I currently drive a Sienna which has 165k on it and no issues. Before that I drove an Aztek with 175k before I had to get rid of it. Honestly I don't expect the Mustang to last that long and I would probably buy a new car before then, but I would like to feel confident about 100k/5 years at a minimum.

 

Different machines on different missions, however, as a long-time Ford Mustang owner (since 1995), the highest maintenance and reliability cost concerns I've had centered on the TIRES and the rear-end differentials. If you get through 5 years of driving the current MT-82 transmission vehicle, I would predict you are fairly "safe".

Since this car has a 5yr/60000mi powertrain warranty, you have the protection if something does fail.

And by the way, the predecessor V8s from the Ford modular engine family (the 4.6L), are known to last well over 150,000 miles if not longer with proper maintenance. Take a look at Ford Crown Victoria engine service life as an example.

From my perspective, if you want a high performance vehicle that is in this price point, the 5.0L and MT-82 transmission in stock form should be reliable in a daily driver configuration. If you are a weekend road racer or drag racer, it might be a different story.

 

I think that overall, Ford makes about the best car out there. My 01 Escape has 180k and drives like new. My 06 Mustang GT has 65k and the only non-maintenance repair was one recall. Its my daily driver but I am retired and only drive about 10k per year. My 95 GT was just as good. I wouldn't hesitate to get a new Mustang. My best friend just bought a 13 GT. If I'm not too attached to mine I may get a new one in a couple of years.

 

Just bought a 2012 GT at the beginning of April. Have 2000 miles on it. No issues. I have a 1998 cobra and has 41k original miles on it. Only problems I ever had with the car were caused by my fun at the drag strip and road course. I say get the car and enjoy it...you wont be disappointed in the least

 

I don't think you made a mistake -- matter of fact, I would gladly (with the proper incentive) trade my 2012 for a 2013