Sometimes the stars align, and sometimes they don't. This was one of times when there was no alignment for this geezer. What a week to have my back bother me. Grin and bear it Grandpa.
Regardless of the pain, regardless of how stiff suspension was, even in "Normal" mode, the brash, tire smoking teenager in me made an appearance.
Okay this wasn't the biggest, badest Mustang; this was the 315 hp, 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder EcoBoost Mustang. It's odd that even though it gives up 171 hp to the standard 5.0 V8 it is only a few tenths of a second slower to 60 mph (4.5 seconds versus 4.2 for a 5.0). And the weight difference is only 135 pounds or so in favor of the EcoBoost. It is still a little heavy in my opinion at just over 3,800 lbs.
The only transmission is the 10-speed automatic. The test Mustang had the optional Brembo 6-piston calipers with 15" rotors front brakes. It's always good to know the brakes are up to the task of stopping.
One thing I could live without is the "Active Valve Performance Exhaust."
There are four settings from almost quiet to obnoxious. At engine speeds lower than around 3,000 rpm, and the exhaust set to the most obnoxious, the Mustang really did sound like one of those cheap "fart can" mufflers. Save the $1,225 dollars this setup costs. I am so tired of all the noise pollution.
I'm going off topic here. I really wish you could special order cars like you used to be able to do. In my opinion there is nothing inherently wrong with an EcoBoost Mustang that a judicious order form couldn't cure. Same goes for almost every single care out there. There are certain must haves for me - a great sound system, a/c, great brakes, maybe a few other things. Things I don't need include video screens, automatic climate control, smart cruise control.
Don't get me wrong, I liked the EcoBoost Mustang. The four-cylinder is a good choice for those who are not looking for bragging rights or swagger.
I drove a 5.0 Mustang not that long ago and liked it. I like the EcoBoost version almost as much. Fuel economy can be pretty good according to EPA - 21 city, and 29 highway. I'd prefer a manual transmission, and put it on a diet.
This Mustang felt big but in reality it isn't much bigger than a '65. The wheelbase is 107" versus 108" for a '65, and the length is 189.4" versus 181.6".
If you're considering a new Mustang I'd suggest you give the EcoBoost a look. I think you'll be impressed.
A base 2025 EcoBoost Mustang starts at $31,920, a base GT (5.0) starts at $46,560. Prices from ford.com. That is a huge difference. It's your choice.
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