Well I finally get the car of my dreams, a retro 2006 Mustang GT, and then Ford changes the car!
First of all I have no regrets about getting my 2006 GT. I've liked the looks for years now and it is distinguishable as a true Mustang!
I have no problem with the 300 HP 4.6 engine or that throaty exhaust note either. At my age I'm no longer a boy racer but I do want performance, a measure of economy and all of the bells and whistles that go along with the Premium Leather interior.
That being said, I'm not going to complain about the new Mustang. Every time that Ford has to remodel the Mustang it has a huge challenge on it's hands. They don't want to alienate the Mustang faithful who are happy with their current Mustangs but they have to continually evolve the car or risk losing future customers and enthusiasts. In this case Ford took the huge leap of faith and designed the Mustang for a world wide market. They replaced the solid rear end with an independent rear suspension. They have kept the 305 HP V6 engine and boosted the power on the 5.0 Coyote engine. To make the car more acceptable to overseas drivers Ford is offering a 2.3 liter 305 HP 300 lb. ft. of torque Ecoboost 4 cylinder engine as an option. This new engine will fit between the base V6 and the high performance V8 engines to offer customers higher fuel economy with an amazing amount of power. It's too early to comment on how successful this new engine will be received and perform but I'm sure that it has been well tested if Ford is willing to place it in their new Mustang.
The new shape again is evolutionary as it is smaller and lighter than the current models and the styling, while looking more like a European sports car, still is easily recognizable as a Mustang. The face now takes on the Ford Corporate look which Ford must consider is important to them. The interior benefits from better materials and design to provide a comfortable and sporty environment for the driver. The toggle switches go back to the sports cars of the 60's but look right at home in this new package.
While we as Mustang enthusiasts will all have our own opinions on this latest restyling it is important to remember that Ford now has direct competition from the Camaro and the Dodge Challenger. Unit sales are important in keeping the Mustang alive. The brand is well established and Ford feels it is ready for a global market. Let's concentrate on the positives. The new Mustang still resembles a Mustang, has rear wheel drive, the power trains have been upgraded, the car now has an independent rear suspension for better handling and the Mustang is prepared to sell in large enough numbers to insure it's continued success. All in all that's not too bad for the 50th year anniversary model.
The Red Baron
MCOM Treasurer-Historian