Ford Mustang GT Convertible (2005)

The payoff from "adding lightness" is evident. For one thing, the 2005 Ford Mustang Convertible shares its suspension geometry and virtually all its suspension tuning with the coupe. As a result, never before have the coupe and convertible ridden and handled so much alike. Another benefit of the convertible's sensibly managed weight program is that excess poundage does not sap acceleration.

Like the 2005 Ford Mustang coupe, the convertible uses a MacPherson strut front suspension and a rigid rear axle that has surprised the automotive press with its composure and handling prowess. The secret for its success is a three-link setup with a Panhard rod that maintains precise control over the axle.

Steering is via a power-assisted rack-and-pinion system.

Disc brakes are fitted at all four corners. The Ford Mustang GT rotors are the biggest ever used on a mainstream Mustang and the calipers are the stiffest. A 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard on the Ford Mustang GT Convertible and optional on the V6. ABS also comes with traction control. This all-speed system can be switched off when the driver desires to "hang it out" a bit on dry pavement, or when a smoky burnout is in order for an acceleration run.

Standard tires on the Ford Mustang GT Convertible are W-rated P235/55ZR-17 all-season performance radials on 17-by 8-inch alloy wheels. The V6 Ford Mustang Convertible comes with 16-by 7-inch wheels with T-rated P215/65R-16 all-season tires.

Power Personified and Personalized

Mustang is the very symbol of American muscle, and the 2005 Ford Mustang Convertible is no exception.

The base engine is a 4.0-liter SOHC V6. Producing 210 horsepower and 240 foot-pounds of torque, it is more powerful than the 260-cubic-inch displacement V8 that was an option when Ford Mustang was first introduced.

For those who want something more, the V8-powered Ford Mustang GT Convertible boasts the same 300-horsepower, 4.6-liter V8 as its coupe counterpart. The GT's new three-valve V8 has variable cam timing and thus generates 40 more horsepower than the previous-generation Mustang GT V8. Automotive historians also will note that this new 281-cubic-inch engine produces 50 percent more power with less displacement than the legendary small-block 289 V8 of 1964 Ford Mustang.

While they are responsive, both Ford Mustang engines are respectful of the environment. Both meet Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) standards. On average, the 2005 fleet for Ford Mustangs will emit 57 percent less smog-forming pollution than the 2004-model-year fleet.

Five Speeds, Two Choices

For the first time, the Ford Mustang Convertible is available with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 5R55S automatic is optional with either the base V6 or the V8 Ford Mustang GT Convertible and has closely spaced gears to keep the engine running in its power band. This assists acceleration as well as fuel efficiency.

Standard on both V8 Ford Mustang GT Convertible and the V6 Ford Mustang Convertible, is a Tremec five-speed manual.

To Protect and Serve

While the agility and acceleration of the 2005 Ford Mustang Convertible can help a driver avoid an accident, not all bad situations can be escaped. That's the point at which passive safety systems take over.

Here again a smartly structured body comes into play. The rigid core of the 2005 Ford Mustang Convertible creates a safety cage that helps protect the cabin from deformation and intrusion during an impact. The front of the car is designed to help channel the violent energy of a collision away from vehicle occupants.

The Ford Personal Safety System™ is also there to serve with dual-stage driver and front-passenger air bags as well as safety belt pretensioners and energy management retractors. Side-impact air bags for the driver and front passenger are optional.

And to help you keep a Ford Mustang Convertible in your stable, an optional active anti-theft package provides an increased level of protection, including a separate alarm sounder, new anti-tow sensor, ultrasonic interior motion sensor, perimeter anti-theft protection and even a high-capacity battery to keep sounding the alarm longer.

New Home For The Range

With the 2005 model year, Ford Mustang has moved to a new plant from its long-time home at the Dearborn Assembly Plant at the Ford Rouge Complex. All Mustangs are now made at the AutoAlliance International assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The 2005 Ford Mustang Convertible will go on sale in the spring.

2005 Ford Mustang Convertible is the most affordable V6 and V8 drop-top sports car in America - starting at $24,495 for the V-6 model or $29,995 for the V-8 Ford Mustang GT Convertible.