A just released Bloomberg news poll shows that Ford is the most popular automaker in America. 77% of those surveyed had a favorable impression of Ford. I wonder how much higher that number would be if those surveyed had driven the new 2011 Mustang before they answered the questions.
As part of Ford's plan to significantly boost fuel economy while improving drivability across all products, the 2011 Mustang received a couple of new engines. These new engines deliver more. More horsepower, more torque, more miles per gallon and more smiles per gallon. Fuel economy has been improved by 8% on the V-8 while HP is up 31% and V-6 Horsepower is up 45% while fuel economy is up 11%. Last month we drove the new F-Series Super Duty and fuel economy was improved 18% with double digit improvements in horsepower and torque. However, numbers alone don’t tell the whole story as our drive along Pacific Coast Highway with several runs through an autocross course bear out.
When invited to drive the Mustangs with the new engines I expected to find the same cars with updated power plants. I was surprised to find numerous enhancements went with the new engines one year after a significant refreshing.
Economic trickle-down is where the government gives big tax breaks to the wealthy hoping some of that money makes it down to the rest of us. 2011 Mustang trickle-down means Shelby GT500 parts make it to the GT and GT parts make it to the V-6. The V-6 even gets Shelby GT500 lower control arms as well as GT front and rear brake calipers and a host of other suspension and handling parts.
The pre-drive presentation provided by engineering and marketing folks went over all the enhancements and improvements and emphasized how valuable the input is from the legions of Mustang loyal such as the Mustang Club of America. To show their appreciation for the MCA they introduced us to the “Mustang Club of America Special Edition” which includes unique grille, wheels, badges and many other unique features. Another special edition is the “California Special” which has unique grille, side scoops, spoiler and no less than ten other unique features. I am sure that there is information overload at times as everyone has an opinion as to the emotive qualities of Mustang; however, the presenters seem to take it all in stride and do their best to keep the Mustang “Fast, Fun and Affordable”.
The actual test drive began at the Marina Del Ray near Los Angeles then up Pacific Coast Hwy to Port Hueneme for the autocross then through canyon after canyon back to Marina del Rey for lunch then back up Pac Coast Hwy to Malibu Canyon Rd, to Cold Canyon Rd, Mulholland Hwy, Topanga Canyon then back down CA-1 to Marina del Ray. The course was chosen to give us a chance to see how these new engines/transmissions/brakes/suspensions worked together to create a unique driving experience.
The autocross was way too much fun as we ran flat-out through strategically placed cones for bragging rights to lowest displayed time on the prominently positioned timing clock. My first run had the AdvanceTrac® with Electronic Stability Control® turned off. Not too impressive as I was out of control on a couple turns wasting valuable time. My next run had the system turned on and dropped a full 3 seconds. By the end of the day I dropped more time and really enjoyed what the new Mustang could do. I hadn’t raced a Mustang through the cones since I sold my 2001 Cobra and forgot just how much fun this is. There was a comparably equipped competitive set vehicle at the track to run through the cones so as to give a back-to-back comparison. It felt heavy and noisy in a bad way plus noticeably slower than the Mustang.
While we didn’t drive a 2011 Shelby GT500 on this trip here are some notable new features:
• Shelby GT500 horsepower has been increased to 550 HP 510 ft.-lb. torque while fuel economy has improved enough to eliminate the gas-guzzler tax.
• Front/rear weight distribution has been moved closer to the ideal 50/50 with the loss of 102 pounds of engine weight by using an all-aluminum block that incorporates a special plasma-coating technology for wear-resistance and durability.
• The addition of Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) improves steering feel and has been dialed in to perceived customer preference.
The Mustang is the number one customized car of all time and their owners are passionate about their rides. This latest offering is great fun and will not disappoint those looking for a unique driving experience. While the V-6 was fun and looked good with its new dual exhaust there is nothing like the sound and feel of a properly tuned V-8. Prices start at $22,995 for the V6 and $30,495 for the V-8.
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