When Ford introduced the redesigned Mustang for the 2005 model year, they aimed to remind buyers of the original Mustangs of the 1960s. In both the coupe and the convertible retro cues abound, from the side stripes, to the taillights, to the familiar round headlights. Inside, the gauges, the shifter, and the three-spoke steering wheel all remind you that this is a direct descendent of the original pony car.
The base Mustang features a 4.0L V6 that puts out 210 horsepower. The suspension is tuned more towards ride quality than performance, but the smaller engine is no slouch, proving it has enough guts to get to 60 mph in less than 7 seconds. Aluminum wheels are standard, as are power mirrors, a tire pressure monitor, power windows, and remote keyless entry.
Options available on the V6 include a Shaker 500 audio system upgrade, which provides a six-disc CD changer with MP3 capability, Sirius satellite radio, and antilock brakes, which are a $775 option. Ford's MyColor feature allows the driver to adjust the color of instrument lighting to one of 125 color combinations. It's available with the Interior Upgrade Package.
The Mustang GT comes equipped with a 4.6L V8 and a five-speed manual transmission, a limited slip differential, traction control, and larger 17-inch aluminum wheels. Antilock brakes are standard as well a rear spoiler and fog lamps.
The GT500 shows Carroll Shelby's influence is still felt at Ford. The legendary car designer was asked to turn his attention to enhancing the Mustang GT's performance and, the result is the new GT500. It has a 5.4L supercharged engine that generates an astonishing 500 horsepower. Ford also decided to equip the GT500 with a solid rear axle. This has the effect of making the vehicle very drag-race friendly, as it minimizes wheel spin and helps pin the rear-wheels to the ground under heavy acceleration.
Dress the GT500 in white paint with blue over-the-top and side stripes, and you have a modern-day replica of Shelby's now-famous 1964 GT350--only with substantially more power and all the modern safety enhancements. The new GT500 comes with antilock brakes, side curtain air bags and traction control. The 2007 GT500 starts at $40,930 for the coupe and $45,755 for the convertible.
Great Performance At A Low Price
Retro-fantastic Styling.
The current generation of the Ford Mustang was introduced in 2005; for 2007 the "Standard" trim has been dropped. New standard features include an audio input jack, tire pressure monitor, and cruise control. Sirius satellite radio is now available, as are heated front seats. A new California Special package is offered on the GT Premium trim that includes leather front seats, a unique front fascia and chin spoiler, side scoops and stripes, as well as 18-inch aluminum wheels.
The big addition for 2007 is the high-performance Carroll Shelby-designed GT500. Equipped with a 5.4L supercharged and intercooled V8, a six-speed Tremec manual transmission, a limited slip differential, a solid rear axle, and an SVT-tuned suspension, it's a legitimate factory hot rod.
The Mustang GT, which starts at $25,695, is an excellent performance value--with 300 horses and confident handling, it's sporty and stylish. The Mustang V6 is also quick, getting to 60 in 6.5 seconds, while the handling is oriented toward a comfortable ride. Mileage on the V6 is rated by the EPA at 19 city/28 highway, and prices start below $20,000.
