2008 Ford Mustang Review

In its shape and substance, the 2008 Ford Mustang recalls the popular pony car of 1967-69. The Mustang relies on simple architecture to achieve its impressive results-rear-wheel drive, a solid rear axle, and a big engine up front. This proven formula has worked well for the car for more than 40 years, and in GT form, the 300-horsepower V8 returns 0-60 times in the low 5-second range, which is fast enough to keep up with exotics costing twice as much.

Ford builds Mustangs for everyone-"a steed for every need." All coupes and convertibles come with the smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission standard and offer a five-speed automatic, except for the Shelby cars, which only come with a six-speed manual.

The base V6 Deluxe offers plenty of standard features for comfort and convenience, including remote keyless entry, air conditioning, four-way manual adjustable driver seat, cruise control, and more. The V6 Premium Package makes standard a Shaker 500 audio system with six-disc CD changer and MP3 player, and power adjustable seats. A V6 Pony Package includes a unique grille, fog lamps, a rear spoiler, Z-rated tires, Pony fender badges, and other appearance enhancements. A Warriors In Pink appearance package is available on the Premium V6 models, with proceeds benefiting Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

In V8-powered GT Deluxe and Premium coupes and convertibles, power seats are standard, as are 17-inch aluminum wheels, anti-lock brakes, fog lamps, and a rear spoiler. Premium standard features include the Shaker 500 system and leather seats. A Premium GT-only option is a 3.55:1 axle ratio, and the California Special Package, which features unique appearance accessories and badging.

The Bullitt Mustang includes a more powerful V8 with 315 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque, specially tuned suspension and brakes, a unique Dark Highland Green paint color, and special badging.

The GT500 KR utilizes a 540-horsepower 5.4L supercharged V8, short-throw six-speed shifter, and unique suspension tuning. It is available in the spring of 2008 and will be limited to just 1,000 units.

While the Mustang's exterior and interior remain largely the same for 2008, the standardization of front side air bags provides an extra level of safety in every Mustang, from the entry-level V6 Deluxe coupe to the top-of-the-line Shelby GT500 KR. This helps explain the Mustang's perfect five-star safety rating in all NHTSA crash tests. The convertible is the first open car ever to achieve such results.
The iconic Ford Mustang remains largely unchanged for 2008, though new exterior colors are available; Vapor Clearcoat Metallic, Dark Candy Apple Red Clearcoat Metallic, and Silver Clearcoat Metallic replace Tungsten, Redfire, and Satin Silver. The top-tier Shelby GT500 adds only Vapor Clearcoat Metallic.

Ambient interior lighting and high intensity discharge (HID) headlights will debut as an option on all Mustangs. V6 coupes will now offer 18-inch premium polished forged wheels, and all V6 cars will offer an optional Safety & Security Package, which includes anti-lock brakes, traction control, an active anti-theft system, and a wheel locking kit. Front side air bags become standard across the range. V6 and GT convertibles can be ordered with the same high-quality fabric top found on the Shelby GT500 Mustang convertible.

Three special-edition Mustangs are planned for 2008: the "Warriors in Pink" Edition on V6 Premium coupes and convertibles with the automatic; the 315-hp Bullitt Mustang; and the 540-horsepower Shelby GT500 KR "King of the Road" Mustang, with just 1,000 available. see less