While the Mustang has changed with the times, it has managed to retain the characteristics that have made it a favorite among automobile enthusiasts. The Mustang sampled the flare of Europe’s famous sports cars and brought it to the United States in a less exclusive, affordable fashion.

This wasn’t a vehicle that only the rich could afford or one you had to import. Mustangs could be bought in American dealerships, and other parts were available in every day repair shops. The Mustang took the allure of sports vehicles and made it something that everyone could enjoy.

Whether you are a fan of the Mustang’s coup design, its big engine or its sharp appearance the Mustang is a vehicle that was a hit from day one. Even today, the older Mustang models are still highly coveted. You can even find parts for the vintage models in stores like CJ Pony Parts because car aficionados are still passionate about the classic models. In an effort to recognize this great vehicle, here is a list of some of the best Mustang models throughout the decades.

1965 Mustang

Also known as the 1964½ model, this pioneering model debuted late in 1964. With evident European influence, the first Mustang featured a coup design, bucket seats and a floor shifter. These unique elements made the Mustang a more attractive alternative to the other popular American-made sports cars of the time according to MSN Autos. Also, in selling more than 680,000 units this car was one of the best selling cars of its time.

1965 Mustang GT-350

Also coming out during the Mustang’s first production year was its first performance model, the Mustang GT-350. In terms of specifications, the vehicles had V-8 engines, 4-speed manual transmissions and 306 horsepower.

Built in Venice, California by Carroll Shelby’s shop, these racing class vehicles were just as fast as they looked. With only 562 of this model produced, they are also one of the rarest models of Mustangs to ever be built.

1970 Mustang Boss 429

2011 Shelby GT350

2011 saw Ford bring back the popular 350 model with an updated, 21st century flair. This ultra-sleek vehicle is the fastest performance model Mustang ever produced by Ford. Its horsepower ceiling is said to be somewhere around 624 horses and it came stock with a 5.0 liter V-8 enging under the hood. Aside from its performance capabilities, the new GT350s are only available in one color scheme, the original white body with iconic blue stripes.

1968 Mustang GT390 Fastback “Bullitt”

In terms of rarity and famous appeal, 1968 Fastback GT390 is at the top of its class. Serving as Steve McQueen’s vehicle during a car chase in the 1968 movie Bullitt, the GT390 is a highly sought after model. In terms of the Fastbacks that were used in filming, there were only two produced and they were reengineered to keep up with the Dodge Charger that served as McQueen’s competition in Bullitt.

Despite the extreme rarity of these movie prop models, the production models of the 1968 GT390 were extremely popular vehicles as well. Although they lacked the aggressive stance and customized performance of the movie models, the Fastback GT390 helped to define a generation of American muscle cars through its rivalry with the Dodge Charger.

Whether you prefer the Mustangs built during the ‘60s and 70’s, or you the technological advancements of more current models, it’s hard to disagree with the Mustang’s development into classic. While this list only represents a small fraction of this iconic car’s production years, it highlights some of its most popular models.

Michael Deaven Michael is a full-time blogger who has passions in all corners of the online world. In his down time he enjoys being outdoors, traveling, and blogging on everything from technology, to business, to marketing, and beyond. Follow him on Twitter