New 305 Horsepower Mustang is Short Two Cylinders

    I wrote previously about the 2011 Mustang coming with all new powertrains to go head to head with the Chevrolet Camaro. The majority of the devout Mustang followers will often scoff at the idea of driving anything but the eight cylinder GT which has been for good reason. The last generation V6 Mustang was, in short, pathetic. Power numbers were down and the sound of the tired 4.0 liter resembled a lawn tractor when under full throttle. Needless to say, the time for its replacement has been long overdue. 

     

        Not a moment too late we are treated to an all new engine and transmission combination that may cause a few GT fans to raise an eyebrow. Ford has replaced its tired six cylinder for a new 3.7 liter V6 capable of putting out 305 horsepower and 280 lb. ft. of torque. Even better is the increased fuel economy which puts it at 30 mpg on the highway when combined with the six speed automatic. A long way from the previous 24 mpg seen from the 4.0 liter dinosaur. For those of you not impressed it is also interesting to note that Ford is the only auto manufacturer on the planet who can offer 30 mpg with over 300 horsepower. Put that in the attractive and capable Mustang and success can't be too far behind.

  

   Expect the new V6, along with its 7,000 RPM redline to hit dealer lots this summer. Mustang GT fans will have to be patient as Ford is set to announce its new V8 at the Detroit auto show January 11th. As for me? I don't care if the new V8 puts out 500 horsepower and does 0-60 mph in four seconds flat. My more sensible side tells me that the V6 is going to be plenty fast to satisfy me and efficient enough to convince my soon to be wife that is is "economical" to own.