Fifth-generation Ford Mustang

Infobox Automobile generation
name=Fifth generation


production=2005–present
body_style=2-door convertible
2-door coupe
platform=Ford D2C platform
wheelbase= Auto in|107.1|0
layout=FR layout
length= Auto in|187.6|0
width= Auto in|74|0
height= Auto in|54.5|0
assembly=Flat Rock, Michigan
weight=V6 coupe MT/AT:
convert|3350|lb|kg|0|abbr=on/convert|3420|lb|kg|0|abbr=on
V6 convertible MT/AT:
convert|3475|lb|kg|0|abbr=on/convert|3555|lb|kg|0|abbr=on
V8 coupe MT/AT:
convert|3480|lb|kg|0|abbr=on/convert|3525|lb|kg|0|abbr=on
V8 convertible MT/AT:
convert|3610|lb|kg|0|abbr=on/convert|3655|lb|kg|0|abbr=on
GT500 coupe:
convert|3920|lb|kg|0|abbr=on
GT500 convertible:
convert|4040|lb|kg|0|abbr=on
fuel_capacity=Convert|16|usgal|L impgal|1|abbr=on
engine=4.0 L "Cologne" V6
4.6 L "Modular" V8
5.4 L "Triton" supercharged V8
transmission=5-speed manual (T-5, TR-3650)
6-speed manual (TR-6060)
5-speed automatic (5R55S)
designer=Sid RamnaraceAt the 2004 North American International Auto Show, Ford introduced a completely redesigned Mustang which was codenamed "S-197" and based on an all-new D2C platform for the 2005 model year. Developed under the direction of Chief Engineer Hau Thai-Tang and exterior styling designer Sid Ramnarace, the fifth generation Mustang draws inspiration from Mustangs of the 1960s, notably the 1967-68 models. It was this redesigned aesthetic that inspired Ford's Senior Vice President of Design, J Mays, to call it "retro-futurism." The 2005 Mustang's unique retro coupe styling complements its muscle car status with an approximate weight-to-power ratio of 11.5:1 in GT form. The current Mustangs are manufactured at the AutoAlliance International plant in Flat Rock, Michigan.

Mustang

The 2005+ base Mustang is powered by Ford's cast iron block 4.0L Cologne SOHC V6, replacing the 3.8L Essex OHV V6 used in 2004 and older models. It produces 210hp (157kW) @ 5300RPM and 240lb-ft (325Nm) of torque @ 3500RPM and is mated to a standard Tremec T-5 5-speed manual transmission with Ford's 5R55S 5-speed automatic transmission available as an option. A 3.31:1 final drive ratio is standard with either transmission. Though criticized for a lack of refinement, the standard V6 powertrain is capable of delivering competitive performance. In a [http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/convertibles/112_0608_2006_ford_mustang_convertible/index.html comparison test] with a Pontiac G6 Convertible conducted by Motor Trend magazine, a Mustang V6 Convertible equipped with an automatic transmission was able to accelerate from zero to 60 MPH in 7.3 seconds; 1.4 seconds better than its competitor. [Brown, Greg N. "Head To Head: 2006 Ford Mustang Convertible Vs. 2006 Pontiac G6 Convertible." "Motor Trend" 2006. ]

All models of the current Mustang make use of an independent MacPherson-strut front suspension with reverse "L" lower control arms. The rear suspension utilizes a new three-link system with a Panhard Rod which controls the vertical and lateral movements of the axle. [Ford Motor Company. Ford Media. "2005 Mustang Specifications". 2005. http://media.ford.com/products/presskit_display.cfm?vehicle_id=1052&press_section_id=398&make_id=92] This live axle rear suspension provides the benefits of reduced cost and weight over heavier, more expensive independent rear suspensions. In spite of this, Ford has drawn heavy criticism from the automotive journalism community for the decision to equip the current Mustang with the live axle system. At a press conference, Ford stated that to include a independent rear suspension would have added $5,000 to the showroom price of the car.

