January 6, 2003

Ford Mustang concept recalls early Mustang styling

Detroit, Michigan - The new Mustang convertible and coupe concepts shown at the Detroit car show borrow heavily from Ford's late-60's Mustang designs. The concepts, presented as a two-seat fastback coupe and convertible, preview the design direction of the next-generation Mustang's due in 2004, says Ford.

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Both cars started out with a modified Ford Thunderbird rear-wheel-drive platform. The platform was sectioned to achieve the proper proportions. The front-end geometry is all original - customized to accommodate the Mustang's 4.6 litre V8. Functional hood scoops help the supercharged engine breathe as it churns out nearly 400 horsepower. The engine is a 4.6-litre 90-degree cast-iron block V-8 with aluminum heads, a belt-driven supercharger and a liquid-to-air intercooler. The Mustang features 20-inch wheels and 13.8-inch vented Brembo disc brakes.

Inside, there are more signature Mustang styling themes: The cockpit includes perforated red leather surfaces on the seat backs and steering wheel, as well as a billet-aluminum shifter for the 5-speed automatic transmission, four-point racing-style seatbelts and unique instrument gauges that look like a fine watch.

"When you're designing a new Mustang, you're the steward of 40 years of automotive history. If you don't get it right, you've got 8-million Mustang fans to answer to. I think we got it right," says Mays.

The coupe conjures images of 1967 and 1968 Fastbacks while the convertible brings back cues of the early Shelby Mustangs, especially in its "show bar" and wide-element tail lamps.

While they're reminiscent of another era, Ford says that inside and out, the Mustang GT concepts are thoroughly modern.

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