2011 Ford Mustang Review

2011 Ford Mustang Review is one of those rare cars that runs on history and tradition � that�s what happens to cars when they�re instantly successful. And that�s certainly the case for this American icon, which saw almost a million units sold in the year following its launch at the 1964 World�s Fair in New York.

But more important, perhaps, is that the supercharged truck engine stuffed under the GT500�s hood added weight to the front end of a car that was already nose heavy. The last Shelby we tested was more than 300 pounds heavier than a GT, and almost all of those extra pounds were over the front axle. Much as we enjoyed the 2007 to 2010 Shelbys, we didn�t like the way they overworked their brakes or understeered. They liked entering corners about as much as a pig enjoys being measured for an open pit. Plus, their engines suffered from heat soak during track work and wouldn�t produce full power during lapping sessions.

At first glance, the news in the engine bay isn't all that promising. It's still a 5.4-liter supercharged and intercooled V8 backed by a six-speed manual transmission. Peak power climbs just 10 hp from 540 to 550 thanks mostly to a increase in exhaust-pipe diameter from 2.5 inches to 2.75 (The larger pipes reduce back pressure). Torque remains at 510 lb-ft, but it occurs 250 rpm lower, at 4250. A larger intercooler has also been added, for more consistent performance.

Likely the most significant option change for the GT500 is the SVT Performance Package, giving the GT500 a track-ready performance pack from the factory. This package includes specially developed Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar G: 2 tires, a higher rear axle ratio, stiffer springs, lighter wheels and cosmetic changes for both the coupe and convertible. Ford attributes a 3.0-second lap time savings over the outgoing coupe on the 2.3-mile test track.

Ford has also lowered the GT500 by 11 millimeters up front, and 8 millimeters out back for improved handling. SVT says it added slotted brake dust shields to help improve brake cooling and handling, as well as a new pedal box with is aimed at improving clutch and pedal efforts.