Moving Forward by Stepping Back
By Nick Kurczewski
For over two decades, Ford left its iconic Mustang coupe relatively unchanged, resting on the laurels of the car's legendary name. The steed remained reliable after numerous cosmetic and chassis tweaks, but underneath were the creaking bones of an old mare.
Ford has finally ditched the ancient platform that has underpinned every Mustang since 1979. The completely redesigned 2006 Mustang has an all-new chassis that is noticeably stronger and stiffer and elevates the new 'Stang far above the outgoing model.
Bigger news than what lurks underneath is the jaw-dropping skin Ford draped over the Mustang's new bones. Inspired by coupes from the late 1960s — especially Steve McQueen's menacing dark-green 1968 Mustang in the cult-classic film, Bullitt — the new 'Stang has created buzz worthy of the original 1964 1/2 model, which sold over one million units in less than a year.
The aggressive exterior melds old and new and is the work of Hau Thai-Tang, director of Ford's Special Vehicle Team. Thai-Tang managed to evoke what many Mustang enthusiasts view as the cars best years — 1964 to 1970 — in a modern shape devoid of clichéd retro cues.
Whether in standard V6 spec or as an up-level GT with its thumping V8 engine, the car oozes cool. Convertible versions of both models are available, but this won't make it much easier to find new Mustangs lingering on dealer lots. Sales for this model are at their highest level in decades, and Ford is purposely keeping production in check to stoke demand.
Even a stripped-down Mustang is a great car. A 4.0-liter V6 engine with 210 horsepower provides spirited acceleration and gives base models an image and performance boost — something the last generation sorely lacked. When equipped with a new-for-2006 "Pony Package," the V6 coupe is arguably the best bargain of the lineup, with its chrome bezel grill, fog lamps, rear spoiler, 17-inch painted cast aluminum wheels, anti-lock brakes, traction control and retro-inspired tape stripes along the bottom of the doors (available in black, white or gold).
There are Deluxe and Premium trims for all models (V6 and V8, coupe and convertible), though Standard trim is available only on V6 models.
GT models have the all-important engine growl and provide power aplenty, thanks to the standard 4.6-liter V8 engine, which delivers 300 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm. Both the V6 and the V8 can be had with a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.
Ride and handling are noticeably improved when compared with the outgoing model, due in no small part to the new, stiffer platform. Ford opted for a solid rear axle, like on muscle cars of yore, instead of a more sophisticated independent setup. The choice cuts cost, but the average motorist isn't likely to tell the difference, as the suspension works well in real-world driving.
The interior is attractive, marred only by swaths of cheap plastic along the lower dash and center console. Instruments that can be illuminated in 125 different driver-selectable colors, metal-look accents on the upper dash and a retro steering-wheel design help alleviate the monotony of Ford's extensive use of black plastic.
Except for the protruding headrests, which continually poke the back of your head, the front seats are supportive and have enough adjustments to make them comfortable for a variety of body sizes. The limited rear head- and leg-room will make the two rear seats uncomfortable for adults of average-to-large build on longer rides, though the space is adequate for short stints or those of smaller build.
Trunk space is decent in the coupe, though hampered by an oversized trunk-mounted sub-woofer in the upgraded stereo package. The folding top on convertible models eats up some trunk space, as well. Estimated fuel consumption for a V6 Mustang with an automatic transmission is 19 miles per gallon in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. GT models are only marginally thirstier.
The only other rear-wheel drive American coupe with a thunderous V8 is Pontiac's seductively subtle GTO. However, the GTO is pricier and often criticized for bland looks. So the new Mustang — a huge improvement on the model it replaces — is virtually unchallenged as the stylish, fast, fun and affordable all-American coupe.
Kurczewski, Nick. "Moving Forward by Stepping Back." 09 Sept. 2005 <http://www.forbesautos.com/reviews/2006/ford/mustang/preview_3.html.>
Forbesauto.com Article
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