AutoWeek First Drive, Oct 4
9/30/04, 06:45 PM
#21
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Originally posted by branch@September 30, 2004, 3:35 PM
AutoWeek did a brief 2 page overview on the 05 GT, with mixed opinions. In brief, liked the exterior but to plain, no real design elements, likened it to a plastic model car.
AutoWeek did a brief 2 page overview on the 05 GT, with mixed opinions. In brief, liked the exterior but to plain, no real design elements, likened it to a plastic model car.
As for the "plastic" comment, that's what I've always thought of the SN95 design. All the scoops and spoilers make them look like plastic toy cars to me. The '05 looks like a real car.
9/30/04, 09:25 PM
#23
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Yeah, AutoWeek is NOT my source of good auto reviews... I love AUTOMOBILE magazine and to some extent, Road & Track is pretty good too. Anyone listening to AutoWeek needs a second opinion. 
9/30/04, 09:31 PM
#24
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i have a 95 stang and an 01 stang, they both have the live axle setup. yes the ride is bumpy at times, but its not like the same bumps arent noticed in other cars. i've never had a problem in the handling department either. if you track guys are in such a desperate need of irs, fine good for you, wait for the cobra or an SE or get another car. in the real world, where most people (i'd bet at least 90%) dont go to tracks, wouldnt care less about irs. 99.99% of the time, guess what, we are going straight, and thank god the new 05 has spent the money for 300hp and not some ludacris european suspension. we just dont need it here in the USA.
i'm not saying the suspension in the 05 is bad, it is by far better than what i've ever had. I've done some crazy stuff in my stangs, and not once did i ever feel lost in control. If you are losing control in a stang, either 1) you really dont know how to drive and you blame it on the lack of IRS, or 2) you need to drive less like a crazy maniac. oh yeah, and 3) you go to tracks, (but what percent really does that? )
i'm not saying the suspension in the 05 is bad, it is by far better than what i've ever had. I've done some crazy stuff in my stangs, and not once did i ever feel lost in control. If you are losing control in a stang, either 1) you really dont know how to drive and you blame it on the lack of IRS, or 2) you need to drive less like a crazy maniac. oh yeah, and 3) you go to tracks, (but what percent really does that? )
9/30/04, 10:44 PM
#26
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Originally posted by G8trStang@September 30, 2004, 11:24 PM
bland? and somehow they find a way to praise the ridiculous looks of the evo, wrx, rsx, celica, eclipse, and the corolla typeS???? yeah, i'm goin to believe these idiots.
bland? and somehow they find a way to praise the ridiculous looks of the evo, wrx, rsx, celica, eclipse, and the corolla typeS???? yeah, i'm goin to believe these idiots.
9/30/04, 11:20 PM
#28
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Originally posted by Badandy@September 30, 2004, 5:07 PM
branch-Are all of your posts negative and trolling
on a good note, thanks for bringing to our attention about AutoWeek.
branch-Are all of your posts negative and trolling
on a good note, thanks for bringing to our attention about AutoWeek.
9/30/04, 11:25 PM
#29
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Originally posted by Grantsdale+September 30, 2004, 5:47 PM--></div><table border='0' align='center' width='95%' cellpadding='3' cellspacing='1'><tr><td>QUOTE (Grantsdale @ September 30, 2004, 5:47 PM)</td></tr><tr><td id='QUOTE'> <!--QuoteBegin-branch@September 30, 2004, 5:35 PM
AutoWeek did a brief 2 page overview on the 05 GT, with mixed opinions. In brief, liked the exterior but to plain, no real design elements, likened it to a plastic model car. Liked the interior but luke warm on the cost cutting cheap hard plastic. Handling superior to former GT, crisp and sharp reflexes,maybe GTO, but inferior to Z350...........exactly like one of our members reported months ago and was unfairly criticized.
Lastly, and I quote " All of that we can deal with(car's shortcomings). What we can't comprehend is Ford continuinintg to equip the first 21st centrury Mustang with a live rear axle............while the competition squeezed it in with the cost of admission'. Interestingly, all these comments are mine EXACTLY............and will wait to test drive one before deciding on it or a G35 6mt, admitedly about $8k more MSRP, but only $6K transaction price, and over a 10 year life, pennies a day.
