V6 or V8 - help me decide
#21
That's the way I ended up going . . . but I agree, you should test drive both then decide.
I was strongly considering the new V6 for the exact same reasons as you. I did test drive a 2011 V6 (auto) and it was real nice, but just didn't have the low-end torque and sound of the V8. Also on my short test drive, according to the computer, the V6 didn't get any better mileage than the 2010 V8 that I test drove at the same time.
When I did my ****-ytical comparison, the 2010 GT actually came out lower cost than a 2011 V6 (comparable options) even when I figured in gas cost . . . I bought one slightly used; but you can get some real good deals right now.
As far as gas mileage -- I'm not sure the new V6 will delivery what you are hoping for, and the difference between the V6 and V8 might not be as big as you think. I am getting about 26 MPG on my mixed highway/back roads commute, driving conservatively but with bursts of fun here and there (I love highway entrance ramps! ) . . . pure highway I have actually seen a little over 29 MPG (according to the computer) . . . you can probably get better than rating on the V6 too, but when you consider the real-world fuel economy the difference not might be as big as you think.
Also, don't underestimate the sound factor . . . before I got this car, I really didn't appreciate that part . . . but now I realize it's definitely worth a few extra gallons of gas to have that sound track!
I was strongly considering the new V6 for the exact same reasons as you. I did test drive a 2011 V6 (auto) and it was real nice, but just didn't have the low-end torque and sound of the V8. Also on my short test drive, according to the computer, the V6 didn't get any better mileage than the 2010 V8 that I test drove at the same time.
When I did my ****-ytical comparison, the 2010 GT actually came out lower cost than a 2011 V6 (comparable options) even when I figured in gas cost . . . I bought one slightly used; but you can get some real good deals right now.
As far as gas mileage -- I'm not sure the new V6 will delivery what you are hoping for, and the difference between the V6 and V8 might not be as big as you think. I am getting about 26 MPG on my mixed highway/back roads commute, driving conservatively but with bursts of fun here and there (I love highway entrance ramps! ) . . . pure highway I have actually seen a little over 29 MPG (according to the computer) . . . you can probably get better than rating on the V6 too, but when you consider the real-world fuel economy the difference not might be as big as you think.
Also, don't underestimate the sound factor . . . before I got this car, I really didn't appreciate that part . . . but now I realize it's definitely worth a few extra gallons of gas to have that sound track!
#23
I would go V-8, without thinking twice. Yeah the gas mileage isn't as great, but you can't beat the sound of a V-8. I've got a supercharged Thunderbird back home, it's a lot of fun but it's just not the same without the 8 cylinder growl. Now that I've got my Cobra I love the engine sound. I don't have to be stomping on the gas all the time to enjoy it, just cruising around and hearing the exhaust makes me happy. I'm able to get 22 mpg mixed city & highway, and that's 15 year old technology.
#24
If you're asking the question, that means you're on the fence.
If you're on the fence, get the V8, or at some point after your purchase - whether 1 week later or 5 years later - you will regret not getting the V8 in the first place.
You should definately test drive both, but go with the path of least regret - the V8. I don't know anyone who got the V8 and lamented that they should have stuck with the V6.
If you're on the fence, get the V8, or at some point after your purchase - whether 1 week later or 5 years later - you will regret not getting the V8 in the first place.
You should definately test drive both, but go with the path of least regret - the V8. I don't know anyone who got the V8 and lamented that they should have stuck with the V6.
I could not find a 2011 V6 6MT to save my life - all the dealers around here and the next city have only automatics. So I could not do a test drive.
Those that say get the 2010 V8 are forgetting its miserable 15/24 mpg. I am guessing on that basis the 2010 V8 is not really an option for you?
One other factor is that, for me, the insurance was about the same for the 2011 V6 or V8. But that may or may not be your case.
So I bought the V8, and I am happy. But you must decide for yourself. And then you must pay for it. Good luck.
#25
If you're really that worried about gas mileage y even get a stang? A Prius is for you. But damm if the MPG the 2011 V6 doesn't convince you considering the vehicle and performance that comes with it isn't enough, then I don't know what is. Me personally I think it's ludicrous to make gas mileage a top issue when considering a muscle/pony car. Just makes no sense. Kinda like saying you're top priority when looking into a Hybrid is it's quarter mile times.. No offense but I hope you see my point. Get the V8 and never look back.
#26
My 2008 4.6L all around mileage is 23.5, my hiway on cruise 65 w/downshift to 3rd passing bursts is 27. Hand calculation. At 4000' altitude. 87 octane. 3.73's.
With my Bullitt stored Nov - Apr, my 2008 winter utility 4 banger's all around mileage? 23 hand calculation. Freezing, snow & ice, slower driving.
I haven't read any V6 owner's actual "all around" hand calculated mileage figures so far, so I wouldn't let that 30 hiway go to your head just yet.
EPA site for '11 3.7L V6:
Manual
Regular Gasoline
19
City 19
22
Combined
29
Hwy Combined
29
Auto
Regular Gasoline
19
City
23
Combined
31
Hwy
Regular Gasoline
19
City
23
Combined
31
Hwy
The V6 is a nice car.
The V8 is a symphony. Including the 4.6L. At about the same all around mileage.
Last edited by cdynaco; 6/20/10 at 05:56 PM.
#27
Wow, I bet I'd really be having some fun if I got the MPG's down to 15 !!!!
