Hey everyone, I’ve been eyeing a Manual V8 for about 6-7 years now and I’m finally looking at a 2022 GT base with 13,600 miles, priced at $34,999 through CarMax. It fits my budget and is a base model, so no large radio screen or active exhaust. I tested a GT Premium with an automatic, and while I liked it, I really want the manual. I’m planning to keep the car long-term and upgrade it over the years. The only catch is that the car had a minor collision, according to the Carfax, it hit a parked car but was still drivable. I’ve been pre-approved for a 5.75% interest rate over 5 years. I’ll also check with my bank and credit union, and plan to put down 20%. I’m almost ready to make the purchase (about 95%), but I’ll test drive it again this week. What do you all think? I’d love to hear your feedback. Thanks!
If you’ve been waiting for 6-7 years, you might want to hold out for exactly what you want. Don’t rush it.
I think it’s a bit much for a minor collision and for a base model. Try looking around on autotempest for better deals.
I wouldn’t recommend CarMax. I found a lot of base models under $30K for the same trim and manual transmission. Check out caredge.com and filter for just manuals. But if you’re set on spending $35K, the premium trim might be the way to go.
KBB says it’s worth $31-33K. Also, about that 5.75% interest rate—did CarMax offer that? Prime rates are about 8-9% right now, so that could make this deal better than it seems. CarMax doesn’t negotiate, but they might make up for it with a better APR. Just make sure to inspect the car thoroughly for any damage from the accident. If you’re comfortable with the price, it’s still a solid deal. By the way, the base models can have an upgraded radio and drive modes with the 301A package, and active exhaust is an option on base models too. I’ve got a 2023 manual Fastback with a night pony package and active exhaust. Paid $40K for it with 1,300 miles back in January. Car prices are all over the place right now, so it’s worth comparing with other Mustangs in your area. The interest rate is a big factor, but 5-6% is the norm for new cars, and 8-9% for used cars these days.
@Uri
Thanks for the info! I should’ve explained my situation better—my pre-qual was through CarMax. I have a good credit score, regular debt (house payments, etc.), and I also own a Chevy Malibu and a Traverse. I recently hit a milestone in my PhD and went to test drive the Mustang as a treat. I wasn’t planning to buy, but I also wanted to see if I could fit in it (I’m 6’3 and 250 lbs), and thankfully, I can! I plan on going hybrid or electric eventually, but I just wanted a V8 manual car for the fun of it. I’ve considered Camaros and Challengers, but heard they’re being discontinued, and most of those are out of my budget anyway. I’ve never owned a Ford but have had cars like an Infiniti Q50 in the past. I learned a lot working on cars, like swapping parts, with one of my first cars, a ‘92 S10 Blazer. So, I don’t mind working on a car. The V8 sound and manual are really the appeal for me with this Mustang, and I feel like Ford has it down with this model. The interest rate is what made me think this deal might not be that bad. I’m just looking for feedback from Mustang owners—am I missing anything here? Thanks, and sorry for the long post!
@Ellery
Sounds like you’ve really thought this through. If they stick to the 5.75% APR, then it sounds like a good deal. Just keep an eye out for any defects from the collision. I bought a car from CarMax before and it went well. They have strict pricing, so they won’t negotiate, but it’s usually a fair deal. As long as you put down at least $5K, you should never be upside down on the loan. Skip the gap insurance from CarMax though, and get it from your insurance if needed. First mod I’d recommend for a GT is the Steeda jacking rails.
If you’re set on getting a 2018+, I’d recommend the automatic for the 10-speed transmission. A manual Gen 3 just doesn’t seem worth it. Alternatively, if you really want a manual, consider a Gen 2 GT Premium. It’s cheaper, comes with more features, and has a stronger engine block. Swap the intake manifold for a Gen 3 one, and you’ll get similar performance with the Gen 2 engine at a much lower price.
@Amory
Good point on the Gen 2 block—it’s definitely stronger. The gearing in the 2015-2017 models is also better than the 2018+ Gen 3. You’ll get better acceleration with the shorter gearing. Gen 3 engines have direct injection issues, and some early models had cam phaser problems. With a Gen 2 intake and a Lund tune, you’ll get better performance than a stock Gen 3.
@Lindon
Right, I was mostly focused on the transmission, but you made some really good points about the engine too. Thanks!
Keep looking around. Check Carfax and CarGurus, and filter for exactly what you want.
I think you can find a better deal. I got a GT/CS for $40K with similar mileage just a year and a half ago.
There are plenty of options in that price range. Make sure to get exactly what you want.
You might want to find one with the PP1 package. It comes with a better differential, improved brakes, and better cooling, all of which make it more fun to drive—especially if you want the manual.
I spent $35K last December on a base model with 22K miles. I paid a bit more for the ‘hawk eye’ color, but it was in like-new condition.
That’s a nice car. Go for it!
I’ve got a 2019 GT Premium with a 6-speed manual. I’d suggest waiting for a premium model instead, and definitely stay away from CarMax—they’re charging too much for this 2022 GT. You’re going to miss the heated/cooled seats, large screen, and heated steering wheel if you get a base model.
That’s not quite a base model, though. Those wheels are from the Premium trim. This is actually a GT Premium.
Rio said:
That’s not quite a base model, though. Those wheels are from the Premium trim. This is actually a GT Premium.
I am not sure if you mean don’t buy a base or this is not a base, you may know better than me. Here is the interior which is what I was basing that on.
@Ellery
Just to clarify, the 300A & 301A are base packages, while the 400A & 401A are Premium packages. So yes, that’s a base.