Racing V8 engine. This Shelby is capable of cranking out 900 horsepower! The standard GT car was given a more aggressive look, made possible by the efforts of TechnoSports Creative and Steeda in building the eight movie cars. The car chase scenes in the movie are some of the most intense ever put to film, and the GT 500 plays a starring role.


VIDEO: Need For Speed Mustang Movie Scene



Was the Need For Speed Mustang custom-built?

Yes, the 2013 Shelby GT 500 used in the movie was a custom-built creation of Ford and DreamWorks. TechnoSports Creative and Steeda played a crucial role in building custom cars.



How much HP did the Mustang from Need for Speed have?

Reports of the Shelby GT 500 specs from the Need For Speed movie put the horsepower at around 900HP!



Where is the Need For Speed Mustang now?

Dave Flynn of Columbiana, Ohio, is the lucky owner of the Need For Speed Mustang. The custom Shelby looks the part of a Hollywood-worthy muscle car, wearing a custom wide body kit, 22-inch wheels, and silver paint with Kona blue stripes. He won the car in a charity auction in 2014. The proceeds of the sale went to benefit the Henry Ford Health Systems charity.



Need For Speed and Mustang Belong Together

While The Need For Speed Mustang has changed significantly over the years, it has always remained an integral part of the series. From its humble beginnings in NFS II to its starring role in the 2014 movie, this car is truly an icon within the racing world.

bottom of page