AutoWeek did a brief 2 page overview on the 05 GT, with mixed opinions. In brief, liked the exterior but to plain, no real design elements, likened it to a plastic model car. Liked the interior but luke warm on the cost cutting cheap hard plastic. Handling superior to former GT, crisp and sharp reflexes,maybe GTO, but inferior to Z350...........exactly like one of our members reported months ago and was unfairly criticized.
Lastly, and I quote " All of that we can deal with(car's shortcomings). What we can't comprehend is Ford continuinintg to equip the first 21st centrury Mustang with a live rear axle............while the competition squeezed it in with the cost of admission'. Interestingly, all these comments are mine EXACTLY............and will wait to test drive one before deciding on it or a G35 6mt, admitedly about $8k more MSRP, but only $6K transaction price, and over a 10 year life, pennies a day.
As far as the live rear axle goes ... this is a car that starts at under $20,000. What "competition" squeezed it in that starts at that price? Even the $25,000 GT starting price, who is the competition with the IRS at that price? Maybe I'm missing something? If Ford was charging GTOish prices for this car, it would have IRS. However, they aren't, and it doesn't. If you want it, spend the extra money and get the GTO or 350z or whatever you want. I'll stick with the awesome styling and the better price. [/b][/quote]
Sorry, I don't have a scanner,or would gladly submit it to this forum. Pls note the overall review was a 8 from a possible 10, not at all negative, but critical of a few 'cut corners' that didn't seem to be justified in a $25K base, $28K typically equipped GT auto. Design is in the eye of the beholder, and if you like the 05 that's great.
10/1/04, 12:01 AM
#30
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Autoweek loves Acura and Infinity, not Ford...I'll wait for Motorweek's impression this weekend, wonder if it'll be in Gauss's Garage?
Though some time (maybe even 2-3 years) will need to pass in order to compare the Live vs IRS skidpad numbers, let's see how Steeda/Saleen tweek the new suspension and what numbers they can produce. A suspension aftermarket upgrade package will cost less and can be enjoyed today, instead of complaining of an expensive future.
Though some time (maybe even 2-3 years) will need to pass in order to compare the Live vs IRS skidpad numbers, let's see how Steeda/Saleen tweek the new suspension and what numbers they can produce. A suspension aftermarket upgrade package will cost less and can be enjoyed today, instead of complaining of an expensive future.
10/1/04, 01:16 AM
#31
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from what i understand(from other topics like this) is that the IRS wouldnt cost that much more but.......lets not go there.
Point is this car pulled .84 on the skidpad and a 66 mph skidpad with 55 series all season tires in 235 width. Can you imagine a fat set of 8 1/2-9 inch rims with 255 SUMMER rubber. I can imagine .9 or with that alone. So in conclusion, yes lack of IRS is a little dissapointing, but obviously this car was well designed for handling and does mighty well given its pedigree. Given 3000 well placed dollers you could make this car handle very well IMO, and thats cheap as far as good suspension goes.
Jason
Point is this car pulled .84 on the skidpad and a 66 mph skidpad with 55 series all season tires in 235 width. Can you imagine a fat set of 8 1/2-9 inch rims with 255 SUMMER rubber. I can imagine .9 or with that alone. So in conclusion, yes lack of IRS is a little dissapointing, but obviously this car was well designed for handling and does mighty well given its pedigree. Given 3000 well placed dollers you could make this car handle very well IMO, and thats cheap as far as good suspension goes.
Jason
... my wayward son... there'll be peace when you are done!
10/1/04, 02:36 AM
#33
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canadian prices
G35 manual msrp = $47,700
GT Mustang manual = $32,795
price difference = 14,905
for the price difference alone i could almost buy a new 04 V6 mustang (19,995)
Yes the G35 is a very nice car,but its missing that something that makes one passionate about cars,i cant really describe that feeling in words,but the 05 mustang just seems to have it...
Good luck with your decision branch:
G35 manual msrp = $47,700
GT Mustang manual = $32,795
price difference = 14,905
for the price difference alone i could almost buy a new 04 V6 mustang (19,995)
Yes the G35 is a very nice car,but its missing that something that makes one passionate about cars,i cant really describe that feeling in words,but the 05 mustang just seems to have it...
