2003 Steeda Q400 Mustang - Brakes & Suspension - First Drive & Road Test Review

Driving the Q400 at Moroso Motorsports Park, the peaky Paxton came to life above 3000 rpm, gaining full strength at about 4500. Running the road course, the engine required ample shifting to stoke the fire in the Q400's belly. The Q400 resists the urge to step out under hard throttle, enabling -- even encouraging -- mid-turn tip-in that would rotate a stock GT with oversteer. When diving deep into turns, the upgraded brakes on our test car (four-piston Brembos up front, Cobra R front discs fitted to rear) provided formidable-yet-predictable stopping power. When massive brakes are typically fitted to cars, they can transition too sharply from a light feathering to full-on drop-the-anchor mode. This configuration was quite smooth, fitting the car's overall balance.

The suspension modifications see the stock front springs increase from 450 lbs to 650 lbs; the rear height is lowered an inch though tension remains the same. Urethane bushings reduce noise. Vibration and harshness, and contribute to the refined demeanor. The real trick here is the Steeda X2 ball joint. Taller than the stock unit, the X2 raises the spindle relative to the ball joint pivot point, moving the roll center back into the correct range for optimum balance. This allows softer springs and anti-roll bar to be used -- hence the deceptively compliant ride.

Despite the braggart appearance and proven performance, the gentlemanly Q400 drives with surprising poise. When driven mildly, the Q400 has a mannered disposition that only hints at its potency. Pushed to the limit, the car provides such refined performance we could envision some owners wanting to dial in a bit more severity.

The Q400 is available through any Ford dealership, and it carries a full warranty, with Steeda supplementing the standard 3-year/36,000-mile factory protection.

SOURCE: Steeda; 954/960-0774; www.steeda.com