2005 Ford Mustang Gt

Only in America could an econobox in fancy dress named for a wild horse become the must-have machine of an entire generation. Where else could a musclecar's sales rise as its powertrain and chassis were emasculated (mid-1970s)? And in what other land could a manufacturer lie about a car's engine size in bright chrome numerals for 14 years and even fudge power output a couple times along the way without sales tanking?

Nevertheless, two-and-a-half decades, two Corvettes, and five presidents later, Ford has finally done the honorable thing and foaled a brand-new pony. It showed it off, talked about it, and at long last tossed us the keys for a chaperoned drive across Michigan to Gingerman Raceway. But mere subjective impressions gleaned on a carefully orchestrated launch seemed like a bun without the beef, so we managed to lasso a stray 'Stang and hook it to our gear for an exclusive first test (see sidebar).

Is this Mustang worthy of the loyalty the brand has always enjoyed?

A quantum improvement is noticeable from 10 feet away, and it's not just the fab retro/modern styling. All the panel gaps, surface alignment, and detailing on these salable early production cars look Japan tight and orderly. Interior craftsmanship is similarly first-rate, with real aluminum on the steering wheel and dash (on cars with the optional appearance package) and a chic, woven headliner.

A higher beltline and narrower windows conspire with a proper bucket seat and heel-'n'-toe pedals to make the new Mustang cockpit feel sportier, though the car stands an inch taller and the seat is a half-inch higher off the ground. Shorter folks may find themselves banging their funny bone into the console lid while shifting the short stick, which was moved aft this year. Everyone will notice the dead pedal is tipped forward at an awkward angle that doesn't match that of the accelerator. The rear seat accommodates sub-six-footers reasonably well, but they'll have to hold their own lattes--Ford neglected to mold a pair of cupholders into the back of the center console.