Some of the standard features that the 2005 Mustang launched with include power windows, dual power mirrors, power door locks with remote keyless entry, front air bags, AM/FM stereo with CD player, 16-inch painted alluminum wheels, and larger brake discs than the previous generation Mustang with twin-piston calipers in the front. Some of the options available included Ford's MyColor (a color-configurable instrument cluster available as part of the Interior Upgrade Package), brushed aluminum panels (also part of the Interior Upgrade Package), Ford's Shaker 500 (500 watt peak output) or Shaker 1000 (1000 watt peak output) premium audio system with a 6-disc MP3-compatible CD changer, leather seating surfaces, a six-way power adjustable driver seat, and a four-channel anti-lock brake system with traction control (standard on GT models). [Ford Motor Company. Ford Media. "2005 Mustang". 2005. http://media.ford.com/products/presskit_display.cfm?vehicle_id=1052&press_subsection_id=421&make_id=92]

In the following models years, additions and/or modifications to the Mustang's standard features and options list have occurred. Among these were the Pony Package (2006; see below), a DVD-based GPS navigation system made by Pioneer (2007, late availability), a power passenger seat (2007), heated seats (2007), Sirius satellite radio (2007), standard side airbags (2008), HID headlamps (2008), and a glass roof option (2009; see Additional Information), in addition to a variety of new wheel styles and exterior paint colors.

Pony Package

The Pony Package for the V6 Mustang became available starting in 2006. This option includes an upgraded suspension derived from the Mustang GT, 17-inch wheels with wider tires (originally only available on the GT), a unique grille design with fog lamps, a rear deck spoiler, and unique door striping and emblems. [Ford Motor Company. Ford Media. "2006 Mustang". 2006. http://media.ford.com/products/model.cfm?vehicle_id=1285]

Mustang GT

The Mustang GT features an award-winning, all-aluminum 4.6L 3-valve SOHC Modular V8 with variable camshaft timing and a more rugged Tremec TR-3650 transmission. The engine produces 300hp (224kW) @ 5750RPM and 320lb-ft (433Nm) of torque @ 4500RPM. The GT model is capable of performing a quarter-mile test in 13.5 seconds, with acceleration from zero to 60 MPH in 4.9 seconds.cite web |url=http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=7&article_id=2041&page_number=3 |title=Mustang Stampede! |accessdate=2007-01-08 |last=Kott |first=Douglas |year=2005 |month=April |format=HTML |publisher=Road & Track |language=English] The current Mustang GT also comes equipped with a limited slip differential complete with the same carbon-fiber clutch discs used in the 2003 to 2004 SVT Cobra and the 2007 Shelby GT500. The differential is designed for the 31-spline axles and the convert|8.8|in|mm|sing=on ring gear. The final drive ratio of Mustang GTs with a manual transmission is 3.55:1 while automatic transmission-equipped models receive a less aggressive 3.31:1 ratio.

The Mustang GT builds on the base Mustang's standard features. In addition to its higher performance powertrain, the Mustang GT features a stiffer, better handling version of the standard suspension, larger 12.4-inch front brake discs (versus the 11.4-inch discs used on V6 Mustangs), standard four-channel ABS with traction control, a two-piece aluminum drive shaft, a stainless steel dual exhaust, standard grille-mounted fog lights, and 17-inch wheels with optional 18-inch wheels.

GT California Special

In 2007, Ford introduced the GT California Special (GT/CS) package, hearkening back to the original 1968 California Special Mustang. The package adds a non-functional hood and side scoops, bright rolled exhaust tips, unique vinyl striping, and an engine cover featuring the pony emblem. The GT/CS also includes a different front fascia and rear valance with diffuser, similar to those found on the Shelby GT. The GT/CS edition rides 1.5 inches lower to the ground than the standard GT. Interior upgrades include Mustang labeled floor mats, and CS only leather interior color options. The 2007 GT Appearance Package adds the same hood scoop, exhaust tips and engine cover as found on the GT/CS.

2008-2009 Bullitt

2008 heralded the return of the Mustang Bullitt, a special edition variant of the Mustang GT, the last version of which was produced in 2001. The 2008 Bullitt is reminiscent of the Dark Highland Green GT-390 fastback Mustang driven by Steve McQueen in the 1968 film of the same name. Designed with subtlety in mind, the 2008 version is only available in Dark Highland Green or Black exterior paint and is stripped of its spoiler and GT fender emblems; the faux gas cap on the deck lid is replaced by a unique Bullitt version. The Mustang GT's standard fog light-equipped grille is replaced with the base V6 style grille sans the famous Mustang running horse logo. The car rides on unique Dark Argent Gray 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels with matching brake calipers and uses larger, 3.5 inch exhaust tips to replace the Mustang GT's standard 2.5 inch tips.

