20th Dec 2010, 13:05
If you really want to drive a V6, please buy a Fusion. Everyone can tell the difference between a Mustang GT and a V6 Mustang. A GT is marketed towards a market segment that is extremely knowledgeable about performance. While the V6 Mustang is marketed for a female demographic. A Mustang GT is NOT the same as a V6 Mustang. Is a Royal Gala apple the same as a Granny Smith apple?
20th Dec 2010, 13:21
The MODEL YEAR 1995 Mustang GT was a 5.0 liter. The last year of the 5.0 until it came back in 2011. They did not produce a Mustang with the 4.6 in it until 1996... the MODEL YEAR 1996. Give me a break!
20th Dec 2010, 13:38
You are so wrong about this one. Why would Ford go to the lengths they go to in promoting the Mustang if no one cares about performance? The Mustang is a performance car that has a very long history of performance models associated with it. Just because your circle of friends cares nothing about performance, doesn't make that the norm. I am not saying it is a bad thing to buy a V6 Mustang if you are into the style. I just think that it is unrealistic to assume that so many people are clueless about the Mustang heritage, and which model is which.
21st Dec 2010, 00:49
Is this some kind of a joke? People can't tell the difference between a GT and a V6? Keep telling yourself that. Also, you would rather spend your money on things that can be seen? Sounds like you should have a got a pink Volkswagen Beetle or something, maybe people will notice that.
I am a 2007 GT driver, and the power out of the V8 is not good enough, maybe the new 5.0 will rectify that. I don't even want to think about the archaic 4.0 lump; Accords and Camry's are faster than that.
I always get a kick out of the V6 Mustang drivers that put "Boss" decals and what not on their cars, and then try to race me. Stuff like that is an insult to truly great cars, and a slap in the face to the Mustang community and to the Mustang itself.
21st Dec 2010, 13:22
Yep, you can bet there will be V6 cars popping up with "5.0's" on their fenders, just like in the Fox body days! But always remember, the V6 drivers don't care about performance, nor can they tell one Mustang from another... yeah right!
What is funny to me is that many of the guys claiming they just want the Mustang looks, go and modify their V6's so they go faster. Who are they kidding?
22nd Dec 2010, 12:15
It's called inferiority complex. V6 Mustang owners want to trick unknowing people into thinking their v6 Mustang is a real performance machine, like the Mustang GT.
22nd Dec 2010, 16:59
It's funny though how defensive they get about their choice. They even try to make it sound like the GT drivers are the defensive ones. When has it ever been the case that the person driving the top of the line, better performing car, is jealous of the person driving the low end base car?
Having had two V8 powered Mustangs so far, I can say I am anything but hostile or jealous of anyone who chooses to drive a V6 Mustang. Drive what you like, and I'll continue to admire it as it disappears in my rear view mirror!
The V6 Mustang looks good. So does every model in my 1/18th scale collection. They were cheaper to buy too and lack any real performance. To me, that route isn't much different then buying a V6 Mustang just for looks. At least with my models, I am not expecting something that isn't there.
22nd Dec 2010, 20:05
My opinion is they want the body style without the higher price tag or higher insurance. It's money. I waited a long time to get the model I wanted, but many may not want to wait.
22nd Dec 2010, 20:57
Why should anyone feel "inferior" about saving $6000-$8000, getting lower insurance rates and getting better fuel mileage? And why do people get so upset about engine size and horsepower? Most people buy cars because they like the styling. I have never bought a car based on horsepower. I always choose the smallest available engine in every vehicle from our large SUV to our Mustang, because any car sold in the U.S. is capable of far more than adequate performance. I suppose now people will say our SUV isn't a "real SUV" because we got the smaller engine??
And NO, you can't easily tell one Mustang from another. The quote from the "Top Gear" host was exactly right. Pick 100 people at random and show them pictures of V-6 and GT Mustangs. 99 of them (most likely all 100) will have not the slightest idea which is which. I recently read an article by another auto reviewer, who agreed with the "Top Gear" comment. He basically stated that from a few feet away, even the GT500 is virtually a carbon copy of the base 6.
The overwhelming majority of car buyers buy strictly for factors other than engine size. Even Mustang 6's outsell the GT nearly 2 to 1 (and always have). To think that because one chooses a 6 they "ought to buy a Fusion" is ludicrous. It is virtually impossible on a freeway entry ramp to accelerate at the full potential of even a Hyundai Accent, because there is always some slowpoke ahead. I have no desire to spend extra money for something I can't use without renting time at a racing facility.
23rd Dec 2010, 07:06
People are attracted to special muscle cars, not a facsimile of the real thing. People admire and dream at shows. I have been since 1986, and have seen a lot. I have tried your theory, and found it to be sorely lacking too. I then spent a lot more over time building them up, and had a harder time selling. Sometimes buying a cheap entry 6 initially becomes deep regret later. I still maintain it's better to wait. You get a better vehicle to own, drive and resell with broader appeal. If it's just a commuter driver without thinking, it's a ports car that may work for you. Mentioning a minivan as a comparison may be more fitting than saying you have a muscle car.
I have true muscle cars from the factory. There is a notable difference, more than just price. I show my cars, and most that I see are savvy, and know what's incorrect. Especially if it's a dedicated show to one brand. People know the trim tags and spot anything incorrect. Most are respectful, and I have found I have learned more about my own car from them. When you have a real muscle car, not a tribute or clone, it is really appreciated. People linger longer, not just quickly walk by. There are nice clones well done, but if it's real and well done, it stands out. Especially if its nicely optioned. The sense of pride and smiles from people in approval is worth the time and added cost to own.
20th Dec 2010, 11:49
"They didn't start the 4.6 until 1996."
Actually, they DID start the 4.6 in 1995. All new models are built and introduced in the preceding year. The 1996 was built in 1995, and introduced in 1995.