The 2008 Ford Mustang with a V6 was offered with two transmission choices: a five‑speed manual and a four‑speed automatic.
Overview of the 2008 V6 Mustang
Manual transmission option
What you get with the manual
For drivers who wanted a hands‑on experience, the 2008 V6 Mustang paired the 4.0‑liter V6 with a five‑speed manual transmission. This setup was commonly the Tremec TR‑3650, a robust manual gearbox used across several Mustang trims during that era.
Translating to the road, the manual option offered more direct control and a sportier feel, appealing to enthusiasts who preferred shifting gears themselves.
- Tremec TR‑3650 5‑speed manual (used with the 4.0L V6 in Mustangs of this era)
- Engages gears via a traditional clutch pedal
- Typically paired with the V6 drivetrain without the added complexity of additional performance hardware
In this configuration, the Mustang delivered a more involved driving experience, with all‑around control over acceleration, engine braking, and gear selection.
Automatic transmission option
What you get with the automatic
For those who preferred convenience, the 2008 V6 Mustang was also offered with a four‑speed automatic transmission. The automatic option was the 4R70W, a conventional four‑speed unit that provided smooth shifts and easy highway cruising.
The automatic equipped Mustangs tended to emphasize comfort and ease of use, especially for daily driving or long highway commutes.
- 4R70W 4‑speed automatic (commonly paired with the 4.0L V6 in 2005–2009 Mustangs)
- Electronic control with adaptive shifting characteristics
- Overdrive geared for relaxed cruising and improved efficiency on long trips
This configuration offered seamless operation for most drivers, with little engine‑revving effort during steady cruising and easier traffic maneuvers.
Which configuration matches your needs?
If you crave engagement and a traditional driver’s feel, the five‑speed manual is the way to go. If you prefer effortless driving and smoother city commutes, the four‑speed automatic is a solid, practical choice.


