2024 Mustang GT vs EcoBoost: Which Should You Buy?

Back in September 2022, Ford announced the arrival of the seventh-generation Mustang, dubbed the S650 generation. We also got confirmation that, just like with previous Mustangs, several trim options will be available when order banks open. This includes the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang, as well as the 2024 Mustang GT.

Lets take a look at the differences between the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang and Mustang GT models. We'll dive deep into each trim's performance, aesthetics, and value so you can decide which one is right for you.

As neither of these models have been officially released yet, some specs are still subject to change. We'll update this article as more information becomes available.

For a comparison of the other 2024 Mustang trims, check out our 2024 GT vs Dark Horse and 2024 Dark Horse vs EcoBoost trim comparisons.

Exterior Comparison

While the dimensions of the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang and Mustang GT are virtually identical, there are some apparent styling differences on the exterior. Here are a few key features that set these trims apart on the outside.

Exhaust Tips

Similar to previous generations, the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang exhaust has dual tips while the 2024 Mustang GT uses quad tips. Arguably, the exhaust's sound is of more interest to buyers. See below for the differences in exhaust note.

Badges

The 2024 Mustang GT trim gets a newly styled “GT” emblem on the trunk lid. It also has a fender badge showing off the “5.0” liter capacity of the Coyote engine. The 2024 EcoBoost Mustang doesn't have fender badges, and it gets the classic running horse rear emblem on the trunk. You can make up for the lack of a fender badge by adding an aftermarket badge or other accessories.

Grille/Fascia

The 2024 Mustang GT has a more aggressive front-end when compared to the grille of the 2024 Ecoboost Mustang. A sharper angle on the trim surrounding the grille and a less rounded hood with vents contribute to a noticeably different appearance for the GT model.

The GT also features a prominent angled insert on either side of the grille that's missing on the EcoBoost.

Wheels

The 2024 EcoBoost Mustang comes standard with 17-inch wheels, while the GT comes with larger 19-inch wheels. GT buyers can also upgrade to 20-inch alloy wheels if they choose.

There's also a bronze appearance package that'll be available for both the 2024 GT and EcoBoost. It adds bronze alloy wheels (pictured on the EcoBoost below) and badges.

Interior Differences

The interiors of the 2024 GT and EcoBoost are similar, with a few key differences depending on which trim level you choose. There are base and premium trims available for both models. At a base level, both the 2024 Mustang GT and the EcoBoost come with the all-new S650 Mustang digital instrument cluster.

The 12.4-inch dual-screen cockpit has customizable display options that adapt to the drive mode you're in. There's also a 13.2-inch infotainment screen right next to the new instrument cluster, which uses Ford's Sync 4 software, making both Mustang variants highly connectable with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Both models come with cloth seats, but the GT gets leather inserts, while the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang comes with micro-suede vinyl inserts.

Engine and Transmission Specs

Being a brand-new generation, the 2024 Mustang boasts power upgrades for the GT and EcoBoost models. The 2024 EcoBoost Mustang houses a 2.3-liter port fuel direct-injected turbocharged I-4 engine that outputs 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. This is an output upgrade of 5 hp over the S550 EcoBoost.

However, the 2024 Mustang GT is a different beast altogether. The brand-new 4th-Gen Coyote engine outputs a whopping 480 hp with 415 lb-ft of torque. Though this is a slight torque reduction of 5 lb-ft from the previous motor, it adds 20 hp over the S550's Gen 3 Coyote Engine.

There are a few key differences that separate the 2024 S650 Mustang engine configurations, including the construction materials and the induction method. The 2024 EcoBoost engine has a high pressure cast aluminum block and head. The GT gets the cast aluminum block and head, but with plasma transferred wire arc cylinder liners and a steel oil pan.

For induction, the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang has a twin-scroll turbine with an overboost system. The GT, by contrast, is naturally aspirated with dual air boxes and throttle bodies.