The Mustang Bullitt is powered by an enhanced version of the Mustang GT's aluminum 4.6L SOHC V8. Additional power is added through the use of a unique cold air intake, improved engine calibration, and a revised exhaust system specifically designed to mimic the sound of the Mustang used in the Bullitt movie. Total output is 315hp (235kW) @ 6000RPM and 325lb-ft (440Nm) of torque @ 4250RPM and the engine's redline has been raised to 6500RPM (from the standard Mustang GT's 6250RPM). Premium grade, 91-octane or better gasoline is recommended for the Bullitt's V8 for top performance but, significantly, an adaptive spark ignition system allows the engine to accept regular grade gasoline without any adverse effects. Total output is the same with either fuel but the engine delivers a flatter torque curve when using premium. The same Tremec TR3650 5-speed manual transmission from the Mustang GT is used in the Mustang Bullitt but the Bullitt features a more aggressive 3.73:1 rear axle ratio (versus the Mustang GT's 3:55:1 ratio). The Bullitt's suspension is improved over the standard GT utilizing stiffer springs, struts, and a decorative front strut tower brace while also lowering the car's ride height by six millimeters. [Ford Motor Company. Ford Media. "2008 Mustang Bullitt". 2008. http://media.ford.com/products/presskit_display.cfm?vehicle_id=1672&press_subsection_id=421&make_id=92] All of the Mustang Bullitt's unique components are available in the aftermarket for retrofitting earlier S197 Mustang GT vehicles but the parts used in Bullitt Mustangs are marked to show their authenticity.

According to the 2009 Mustang catalog, the Bullitt package is available on manual transmission Mustang GT Premium coupes as a regular production option; the same color restrictions apply.

Shelby GT and GT-H

2006's Shelby GT-H and later Shelby GT, based on the standard GT model, is modified by Carroll Shelby International to produce 319 hp (238 kW) by means of a Ford Racing air intake, performance tune, and upgraded exhaust system. [ [http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/coupe/112 0704 2007 ford shelby gt/ 2007 Ford Shelby GT First Road Test] ]

The Shelby GT-H, made available for rent only at selected Hertz car rental outlets, traces its roots to the original 1966 Shelby GT350H, famously known as the "Rent-A-Racer". The GT-H appears only in black exterior paint and twin gold racing stripes as a nod to the Hertz company's history, and, like the original, comes with an automatic transmission only. Completing the unique visual treatment is a billet aluminum grille, custom Shelby hood with functional hood pins, and the same front and rear fascia that would be found on the later Shelby GT and GT/CS models. The GT-H is outfitted with a Ford Racing Power Pack which includes a cold air intake, a revised exhaust system and custom performance calibration, boosting power to 319 hp (238 kW) and torque to 330 ft·lbf (447 Nm). The GT-H also includes the Ford Racing Handling Pack with lowering springs, improved dampers, sway bars, a strut tower brace and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly. [ [http://www.shelbyautos.com/gt-h.asp Shelby GT-H Official Page] ] 500 units of the coupe model were created for the 2006 model year, and a second run of 500 convertible models has been announced for 2008. [ [http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/01/ford-unveils-shelby-gt-h-convertible-001-sells-at-barrett-jack/ 2008 Shelby GT-H Convertible Information] ]

Shelby GT500

For 2007, Ford's Special Vehicle Team launched the highly anticipated Shelby GT500, successor to the 2003/2004 Mustang SVT Cobra. The GT500 shares many of its basic design characteristics with that of the Mustang V6 and GT. In particular, the GT500 retains the same basic live axle rear suspension setup of the Mustang V6 and GT, though with some minor durability enhancements to handle the car's greater power. Thicker sheetmetal supports and extra welds can be found on the GT500 chassis as well as redesigned strut towers to accommodate a wider engine. A supercharged 5.4L 32-valve DOHC V8 with an iron block and aluminum heads powers the GT500. The engine is mated to a Tremec TR6060 6-speed manual transmission and is rated to produce 500hp (373kW) @ 6000RPM and 480lb-ft (650Nm) of torque @ 4500RPM. A final drive ratio of 3.31:1 is standard in the GT500. Also standard are 18x9.5 inch wheels with P255/45ZR18 tires in the front and P285/40ZR18 tires in the rear. Stopping power is provided by Brembo 14-inch disc brakes with aluminum four-piston calipers in the front and 11.8-inch disc brakes with two-piston calipers in the rear. [Ford Motor Company. Ford Media. "2007 Shelby GT500 Specifications". 2007. http://media.ford.com/products/presskit_display.cfm?vehicle_id=1374&press_section_id=398&make_id=92]

