tifo

After watching a video comparing the handling of a 2011 Mustang GT to a BMW M3, I am baffled about what Ford has done to improve the handling by that much. Race driver Randy Pobst even said the 2011 Mustang GT is a better balanced car than the BMW M3 :
So here's the question I've been asking myself for weeks:

Why is the 2013 Mustang GT such a better balanced and better handling car compared to a 2007 Mustang GT when it has the same chassis, wheelbase, dimensions, weight, and the same MacPherson struts?

Car and Driver tested the 2007 Mustang GT they gave it a roadholding skidpad rating: 0.89g

Motortrend tested the 2013 Mustang GT they gave it a roadholding skidpad rating: 0.94g

Even with the Ford Racing Handling Pack installed on my 2007 Mustang GT (with sway bars, strut tower brace, and springs that lower the car by 1.5 inches) I cannot achieve a rating of .94g skidpad.

What has Ford done to improve the handling that much? Have the PZero Nero Summer Tires made that much of an impact on handling?
Any thoughts?

Imatk

I'm totally guessing here, but I would imagine it has both to do with the tires (which do make a huge difference) and the stability control that has been improved on the newer model.

Although I don't know if the stability control was engaged in their tests or not so that might not be a factor at all.

It is interesting though that they've managed to increase the handling on the newer models with a very similar setup.

Scrape

I was wondering the same thing for a long long time. I am sure its more in suspension bushings, springs, shocks and swaybars.

Cusp

So if one were to install stock springs, shocks, sway bars from a 2011 + into their 2010 - car the handling should be similar?

JerryG2163

People swear by some of the kits out there...roush, steeda, griggs. I would guess ford has inched closer to those styles over the years slowly making improvements YoY, and over a large gap of years, it adds up to significant changes.

StangMahn

the new tech that's in the car, different springs (and spring rates) can make a huge difference, but the biggest difference is going to be in the tire itself. A set of slicks (not saying they used them, just as an example) could take 5+ seconds off a lap compared to a street tire.

Tony Alonso

In addition to the improvements from retuned suspension and sticky summer tires, the chassis was stiffened and the steering feel in the 2010 was tightened. The non Track Pack stock set-up is a noticeable change for the better when I compare my 2010 GT with my prior 2007 GT.