First Drive: 2005 Ford Mustang GT Convertible
First impressions indicate a job well done. Wind noise and buffeting levels--even at 70 mph--allow normal conversation and better-than-average hairdo retention. Chassis-stiffening measures, which include several structural members to fight shake, are effective; only the nastiest bumps and road acne will make it wiggle, and then only a little. Defining any performance differences will have to wait until we get the convertible to the track, but the added weight and softer suspension take a smidgeon of edge off the driving experience. Ford should consider making the GT coupe's calibrations optional for those who value performance over ride quality, but most customers will feel this state of tune is fine.
Since 1964, Ford has built and sold more than one million Mustang convertibles. No reason to stop now.
| 2005 Ford Mustang GT Convertible |
| Base price (est) | $31,000 |
| Vehicle layout | Front engine, RWD, 2-door, 5-pass convertible |
| Engine type | 90* V-8, aluminum block/heads, SOHC, 3 valves/cyl |
| Displacement, ci/cc | 280.8 / 4601 |
| Max horsepower SAE net | 300 @ 5750 rpm |
| Max torque SAE net, lb-ft | 320 @ 4500 rpm |
| Transmissions | 5-speed manual; 5-speed automatic |
| Curb weight, lb (est) | 3650 |
| 0-60 mph, sec (est) | 5.8 |
| EPA mpg, city/hwy | 16/24 |
| On sale in U.S. | Spring 2005 |