In 2024, the GT will be available in either a 6-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic. The EcoBoost model will only be available with an automatic transmission. So, if rowing through the gears is a priority for you, the GT is your only option (besides the Dark Horse).

While these performance specs obviously favor the 2024 GT, the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang is still a great engine that offers a ton of power at a significantly lower price.

In case you are interested in adding power through aftermarket parts, It is unclear at this time whether the S650 Mustang ECU can be tuned.

Exhaust Note

We'd be remiss if we didn't bring up how these Mustangs sound. The 2024 Mustang GT sounds better. It's almost impossible to say otherwise. The power of the V8 is very evident through the GT's classic rumble and growl.

Still, the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang doesn't sound bad for a 4-cylinder. While you can't make it sound like a V8, you can get more growl, turbo whistle, and overall volume with aftermarket exhaust upgrades. Check out our EcoBoost exhaust guide for ideas on how to improve a turbo Mustang's sound with options like installing a cat-back exhaust.

The 2024 Mustang GT's volume and tone can also be significantly altered to suit your tastes. Both the 2024 EcoBoost and GT have active exhaust as a performance upgrade option. This setting lets you artificially adjust how loud your exhaust will be, which is especially nice for the GT owners who don't want to wake up the whole neighborhood on startup.

Another cool feature that comes standard on all 2024 Mustang models is that you can now remotely rev your engine from your key fob, letting you show off the power of your Mustang without having to be in the car.

Handling and Suspension Differences

Ford made a concerted effort to make improvements to the handling of the S650 Mustang Thankfully, these upgrades are available for both the EcoBoost and GT models.

New to the 2024 Mustang is a track-inspired, flat-bottom steering wheel, designed for tighter turns with greater control. The 2024 EcoBoost Mustang and GT also both have six new selectable drive modes: normal, sport, slippery, track, drag strip, and a customizable mode. There are plenty of options to express your driving style.

The Performance Pack, a new 2024 Mustang package option also improves the S650's handling and suspension. Upgrading to the performance pack will add Magneride as well as the new electronic drift brake.

The e-brake is designed to help anyone learn how to drift and enhance their drifting abilities by making the Mustang's body easier to rotate.

With these upgrades being available for both the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang and Mustang GT, the suspension and handling for these two models is very comparable.

Which 2024 Mustang Is Better: EcoBoost or GT?

The 2024 Mustang GT is designed for superior performance when compared to the 2024 EcoBoost. However, there are some distinct advantages to the EcoBoost, like price and fuel economy, that make it worth considering.

Who Should Get a 2024 Mustang GT?

Despite the attractive lower price of the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang, there's nothing quite like the sensation of putting your foot down in a V8 Mustang. The 2024 Mustang GT is for enthusiasts that have the extra money to spend to get the power and sound of the brand-new Coyote.

For many buyers, the exhaust note alone is worth the price of admission. The GT also offers a manual transmission option, which the EcoBoost lacks, making it a no-brainer if you want control over every shift.

If the GT is the S650 for you, check out this comparison between the 2024 Mustang GT base vs premium trim levels.

Who Should Get a 2024 EcoBoost Mustang?

The 2024 EcoBoost Mustang should cost about $10,000 less than the GT, making it a great entry-level trim option for the new S650 generation. Despite being the least expensive option, the 2024 EcoBoost Mustang still offers top-of-the-line performance, giving you great bang for your buck. You'll save money at the gas pump too, as the EcoBoost will have better fuel economy.

The 2024 EcoBoost Mustang also has options for almost all of the features new to the S650 Mustang generation, including interior dash technology as well as new Performance Pack options like the electronic drift brake. If you're looking for the best value in a 2024 Mustang, the EcoBoost is a great place to start. Whether you choose an EcoBoost or a GT, make sure to check out our 2024 Mustang Parts page if you're looking to maximize your S650 experience.

Sources: 2024 Mustang Preliminary Technical Specs, Ford

Image Credit: Ford