The Mustang has been known for a long time as a muscle car. Its history returns back to 1964 when the first mustang was produced. So, in 2004 it’s time to celebrate the 40th anniversary. Thus, every 2004 Mustang will have 40th anniversary badges on the front fenders. By the way, 2004 was the last year for this model as Ford presented its new Mustang in 2005. Model line-up For 2004, Ford offers four models: V6, GT V8, Mach 1 and Cobra. The standard V6 has a 3.8L engine with 190 hp @ 5250 rpm and 220 lbs-ft @ 2750 rpm mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic one. The GT has a 4.6L V8 engine generating 260 hp @ 5250 rpm along with 302 lbs-ft @ 4000 rpm. The engine is mated to a 5-speed Tremec manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Mach 1 also has a 4.6L V8, but with dual overhead-cams and four valves per cylinder. Moreover, it has a shaker hood. That’s why it has 310 hp. The Cobra has a supercharged SVT 4.6L V8 engine which produces 390 hp @ 6000 rpm and 390 lbs-ft @ 3500 rpm mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Test drive My brother once had a 2004 Mustang GT coupe with manual transmission. It was black with a gray cloth interior, leather-wrapped steering wheel and a six way power driver’s seat. It has ABS, traction control, cruise control and 245/45ZR17 tires. It comes with front fog light, rear spoiler and twin tailpipes. Design The exterior design is fantastic. The car looks sporty and muscular thanks to the sharp lines and corners, front and side scoops, rear spoiler, twin tailpipes and nice looking front and rear lights. But, the interior is outdated and has some bad quality plastics. Performance The 4.6L V8 engine is satisfying especially between 3000-5000 rpm. With the high torque of that engine you can easily spin the rear wheels. The manual transmission is a little rough and hard, but it’s powerful enough to suit the powerful engine. The fifth gear is very long so as to improve fuel economy on highways. Comfort and space The front seats are spacious while the rear ones are not. The truck is a little small. However, the rear seats can be folded. The car is quiet on smooth surfaces. But on rough ones, some side-to-side jouncing can be noticed in addition to some lack of comfort. Steering and handling The Mustang’s steering is enjoying. Handling is good in corners although the car seems to be muscular if you give it some gas. On wet road, the car has a bad grip on the ground and it spins easily. The Bosch traction control system works at all speeds. Whenever wheel spin is detected, the system retards ignition timing, cuts fuel flow, and activates the brakes at one or both drive wheels. The driver can turn the system off with a console switch whenever he needs some fun. Fuel consumption Fuel consumption is a little high, but it’s reasonable for such a V8 muscle car. Pros: V8 torque, steering and muscular design. Cons: Outdated interior, rear-seats space and handling on wet roads. Conclusion: If you want a car with plenty of power and fun with a reasonable price, go for the Mustang. Category:Home › Home • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 2 • Will higher gasoline prices mean lower sales for new cars? — part 1 • Should the crew of the Sea Shepherd board whaling ships? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 13 • Grandparents: Can blogging chronicle your genealogy? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 12 • Are teachers unions the cause of public school problems today? • Which makes a better pet: A dog or a cat? — part 11
