When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
So, here's my story.....short version.
I had a 2005 Mustang GT Torch Red that I sold in 2021. I traded it in for a 2017 Focus ST. I guess the whole point of me selling it was a few factors. 1) - I experienced that fuel filling issue. It limited me to using one specific gas station that had older/slower pumps. and 2) - winter time. I am an American living in Sweden. The winters are a little long and roads are sometimes slippery. I had fitted studded snow tires 18" and a couple of sand bags for the trunk. It worked okay, just had to be careful with the throttle and acceleration. And 3) parts - hard to get Mustang parts and expensive to ship from the US.
So I traded it in for Focus ST, an all-year round car with front wheel drive. It was very nimble and quick. But didn't have that V8 rumble that a mustang has. I regretted that decision almost immediately. Less than a week after trading in my Mustang, I called the dealer asking him if he wanted to trade back....He just laughed at me He said that I'll get used to the Focus ST, give it time.
Well, I never really bonded with the Focus ST. I modded it, chipped it, and other stuff, but it was the "rebound car".
BUT today, I purchased my new Mustang GT. It's gorgeous. 2017, Race Red, Power Pack 2. All the bells and whistles, plus it's a world wide supported vehicle - no parts issues (I hope). It's almost in unbelievable the condition of the car. One previous owner who owned a DETAILING SHOP!!! Go Figure! Ceramic coated (wheels, too). Low miles 12k. And they are basically giving me what I paid for he Focus in trade! I'm not a religious person, but I think someone flipped a switch in my favor today.
I pick it up next week....after another ceramic coating! It's a 5 hour drive, unfortunately. Long going there with the ST, but exciting on the way back.
I drove a 2006 for 15 years; it was a great ride. If you enjoyed the S197, you are going to really, really like the S550.
When it is slippery, put her in rain/snow driving mode. Seriously. With the Coyote engine, you'll want to.
Does the rain/snow mode really help that much?
this is the most powerful engine that I have driven, and I'm kinda wondering how responsive the lower gears are. In snow, should I just plan on starting in 2nd gear??
Gotta Have it Green Fanatic Official TMS Travel Guide
Joined: December 17, 2012
Posts: 2,558
Likes: 1,358
From: Western NC
Nice purchase!! We wish you the best. I will also warn about the power to the rear wheels. I drove a 2007 GT/CS for well over 10 years and my '14 GT with the Coyote is quite a different animal. Must be careful in the wet. If tires are due by chance, don't skimp and get the best! It will be worth it.
Nice purchase!! We wish you the best. I will also warn about the power to the rear wheels. I drove a 2007 GT/CS for well over 10 years and my '14 GT with the Coyote is quite a different animal. Must be careful in the wet. If tires are due by chance, don't skimp and get the best! It will be worth it.
Does the rain/snow mode really help that much?
this is the most powerful engine that I have driven, and I'm kinda wondering how responsive the lower gears are. In snow, should I just plan on starting in 2nd gear??
Not much snow here in Virginia, but if it was snowing, I'd start in 2nd. I have found, in wet conditions, that just moderate throttle from stop can make the back end kick out a little. Once it's wet, I grumble internally a little - but I switch to rain/snow mode. I look at it this way - it means you'll enjoy Sport+ mode that much more when things dry out again.
Of course, winter tires may make a difference too. I run all-season tires.
SUPERCHARGED RED ROCKET ------------------Master-Moderator
Joined: May 11, 2006
Posts: 10,645
Likes: 2,512
From: Carnegie, PA
In regards to the digital speedometer, also read your owner's manual which should provide more in-depth instructions to follow... In the meantime, congrats once again and thanks for sharing an image of your "17" RaceRed GT, as she's absolutely stunning
Can't help with the digital speedo, but... Congrats on the new ride!!! Awesome looking, very sharp. From the photos it seems to be in fantastic shape. Nice find. Welcome back to being in a Mustang!
Last edited by shaneyusa; Apr 28, 2023 at 02:27 AM.
He said that I'll get used to the Focus ST, give it time.
