How Will a New Lighter Mustang Affect the American Icon?

Sure, we know that theoretically, a lighter body could likely substantially improve the performance of the car especially when it comes to speed and cornering – if the new Mustang is packed with the kind of power we expect.

Then, there’s that inescapable MPG factor. Not only is that driving the development of the new Mustang’s engine line-up, but it’s also influencing the overall design of the vehicle as Ford pushes to give the pony car more global appeal.

Still, with the current GT coupe weighing around 3,500 pounds—roughly 360 pounds less than the Chevrolet Camaro SS and more than 500 pounds lighter than a Dodge Challenger R/T—there is the question of whether or not the Mustang will lose some of that toughness that has defined American muscle cars.

According to numerous reports, the 2015 Ford Mustang is expected to weigh almost 400 pounds less than the current model.

The bulk of that weight reduction is expected to be achieved through the use of lightweight materials such as aluminum and a smaller body, which will reportedly measure 15 inches shorter than the current car as well as being 6.5 inches narrower, according to an Edmunds report.

After all, we’ve come to expect a different experience from things as simple as even opening the door of a Mustang when compared to rival imports in the segment – and if the 2015 Mustang doesn’t live up to those simple expectations you have to wonder what kind of impact the weight reduction will have on the car’s overall appeal.

What are your thoughts? Do you think a much lighter Mustang will have a negative or positive effect on the pony car?