In spite of its high end features and strong performance, the GT500 failed to meet some automotive journalist's expectations [http://autos.msn.com/research/vip/review.aspx?year=2007&make=Ford&model=Shelby%20GT500&cp-documentid=435626] [Citation
last =
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title = Shelby GT500 Mustang vs Superformance Coupe
journal = Evo Magazine
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id = ] . Car and Driver magazine, for example, though praising the GT500 for its ample horsepower and relatively smooth ride, criticized their test car for its heavy weight and, in particular, the nose-heavy weight distribution of 57.7% front and 42.3% rear (compared to the 52.5% front, 47.5% rear of a Mustang GT manual they tested). [Webster, Larry. "2006 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 2007 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500." "Car and Driver". Jul. 2006.] Nevertheless, in spite of their opinion on its drawbacks, Car and Driver tested a GT500 during their 2007 "Lightning Lap" later the same year, and found surprisingly that on track performance was comparable to the Audi R8 and the Porsche 911 Turbo [http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_lists/high_performance/features_classic_cars/the_lightning_lap_2007_feature] .

Shelby GT500KR

Building on the high performance foundation of GT500, engineers from Ford SVT and Shelby Automobiles sought to build an even more powerful car: the Shelby GT500KR. Debuting as a 2008 model, the GT500KR, "KR" being an abbreviation for "King of the Road", pays homage to the original 1968 Shelby Mustang of the same name. To back up its name, the GT500KR features a host of new components and performance enhancements over a standard GT500. Under the hood, the GT500KR uses the same supercharged 5.4L DOHC V8 as the standard GT500, but the KR's engine has been tuned to make 540hp (403kW) @ 6250RPM and 510lb-ft (691Nm) of torque @ 4500RPM, gains of 40hp and 30lb-ft of torque, respectively. While the Tremec TR6060 6-speed manual transmission remains the same, the GT500KR also benefits from a more aggressive 3.73:1 final drive ratio. To improve handling and help offset the car's front-heavy weight distribution, the GT500KR features a Ford Racing strut tower brace and uniquely tuned struts, shocks, and springs. Finally, to maximize the GT500KR's performance gains, measures were taken to keep the car's weight in check. Through the use of things like a carbon fiber hood and a revised exhaust system, the overall weight of the GT500KR is actually 22lbs "lighter" than a standard GT500. [Ford Motor Company. Ford Media. "2008 Shelby GT500KR". 2008. http://media.ford.com/products/presskit_display.cfm?vehicle_id=1685&press_subsection_id=421&make_id=92] For all of its performance enhancements and exclusivity as a limited production car, the GT500KR launched with a significant MSRP of $79,995.

Additional Information

Ford announced in July 2007 that all 2008 Mustangs would have seats containing material derived from soy beans, [cite news | last = | first = | title =New Twist on Green: 2008 Ford Mustang Seats Will Be Soy-Based Foam | publisher =Edmunds inside line|date=July 12, 2007 | url =http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=121682| accessdate =2007-10-02] harking back to some of Henry Ford's ideals.

On December 12, 2007, Ford announced a new option for the 2009 Mustang to be unveiled at the 2008 North American International Auto Show called the glass roof. This $1,995 option is in effect a full roof sunroof that splits the difference in price and purpose of the coupe and convertible models. [ [http://news.windingroad.com/body-stylesmarket-segment/sportsgts/ford-shows-2009-glass-roof-mustang/ Winding Road » Archive » Ford Shows 2009 Glass Roof Mustang ] ]

The 2010 model year Mustang, due to be launched in early 2009, will be unveiled at the 2008 Los Angeles International Auto Show. ["2010 Ford Mustang To Debut at 2008 L.A. Auto Show." Edmunds. http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=129807] Little definitive detail has been revealed thus far, but it is known that the car will receive new exterior styling, with an emphasis on the front and rear fascias, an updated interior, and new powertrains. Beyond this, the car will continue to ride on the existing D2C platform until a more complete redesign, expected by the 2012 model year, is ready.

References