Acting on a tip from either this forum or Stangnet (I forget which), I popped into Campbell Ford, a big local dealer which is an SVT outlet and fairly well regarded by enthusiasts in Ottawa. They had 5 or 6 GT's on the lot and one in the showroom. As soon as I asked if any GT's were available for test drives, the sales guy just pointed to the row of GT's outside and said "what colour would you like?"

So off we went. To me, power feels pretty healthy, shifter is nice, handling is decent but definitely on the soft side for me- I now understand some of the comments made by people who did the group comparison with a 350Z, RX-8, etc. Body roll is well checked but the damping is just plain soft. Ride seems pretty decent, maybe a hint of the live axle but no drastic shakes or squirming. Fit and finish and body rigidity seem very good, Seats are very comfortable for an American car. Steering and brakes are both a bit vague, although acceptably quick and balanced (steering). Brakes could honestly have a bit more bite. I think aftermarket pads will be a welcome addition, and Baer might end up doing well by this chassis B)

I'd really have to get more seat time to be able to give more intelligent commentary than the little bits above. I will say that the dealer seems great- no weasling whatsoever. They are selling based on MSRP, no 'adjustment' BS, and my guy even indicated they will deal a bit.

 

finaly some news on ottawa thanks man

 

I've had mine for 2 days and I have to agree about the brakes. The car takes off like a bat out of heck though. but stopping feels tentative. Beat an M3 last night, but we had to ease back at 110 klms. Ricers loved the car up on Eglington ave. when I gave them a flash of torque. As i rolled up tp the crowd all I heard was "oh my god!" and and when I blew by after going through the drive-thru "heck yeahhhh!".This car definitely has universal appeal.

 

Amazing to hear the reaction this car is getting. I can't wait to get mine!

 

Car & Driver said the exact same thing about the brakes. Think new/better pads will fix the problem?

 

It's usually a cheap and effective way to improve braking. If that's not enough you need to deal with the mechanical side as opposed to the friction side (ie better calipers or more leverage from a larger m/c).

You shouldn't necessarily need to have larger rotors, althougf of course Baer and other companies will want to sell them to you when you're ready to dish out coin for better brakes.