#28
I totally agree. I was in the same boat, and could not decide. Shoot, I still love the look of the V6 Pony package. And the V8 is expensive. But you know what? Every time you turn that key, you'll hear the bark of the motor you bought. And for me, the starting bark of the 5.0 (altho over-muffled) is a sound I'll never tire of.
I could not find a 2011 V6 6MT to save my life - all the dealers around here and the next city have only automatics. So I could not do a test drive.
Those that say get the 2010 V8 are forgetting its miserable 15/24 mpg.I am guessing on that basis the 2010 V8 is not really an option for you?
One other factor is that, for me, the insurance was about the same for the 2011 V6 or V8. But that may or may not be your case.
So I bought the V8, and I am happy. But you must decide for yourself. And then you must pay for it. Good luck.
I could not find a 2011 V6 6MT to save my life - all the dealers around here and the next city have only automatics. So I could not do a test drive.
Those that say get the 2010 V8 are forgetting its miserable 15/24 mpg.I am guessing on that basis the 2010 V8 is not really an option for you?
One other factor is that, for me, the insurance was about the same for the 2011 V6 or V8. But that may or may not be your case.
So I bought the V8, and I am happy. But you must decide for yourself. And then you must pay for it. Good luck.
Dude I was thinking the same thing. How Bert got his numbers I'll never know but hey what do I know...
#30
Apologies to all 4.6-ers regarding my "miserable" gas mileage comment. I meant that in comparison to the 2011 V6's highway number of 31 (30 with the MT). Was not trying to disparage whatsoever. Sorry.
#31
no worries, no offense taken --
I only mention it because it is a consideration in the decision . . . and the V8 getting better-than-rated mileage makes a difference
I do think it would be fun to try to get the mileage down to 15 though, will have to try that sometime . . . with a "professional driver on a closed course" ;-)
I only mention it because it is a consideration in the decision . . . and the V8 getting better-than-rated mileage makes a difference
I do think it would be fun to try to get the mileage down to 15 though, will have to try that sometime . . . with a "professional driver on a closed course" ;-)
Last edited by Bert; 6/20/10 at 06:12 PM. Reason: more
#32
For a DD of course get V6 it's plenty fast but if you want my advice get the 3.31 rear with manual. It is a blast to drive. I guess half of these guys havent even drove a well equiped V6 . Take the extra money to get your girl out, maybe this can save you a divorce and make you save big.... Just kidding good luck
#34
You'll never regret buying a GT. With 2005-2010 V6s, you could have regretting getting them. The 2011 V6 changes the game though. I owned a V6 2007 and while I liked it, I wanted that V8. Now that I have the V8 and used to have the V6 and test drove the 2011 V6, I would actually be very happy with the new V6. But, it's all up to you. Test drive them both, weigh all the option differences. Remember, the first biggest difference is price. The V8 costs $7500 more than the V8 right off the bat at the base price. That's a big price difference.
#35
2007 GT 4.6 M5 3.55 - 19 mpg in town
2011 GT 5.0 M6 3.55 - 22 mpg in town
My best guess is the 2010 would get around 20 mpg in town.
Those are real world numbers for the V8. That assumes you dont run around 3 gears low all the time.
Ive had the 5.0 through 5 tanks primarily in town and the worst tank (when i was seating the rings) is 20 mpg.
My best guess is the 3.7L will get about 2-4 mpg better depending on conditions. You will tend to shift earlier in the 5.0 because of the extra torque which will make them closer in mpg in the real world. The EPA test requires the same speed for shifts regardless (Thats why we get skip shift).
2011 GT 5.0 M6 3.55 - 22 mpg in town
My best guess is the 2010 would get around 20 mpg in town.
Those are real world numbers for the V8. That assumes you dont run around 3 gears low all the time.
Ive had the 5.0 through 5 tanks primarily in town and the worst tank (when i was seating the rings) is 20 mpg.
My best guess is the 3.7L will get about 2-4 mpg better depending on conditions. You will tend to shift earlier in the 5.0 because of the extra torque which will make them closer in mpg in the real world. The EPA test requires the same speed for shifts regardless (Thats why we get skip shift).
#36
#37
The front ends are slightly different and you get more features with the GT (including HP). If you dont care for either get the v6. For me, the first opportunity of a 5.0 in years is too awesome to pass up.
#38
about 4.5 years ago, i was placed in a similar position with the s197 and i decided to get the 2005 V6. for the first 2 years i loved the car. then i got tired because i knew i could have afforded the GT and i wanted more torque. i ended up selling the car last year after owning her for 4 years, i was going to buy a 2008 bullitt. things changed at my work and i couldn't responsibly buy a new car, and i found out the body style was changing in 2010, so figured i'd wait. then i heard the coyote was coming out. now i'm waiting a few more months to pay off some more cards and then go to a 5.0. even though the new v6 is much more powerful, i want the torque from a v8 and the rumble.
#39
My friend got that "other" pony car in a v6. He has proceeded to put about 3 grand in it already to make it faster and sound better. A few more mods and he would have been able to go for the v8. I was going to get a v6 before I saw him do this. I realized that he already regretted getting a v6 and I should just get a GT and then I wouldn't have to buy a whole lot of aftermarket stuff to make it sound and perform better. I will just get it all right off the bat with the v8. Also, I can leave him in the dust anytime I want