Best Seller

1996-98 Ford Mustang
The Ponycar Legend Lives
The automobile landscape changed forever when Ford rolled out the Mustang on April 17, 1964, ushering in the ponycar era. Now in its 11th generation, the Mustang is still one of America's favorite musclecars and the best seller in its class.

Produced in coupe or convertible forms, the gen-10 ('96-'98) Mustangs are decent handlers with good power, large clear gauges, and comfy interiors-as long as you aren't in the rear seat. Three power choices are available: a 3.8L/150-hp V-6 (base), the 4.6L/215-hp SOHC V-8 GT, and the 4.6L/305-hp DOHC SVT Cobra. They're all good performers, though competing Z28 and SS Camaros offer more horsepower per dollar.

Aerodynamically styled with a dose of testosterone for good measure, the 'Stang is a natural for aftermarket wings, skirts, and bolt-on power adders. It's easy and cheap to make them really run. But before considering a hopped-up pony, make sure a reputable shop installed the parts. The '98s were plagued by recalls: problematic cruise-control cable and rack-and-pinion assemblies, potential for leaky fuel rails, and thorny e-brake self-adjust cog. Early 4.6L Cobra engines had a few cooling problems, which should also be addressed by a dealer.

Mustangs are a good performance value new, and used base and GT models are a steal. Cobras hold their value especially well, due to their limited build numbers (SVT only produces around 10,000 copies a year). Throw in the coupe's four-star safety rating (convertibles received five) and a high fun factor, and the Mustang remains the affordable American ponycar icon.

What's Hot
* Punchy powertrains
* Sporty interior
* Ponycar heritage

What's Not
* Too much understeer
* Tight back seat
* High theft rate

For a direct link to this manufacturer's Web site, go to motortrend.com.

TIP: Car Shopping for Teens
When purchasing a teen's first car, there's bound to be a conflict of interest: Parents want a vehicle that's reliable and safe, while kids want a ride that's flashy and fun. If you're in the position to have the final say, or even some influence, over what your teen drives, consider this:

* Safety should be the most important factor in determining what vehicle your offspring chooses: Seriously consider vehicles manufactured after '92 (driver-side airbags were mandated that year), and check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Web site (www. nhtsa.gov) for crash-test scores.

* Choosing a car, truck, or SUV that will reliably convey your teen is equally paramount. Every vehicle (new or used) can and will suffer some sort of mechanical breakdown. Web sites such as intellichoice. com can steer you toward models with better-than-average reliability ratings.