Ford Mustang GTR 40th Anniversary Concept
At the 2004 North American International Auto Show, Ford unveiled the completely redesigned Mustang (code named "S-197"), which featured exterior styling inspired by 1960s Mustangs and was based on an all-new D2C platform. Senior Vice President of Design J Mays referred to the car's aesthetic as "retro-futurism." The new Mustang contained a 210 hp (156 kW) Ford Cologne V6 engine as the base model and a 300 hp (224 kW) 4.6 L 3-valve Modular V8 with variable valve timing for the GT. Reports have suggested that both motors are underrated, with Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords registering a V6 automatic at 182 rwhp (equivalent to about 235 hp at the flywheel) and 5.0 Mustangs and Super Fords registering a new GT at 287 rwhp and 305 rwtq (equivalent to around 340 horsepower and 360 lb.ft of torque at the flywheel). This offers enough power to propel the new GT's through the 1/4 mile in the lower 13-second bracket with some good shifting, while still retaining the traditional and reliable live rear axle. The Mustang also enjoys increased structural rigidity, better build quality, and improved handling and ride, all thanks to modern production facilities and computer aided design. An interesting feature exclusive to the Mustang was the option of changeable color gauges.
Ford launched the Mustang convertible shortly after its NAIAS debut, available with either the V6 or V8 engine. The addition of the convertible was designed to deliver a more rigid body structure while maintaining a low weight. The convenient z-fold top gives it a neat appearance when the top is lowered.
Sales of the Mustang have been markedly successful, with it estimated that around half of all "sports" cars sold in the United States being Mustangs. Furthermore, for the 2006 model year a new "Pony Package" was offered for the V6 model, which included Bullitt-style wheels, wider tires, unique grille treatment with road lamps, rear deck spoiler, special door striping and special emblems. There is also considerable aftermarket support for the Mustang, with Carroll Shelby even building V6 models with Paxton Superchargers that are rated at 350 hp.
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