Route 66

Big, powerful, bold and American. The first all-new state-of-the-art Mustang in 26 years, boasts more of everything -- power, style and sophistication. Power has always been a Mustang bragging right, and Ford does not disappoint for 2005.

The rear-drive base Mustang is equipped with a new, 90-degree single-overhead cam 4.0L V-6 with more horses and torque than the previously. The GT gets a 300 hp version of the 4.6L V-8, some 40 ponies more than the previous engine. Power is transmitted to the road via the standard five-speed manual gearbox -- a Tremec T-5 for the V-6 and a Tremec 3650 for the V-8.

For the first time, Ford's close-ratio five-speed automatic transmission will be available as a Mustang option. The wheelbase was extended some six inches over the previous model for better stance, balance and overall interior packaging.

On the road, the base Mustang is strong and solid -- from its above average handling and performance traits to the familiar growling exhaust note.

New from the ground up, the Mustang chassis uses a MacPherson front suspension with reverse "L" lower control arms, which delivers both comfort and control. At the rear, the Mustang employs new three-link suspension architecture with a lightweight tubular Panhard rod that provides precise control of the rear axle.

Inside the cabin, drivers will find familiar territory as Ford returns to a modern rendition of classic Mustang instrumentation.

The new Mustang interior raises the bar for sports car cabins with a symmetrical instrument panel, high-quality materials and precision craftsmanship. Taller drivers will feel very much at home with more headroom and shoulder room. The 50/50 split rear seat is a hospitable place for adults with more legroom and shoulder room in sculpted bucket seats.

The Mustang also features the industry's first color configurable instrument-panel lighting — giving Mustang owners the ability to mix and match lighting at the touch of a button to create more than 125 different color backgrounds to suit personality, mood, outfit or whim.

Safety features include dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes, remote keyless entry and side-impact door beams. GT adds four-wheel, anti-lock brakes, fog lights and traction control. Optional safety features include active anti-theft system and a wheel-locking kit.

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Ford Mustang starts from $18,785 for the Base coupe and $24,370 for the GT.

Quick Stats

Wheelbase: 107.1”; overall length: 187.6”; width: 73.8”; height: 54.4”

Engine: 4.0L V6 -- 210 hp at 5,300 rpm and 240 lbs-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm; 4.6L V8 -- 300 hp at 5,750 rpm and 320 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.

Transmission: Tremec T-5 five-speed manual, Ford 5R55S five-speed automatic.

Cargo capacity: 13.0 cu. ft. B) B)

MustangDan

Thanks for the post, not sure about "seat is a hospitable place for adults "

CelticNut

Maybe "vertically challenged" adults?

Great write up. I haven't seen too much in the way of negative press so far! Hope it stays that way. I'm still a little leary about getting a car that's been redesigned from the ground up. I've heard it's best to wait a year so any bugs can be worked out. On second thought, the heck with that! I want mine now.

Original Sin

Yup, great article, just like the LA Times one. Keep 'em comin, just makes the car that much more fun to own!!

bison

Not sure about the 90-degree V6 either...

RaGsHoCkEy88

thanks for the copy of the article

kevinv-6

hey thats good. and they didnt say that the interior looked "cheap" as other reviews have said!

bassinbc

90 degree v-6, I thought it was 60 degree v-6

rhumb

It is, which is probably a big reason its much smoother than the old 3.8 farm motor.

mach1fever

What about the optional side air bags...