Mustang On The Charge

The 'Stang is back! Ford has bitten the bullet and put the legend into production again. Unveiled at this week's Detroit Motor Show, it's the latest in a long line of muscle cars to bear one of America's most famous badges.

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By Chris Thorp

08th January 2004

In profile, the similarities between this showroom-ready version and the Sixties' classic are obvious. From the characteristic roofline and lengthy bonnet to the traditional front-engine/rear-wheel-drive chassis, the car is a clear statement on the future of Ford's controversial Living Legends programme, which has already seen the GT and Thunderbird launched.

The looks were showcased on the Mustang GT concept revealed at 2003's Detroit expo and, a year on, the production version has retained its aggressive stance. The four-seater is also more practical than some of its forebears, thanks to a wider track, longer wheelbase and better use of interior space.

Two versions will be available: the 202bhp 4.0-litre V6 entry-level model is to be badged simply Mustang, while the 300bhp 4.6-litre V8 flagship will be called the Mustang GT. The latter gets a boot spoiler and larger alloy wheels.

Inside, the retro theme continues with aluminium trim and a three-spoke steering wheel, but the Mustang does have a modern trick or two. Alongside the chrome-rimmed dials, lights can be adjusted to illuminate the cabin in one of 125 colours. Ford has no plans to bring the car here, but with prices at the dollar equivalent of ΂£12,500 at launch late this year, the Mustang looks excellent value, even including personal import costs.

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