Good luck with your decision branch:
10/1/04, 02:51 AM
#34
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For those who haven't read it, you can go here to read the LA Car.com review.
http://forums.bradbarnett.net/index.php?showtopic=6494
http://forums.bradbarnett.net/index.php?showtopic=6494
10/1/04, 05:37 AM
#35
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from the recent USA Today review:
"The solid rear axle forces both rear wheels to jump when only one goes over a bump. In theory, that should cause a rougher ride and flighty steering. Nope. Lots of reengineering of spring and shock absorber location and clever design, sizing and placement of suspension components seem to have all but eliminated the ills associated with a solid rear axle, at least during vigorous driving on public roads."
so there you have it, everyone let out a deeeeep breath, and enjoy
"The solid rear axle forces both rear wheels to jump when only one goes over a bump. In theory, that should cause a rougher ride and flighty steering. Nope. Lots of reengineering of spring and shock absorber location and clever design, sizing and placement of suspension components seem to have all but eliminated the ills associated with a solid rear axle, at least during vigorous driving on public roads."
so there you have it, everyone let out a deeeeep breath, and enjoy
10/1/04, 07:26 AM
#36
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Originally posted by rhumb@September 30, 2004, 3:43 PM
Seems to comport with some other early reviews/observations. Live(ly) axle is an unfortunate cost-cutting step that only the hard core drag racers and penny pinchers will love.
Seems to comport with some other early reviews/observations. Live(ly) axle is an unfortunate cost-cutting step that only the hard core drag racers and penny pinchers will love.
V6
V8 GT
SE - some with IRS, some not
SVT - IRS
There are those like me that would love to have the GT, but I am waiting to buy the SVT because I know it will have all the goodies of the GT PLUS the SVT. I am willing to pay more for the upgraded features. That is how the manufacturing game is played. Eventually we may see migration of other "premium" offerings, but the IRS will always be reserved for the top models.
If Ford stuffed the IRS into the GT, why would anyone want to buy the SE or SVT versions? More HP ?? LEss price?? Nope ..don't think so.
These people need to get off the IRS subject. It was done purposefully, oh by the way you get the added cost benefit.
Keep up the good work Ford!!
10/1/04, 08:38 AM
#37
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I had a g35 6mt...it was a sweet looking car...dark blue on black leather w/nav.
But you are either a fan of american muscle or you are not. I am and I just could never get used to the fact that I was paying on a 38k loan for a v6...I thought I would but I did not. The engine gets the job done but it's just not fun.
That and there there were at lot of things about that car that stink that you'll never hear about in the mags...silver painted interior parts that scratch easily, too heavy to hangle that great, very notchy shifter, uncomfortable seat (lower bolsters too close), bose radio blows...lots of little things that you should'nt have to put up with on such a pricey car.
Bottom line is the looks of car are incredible but it it just doesn't drive like a kick-hiney sports car.
I ended up selling mine and I'm currently doing "probe pennance" as I save for my '05 stang...
But you are either a fan of american muscle or you are not. I am and I just could never get used to the fact that I was paying on a 38k loan for a v6...I thought I would but I did not. The engine gets the job done but it's just not fun.
That and there there were at lot of things about that car that stink that you'll never hear about in the mags...silver painted interior parts that scratch easily, too heavy to hangle that great, very notchy shifter, uncomfortable seat (lower bolsters too close), bose radio blows...lots of little things that you should'nt have to put up with on such a pricey car.
Bottom line is the looks of car are incredible but it it just doesn't drive like a kick-hiney sports car.
I ended up selling mine and I'm currently doing "probe pennance" as I save for my '05 stang...
10/1/04, 09:21 AM
#39
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I agree!! Once you have driven this car you will love it!!
As far as the IRS: it was suppose to go into the original '05 mustang, but was replaced 2 years ago by Ford Management for cost reasons. It saved Ford $100 / car to go to the SRA (solid rear axle). The only problem was that Ford took a penalty for weight when they went ot SRA
As far as the IRS: it was suppose to go into the original '05 mustang, but was replaced 2 years ago by Ford Management for cost reasons. It saved Ford $100 / car to go to the SRA (solid rear axle). The only problem was that Ford took a penalty for weight when they went ot SRA
10/1/04, 09:26 AM
#40
I still don't know why they insist on comparing the Mustang to the Z350. They are in a totally different class. That's like comparing a chevette to a camero "The chevette's power, although a little more than a turtle, lacked the superior handling of the camero"