A lot of people still like the classic styling of the Mustang. We'll see what's in store for 2004!

I just sold a '97 Mustang Cobra to free up resources for one of the new sports cars coming out. Right now I'm just waiting to test drive the Z. I hope it goes well because I really like the car otherwise.

I have driven a 300ZX, so I can give a little bit of comparrison. The Mustang is fast, very fast. 7000 RPM and over 300 HP in a V8 is a LOT of fun (my '97). While the Mustang is a capable handler, especially after the changed to IRS in '99, it just feels heavy. The 300 was much lighter on its feet in comparison, even though it was actually heavier.

My biggest problem with the Mustang is the interior. Much imporvement needs to be made. Even a Focus is nicer inside. As far as quality and reliability, you should expect no problems. I only had one and it was a manufacturing defect that cased some of the Borg Warner trannys to pop out of gear. They replaced a shaft and it was fine. I replaced the sloppy factory shift lever with a billet aluminum model without all of the rubber crap and STILL had no shifter shake/vibration. Very solid.

I've owned sports cars from Nissan, Chrysler, and Dodge. The Mustang had by far the best build and materials quality. My Nissan was a 280 and their quality has since surpassed Ford, but the Mustang is still good. Body panels all lined up well. Paint was good. Machining of engine and brake components was excellent!

I'm very happy I had a chance to own one, but I'm in the mood for something different now. I'll settle for less power if the Z is still fast. It's the driving "experience" I'm looking for.

Sorry for the rambling. I could go on and on, but I forced myself to stop!

-TB

 

It must have taken on a life of its own. IMHO...... I think they, ford should have droped that blown engine into the new 2004-2005 fatsback..... this cobra dates back to what.......1980? The newer mustang looks good, maybe because it a 24 year old body style....and it is just nice to see somthing new. the fastback will be a breath of fresh air. I hope they do somthing about the crapy seats and give it 2-3 more inches of seat travel.

 

DO NOT BUY A MUSTANG. TRUST ME. THEY ARE GARBAGE!

 

Ha! I'd probably say that too if I had the V6.

Like I said before, sorry for rambling. Wasn't trying to change the topic of the post. In my opinion, the Z is the best sports car value right now! (On paper anyway - I haven't driven one) People are most likely bashing it because they refuse to believe it can offer as much performance as much more expensive and exclusive cars. Nissan had a great concept with this car. I'm glad the overpriced, overweight, overdone Zs of the 90s have been transformed back into a pure performance machine.

-TB