Ford used the recent Los Angeles motor show to launch the next generation of the iconic Ford Mustang, which will be available in 2011. Also making its debut was the Mustang’s new 305bhp V6 power plant and the whole car is being brought bang up to date, with more performance, better fuel efficiency and improved suspension. The Mustang’s main enemy, the equally iconic Chevy Camaro, no longer has an advantage!
The new V6 engine replaces the somewhat weak version found in the previous model, which despite its big 4.0-litre size, only managed to produce a miserly 210bhp and 325Nm of torque. The engine was certainly due an upgrade, having been around since the 1970′s.
The new Mustang gets a 3.7-litre V6 incorporating variable valve timing which belts out a far more respectable 305bhp and 380Nm. By comparison, the competing Chevy Camaro has a 3.6-litre V6 offering 304bhp.
The new engine is also much more economical than the old, with highway driving (America uses Highway and returning almost 12% better mpg – 34.8 versus 31.2mpg in the outgoing Mustang. This is also thanks to the inclusion of new 6-speed transmission available as manual or automatic.
To combat the notion that American cars struggle with the corners, Ford are offering a performance package that uprates the suspension and brakes to the Mustang GT’s standard, and adds 19″ wheels and vehicle stability control.
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