Not very long but another hands on...

CALGARY -- The Ford Mustang has been around for 40 years, and has essentially remained a two-door four-seater sports car. Thus it was very important that Ford get this latest generation Mustang "right."

Judging by the vehicle itself and the reaction of other drivers, Ford's done the job.

In early September, I was invited to take a pre-production 2005 V8 Mustang for a quick spin.

The car was loaned to me by Peter Jansen, Mustang brand manager for the Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd.

On major highways the Mustang offered a very tight and controlled ride. The car handled smoothly and proved responsive with no twitches or quirks when pushed hard in corners.

Others in the auto industry are just rediscovering rear-wheel drive, but the Mustang never wavered from the rear-drive platform. For 2005, the Mustang is equipped with ABS and four-wheel traction control.

These systems do a commendable job of ensuring power meets the road, regardless of driving conditions.

But Ford appreciates the fact that some Mustang owners will want to have a little fun. The traction control system is able to sense if wheel slippage is desirable -- a little squeal and burnout action, if you will -- and allows the tires to spin.

Power from the three-valve-per-cylinder V8 is immediate and linear.

The steady rumble from the tailpipe is distinct, but in terms of road noise the cabin of the Mustang is by far one of the quietest.