Well, it looks like my deal on a left over '09 Bullitt has fallen through, oh well. I started looking at used '08-09 Bullits and found that you can get lightly used ones (less than 2,000 miles on the clock) in the mid 20's. I've also noticed that there are several lightly used (less than 2,000 mile) '07 Shelby GTs on Autotrader and EBay for about the same price (mid 20's). Has anyone driven both of these? I've owned an 05 GT (manual) and an '08 GT500. Loved the GT500 but found the ride somewhat harsh as a daily driver. Any thoughts on whether the Shelby GT or the Bullitt would make a better daily driver? Any guesses on which would hold its value better while I wait on the 2011-12 5.0 GT?

Thanks, Mitch

 

Try a '03 - '04 Cobra. I never knew how good and fun it was until I experienced a '06 GT, the Bullitt, and the GT500. I no longer have the GT but have the others which I love. I recently got a '04 Cobra and now it is my favorite to drive. Low mileage '03 - '04 Cobras are running low to mid $20s.



Note: I had a '04 Cobra bought new and sold in 2007. It's replacement was a GT500.

 

Tell us more. Why?

 

I agree with Bullitt! Go TERMINATOR!

 

I assume the question is directed to me so I will respond.

We, the Mustang enthusiasts, have been convinced mainly by Ford that the latest and newest Mustang models are always the best. Sure, there are improvements and upgrades with each progressive generation, more room, confort, design, ect. That is not entirely true. As a driver, Ford should perhaps use the '03 - '04 Cobras as a blueprint for performance Mustangs.

The Cobra is the best handling Mustang I've driven, combined with its power it provides confidence during fun times where the driver has a better response for the feel and grip of the road. IMO it needs no performance mods although I added a Borla catback since it is the exhaust note I like. Obviously it is not as roomy as the S197 model and the interior is not as modern. The compensation is the driving experience which is greatly assisted by the driver's seat which hugs and secures the driver in place. I guess over all control of the car is the best way to summarize it.

Size and weight are also factors. In comparing to the GT500, I can equal or beat myself with the Cobra under identical circumstances and conditions. That is not a knock on the GT500, it just happens to be my personal experience and not exactly the rule. It just might be the opposite for someone else.

 

If you thought the GT500 was harsh, you better get the Bullitt, because the FFRP suspension on the Shelby GT is more harsh than the GT500.

 

Don't get my wrong, I LOVED the GT500 but my once a week 90min one-way commute could get a little punishing at times. I wonder about the relative future value of the Shelby GT vs the Bullitt.

 

I had a 2004 Mach 1, with a similar interior to the Cobra.

IMO, it was one of the most uncomfortables cars we've ever had, along with our 01 GT convertible. The seat itself is OK, but for me, the seating position itself is waaaay too high. You feel like you're floating in the interior, which for me, hindered easy shifts and comfortable arm leaning. It felt more like a passenger car, and less like a sports car.

Conversely, the 2005+ was a breath of fresh air. I felt like I was finally sitting IN in the interior, not ON it.

 

I would never even consider a pre 05 Mustang. Drive one back to back to see what I mean. Its like light years ahead ... The S197 is.. Cheaper is not always better..

to the op- I would get a Bullitt.. no question

 

I would definitely get a Bulllitt over a SGT. I have nothing against SGT's for sure. But Black GT500 is right. The FRPP suspension on a SGT is more than a little harsh for a daily driver.

Plus I prefer the looks of the Bullitt.

 

Bullitt. I think the suspension was just better sorted with a much better ride/handling balance, especially for a street car. The engine performance is the same and the Bullitt has a nice exhaust note too. I think the Bullitt would be a much better value too -- considerations of dubious future collectible value aside.

Subjectively, I like the clean, classy and understated good looks of the Bullitt -- think the automotive equivalent of Steve McQueen in a simple black turtle neck and jeans -- that exudes quiet confidence rather than screaming "look at me" ego inflation.

 

My mom has a 08 Shelby GT and she loves it. Her car drives good handles good. I love the way it drives. Out of the Bullitt and the Shelby GT I would get the Shelby GT. I like the look of the Bullitt and the Shelby GT. I just like the Shelby look alittle better and it handes better than the Bullitt. The bullitt comes with 3.73 gears and the Shelby GT comes with 3.55's stock. If you get a Bullitt I would change the CAI. They are a lot better ones out there. The Shelby GT has a FRPP or Steeda 90mm mas air CAI stock. I would order the Steeda elbow and install in on the Shelby GT and then you have one of the best CAI on the market. Thats my 2 cents worths anyhow.

As far as the 03-04 Cobra. I like them better than either one of the Bullitts or the Shelby GT as far as power. I like the new models better as far as driving them. If you want something fast for cheap get the 03-04 Cobra. I got my 08 GT over a 03 Cobra conv when I bought it. When I drive the car I'm glad I got it over the 03 Cobra. When I race a 03-04 Cobra or something that outruns me I wish I would have got the 03 Cobra. It would be faster right now for the same money.