Ford Mustang Dealers in Raleigh NC & Collectible Mustang Models
The Ford Mustang represents American automotive passion - from the 1964½ original to today's high-tech GT500. Whether you're shopping for a full-size Mustang in Raleigh or collecting scale models, this guide connects you with both dealerships and diecast replicas of America's favorite pony car.
Ford Dealers in Raleigh NC Area
🚗 Local Ford Dealerships:
- Fred Anderson Ford of Raleigh - Northwest Raleigh, full lineup including Mustang
- Leith Ford - Wendell/East Raleigh area, new and used Mustangs
- Performance Ford - Nearby Benson location for Mustang enthusiasts
- Triangle Area Dealers - Additional Ford locations in Cary, Apex, Durham
Note: Always call ahead to confirm Mustang inventory, especially for specific trims like GT, Mach 1, or Shelby models.
Current Mustang Lineup (2025)
🏎️ Mustang EcoBoost
Engine: 2.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder
Power: ~315 HP
Appeal: Fuel efficiency meets performance, great daily driver
🔥 Mustang GT
Engine: 5.0L V8 "Coyote"
Power: ~480 HP
Appeal: Classic V8 sound, track-capable, manual or auto
⚡ Mustang Mach 1
Engine: 5.0L V8 (upgraded)
Power: ~480 HP (enhanced handling)
Appeal: Track-focused with heritage styling
🐍 Shelby GT500
Engine: 5.2L supercharged V8
Power: 760+ HP
Appeal: Ultimate Mustang performance, limited availability
Mustang History: Generations Overview
First Generation (1964½-1973)
Iconic Models: 1965 Fastback, 1967 GT390, 1969 Boss 429, 1970 Mach 1
Significance: Created the "pony car" class, affordable performance for everyone
Diecast Collectibility: Extremely popular - most replicated era
Second Generation "Mustang II" (1974-1978)
Context: Downsized for fuel crisis era
Collectibility: Less popular but gaining nostalgic interest
Third Generation "Fox Body" (1979-1993)
Iconic Models: 1993 SVT Cobra, 1987 GT 5.0, Fox Body notchbacks
Significance: Lightweight, modifiable, strong aftermarket
Diecast: Growing collector demand, especially for special editions
Fourth Generation "SN-95" (1994-2004)
Iconic Models: 2003-2004 SVT Cobra (supercharged), Bullitt
Evolution: Modernized styling while retaining V8 heritage
Fifth Generation "S197" (2005-2014)
Iconic Models: 2007-2009 Shelby GT500, 2012-2013 Boss 302
Design: Retro-inspired styling, massive popularity
Diecast: Wide variety available, Shelby models highly sought
Sixth Generation "S550" (2015-2023)
Iconic Models: GT350, GT350R, GT500 (760HP)
Innovation: Independent rear suspension, global appeal
Diecast: Current production, many models available
Seventh Generation "S650" (2024+)
Latest Evolution: Modern tech with traditional V8 power
Status: Now arriving at Raleigh dealerships
Collectible Mustang Diecast Models
Can't afford a real Shelby GT500? Diecast models let you own every Mustang generation on your shelf!
Popular Scales
1:18 Scale (Premium)
Size: ~10 inches long
Brands: AutoArt, AUTOworld, Maisto Premiere
Features: Opening doors/hood/trunk, detailed engines, $50-$200
1:24 Scale (Mid-Range)
Size: ~7-8 inches long
Brands: Jada Toys, Maisto, Franklin Mint
Features: Opening features, good detail, $20-$80
1:64 Scale (Collectible)
Size: ~3 inches long (Hot Wheels size)
Brands: Hot Wheels, Johnny Lightning, Greenlight
Features: Affordable, huge variety, $1-$15
Most Collectible Mustang Diecast
- 1967 Shelby GT500 "Eleanor" - Gone in 60 Seconds movie car, highly detailed 1:18 models
- 1969 Boss 429 - Rare original, expensive diecast replicas ($100-300 for 1:18)
- 1965 Fastback - Original pony car in various liveries
- Bullitt Mustang (1968 & 2001 & 2019) - Movie tie-ins always popular
- 2020 Shelby GT500 - 760HP modern beast, new diecast arrivals
🏁 Shop Mustang Diecast Models
Browse our collection of Ford Mustang diecast models in multiple scales. From classic '65 Fastbacks to modern Shelbys - we have the ponies you want!
View Mustang Collection →Mustang Clubs in Raleigh/Triangle Area
Connect with local Mustang enthusiasts:
- Triangle Mustang Club: Monthly meetings, car shows, cruise-ins
- Carolina Mustang Club: Statewide organization with Raleigh chapter
- Facebook Groups: "Raleigh Mustang Owners" and "NC Mustang Enthusiasts"
- Cars & Coffee: Monthly gatherings (Cary, North Hills) - Mustangs always welcome
Mustang Events in NC
- Ford Performance Racing School: Charlotte Motor Speedway (2 hours from Raleigh)
- All-Ford Shows: Annual Mustang-heavy gatherings
- Drag Racing: ZMAX Dragway near Charlotte hosts Mustang races
- Car Shows: Goodguys, local cruise-ins feature classic Mustangs
Why Mustangs Are Perfect for Collectors
- Iconic Design: Instantly recognizable across all generations
- Racing Heritage: Trans-Am, drag racing, road racing success
- Movie Fame: Bullitt, Gone in 60 Seconds, countless appearances
- Wide Variety: From base models to ultra-rare Shelbys
- Affordable Entry: Unlike Ferrari or Lamborghini, Mustang collecting is accessible
- American Pride: Represents American automotive independence
Building a Mustang Diecast Collection
Collection Themes:
- ✓ All Generations: One model from each era (1965-2025)
- ✓ Shelby Only: GT350, GT500, Cobra variants
- ✓ Movie Cars: Bullitt, Eleanor, Death Proof, John Wick
- ✓ Boss Collection: Boss 302, 429, modern Boss editions
- ✓ Color Variants: Same model in every factory color
- ✓ Racing Liveries: Trans-Am, NASCAR, drag racing Mustangs
Conclusion
Whether you're visiting a Ford dealer in Raleigh to test-drive the latest GT or building a diecast collection of legendary Mustangs, the pony car's appeal spans generations. Raleigh's Ford dealerships offer today's high-tech Mustangs, while diecast models preserve the heritage of 60 years of American performance. Start your collection today - it's more affordable than the real thing, takes up less garage space, and never needs an oil change!