Love it or hate it, few cars are as iconic as the Ford Mustang. From it’s designation as one of the first “pony cars” in the muscle car era of the 1960’s, to it’s constant change in appearance and function throughout the following forty years, the Mustang is a vehicle which has always been in it for the long haul. However, despite the somewhat stagnant design that had gripped the vehicle throughout most of the 1990’s and the early 2000 models, the recent redesign has definitely marked the point of progression. While it may not be a point that all are comfortable with, it is certainly a change nonetheless. Perhaps this change is best reflected in the 2007 GT V8,
Perhaps it is the outward appearance of the Mustang which has caused so much controversy in recent years. The design harkens back to the days of the early 1970 GT’s, and those seeking a modern car to replicate that era will not be disappointed, at least no with the exterior. The stance of the Mustang is wide and it looks to be a powerful car. However, as good as it looks, it’s just hard to shake the idea that the car has just a little too much body, it seems as though it should be a little lighter and perhaps look just a little bit more aggressive. However, with the lower stance of the 2007 model, and an overall very attractive exterior design, the Mustang does not disappoint on visuals, and that is perhaps something rare for a Ford.
While the outside is flashy and can be said to remind one of the days of the classic Mustang, the same sadly cannot be said for the interior. Although the inside of the vehicle doesn’t offer too much flash or even that many interesting features, it is very functional. Every control that the driver needs is right in place, and although the car is somewhat sparse inside, it is easy to see that high quality materials were used for it’s construction, no complains on interior quality here, just perhaps on interior design and a little bit lacking on the “fun” factor. The only other factor that brings down the interior score is the fact that aside from the front seats, there really is no interior. Although the car comes with beautiful and comfortable leather seats, it would be incredibly difficult for any passenger in the back seat to ever experience that. This is certainly a strange thing on a car that is so large and weighs so much. Keep in mind that the Pontiac GTO clocks in with a lower weight and still offers a comfortable back seat to passengers. However, the overall interior quality is good, and it probably unlikely that the Mustang would ever be considered for a family car anyway.
Regardless of what the inside looks like, there is only one single reason that a person would buy a Mustang GT V8, for the high performance motor and legendary status. However, something seems to be missing from the V8, as well as the power that should be there. Yes, the Mustang is quick, but with a 4.6 liter eight cylinder engine it should be. Still though, quick is not the same as fast, and although the Mustang’s engine offers enough power to zip around, it take some serious effort to get anything close to performance out of the vehicle. All in all, the eight cylinder engine just seems a bit underpowered, and even the exhaust tone seems wimpy at times. Don’t expect the kind of power that throws the driver back into the seat, and definitely don’t expect the muscle car feel of old, for those days are apparently long gone for Ford engines.
While the engine may not be the greatest thing in the world, the car is a fun driver. Despite the very heavy weight (over 4,000 pounds) the Mustang still manages to slide around corners and grip the road with the best of them. Sadly though, compared to smaller, imported sports cars such as the Acura RSX and Nissan 350Z, handling is just not what it should be. Having driven both cars, I can honestly say that the 350Z’s 3.5 liter V6 and incredible suspension are enough to show up the GT’s V8 even on it’s best day. Still though, the Mustang was never designed to be a track car, and while that was certainly a factor for the Z, there are better ways to use a Mustang than a simple 0-60 test or a windy road.
Simply put, the Mustang is a car meant for fun driving, not to be taken too seriously, and not to be used as a performance monster. The car runs well, handles decently, and offers a decent amount of power as long as the driver is not expecting too much from the car. The interior is functional, and the outside is certainly impressive. However, when coupled with the vehicles $32,000 price tag, and the poor gas mileage, along with the overall declining quality of Ford automobiles, perhaps the Mustang should not be the first choice on your list for a fun, weekend sports car.
