An EPA-estimated 18 MPG combined is the price of admission for open-air thrills and unapologetic V8 power in the 2016 Ford Mustang Convertible 5.0L. This isn’t a car purchased for its fuel sipping capabilities. It’s a statement, a weekend escape artist, and a rolling celebration of American muscle held together by a chassis. Buyers drawn to this Mustang know exactly what they’re getting into, and compromised fuel economy is an acceptable trade-off for the roar and responsive power of the naturally aspirated V8.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers break down to 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the Mustang’s weight and displacement take their toll. Short trips and frequent acceleration will keep you firmly planted in that lower range.

On the open road, however, the Mustang’s automatic transmission settles into a more efficient cruise, allowing you to stretch the miles and appreciate the iconic exhaust note without completely emptying your wallet. Still, 23 MPG highway doesn’t make it a long-distance champion. It’s more suited for spirited weekend getaways than cross-country journeys.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Mustang Convertible 5.0L at $2,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Of course, individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of gasoline used.

This number provides a standardized benchmark for comparing fuel expenses against other vehicles, but is by no means a guarantee of what *you* will pay at the pump. Drivers indulging in the Mustang’s performance capabilities will likely see that annual figure climb.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized figures, real-world MPG often differs. Aggressive driving with frequent hard acceleration will significantly decrease fuel economy. Conversely, a conscious effort to drive conservatively, anticipate traffic, and maintain consistent speeds can help you approach the EPA estimates. Understanding your driving style and the types of roads you typically travel is essential for setting realistic fuel consumption expectations.

Don’t expect hybrid-like numbers, but with mindful driving, you might be pleasantly surprised.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2016 Mustang Convertible 5.0L lands where you might expect. The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible with the 6.2L V8, for example, posts similar figures in the low- to mid- teens for city driving and low- to mid- 20s on the highway depending on the exact year and transmission. If you are after better fuel economy numbers, the V6 versions of both the Mustang and Camaro will offer a bump in fuel mileage but at the cost of overall horsepower.

For those potentially cross-shopping more luxurious convertibles, a BMW 440i Convertible offers superior figures, with many early years breaking an EPA estimated 30MPG highway, but lacks the raw, visceral experience only a V8 can provide.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid rapid acceleration. The Mustang’s V8 begs to be unleashed, but every hard launch drinks fuel. Gradual acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently, especially in city driving. Mastering throttle control is critical to avoid guzzling more gas than you need.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. This simple step can lead to a noticeable improvement.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo in the trunk or backseat adds weight, which decreases fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavy objects that impact the vehicle’s overall mass. Keep the interior clutter-free and lighten the load.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid congested areas and routes with frequent stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Choosing routes with smoother traffic flow reduces the amount of idling and acceleration, which can significantly improve fuel economy, especially during rush hour.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long stretches of highway can help optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control minimizes fluctuations in speed, preventing unnecessary bursts of acceleration and deceleration, allowing the engine to operate as efficiently as possible.

For a broader perspective, review all Ford fuel economy data. You may also find it helpful to see MUSTANG MPG across all years.