# 2015 Mustang (the new detroit war isn't all about horsepower) **URL:** \ **Category:** NYSpeed Automotive\ **Created:** [October 18, 2013, 6:15pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379 "2013-10-18T18:15:27Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 5
**Author:** ![Harvey](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/harvey/32/5069_2.png) [@Harvey](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/Harvey)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 10:09am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/81 "2013-12-06T10:09:13Z")
> [@fairgentleman Z](#): > > More expensive materials? Costs ~$10k more and 98 less horsepowers. [http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-cadillac-ats-25l-test-review](http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-cadillac-ats-25l-test-review) > > Base vs. Base. > > You’d have to step up to the $37,595 (base price) 3561 lb ATS 3.6 to match the 14.0 second 1/4 mile of the $22,995 (base price) 3520 lb V6 Mustang > > Caddy: [http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-cadillac-ats-36-instrumented-test-review](http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-cadillac-ats-36-instrumented-test-review) > Stang: [http://media.caranddriver.com/files/2011-ford-mustang-v6-vs-2010-chevrolet-camaro-rspony-car-twin-bill.pdf](http://media.caranddriver.com/files/2011-ford-mustang-v6-vs-2010-chevrolet-camaro-rspony-car-twin-bill.pdf) I agree, but there are other cars that are in the 3300 lb range that are the same size or bigger (Legacy, Corvette, 370z ect…). It would not have been unreasonable for Ford to release a sub 3200 lb two seater. In my mind making it lighter would have taken the Mustang from being just about $/hp. ---
**Author:** ![LZ1](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/l/7ab992/32.png) [@LZ1](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/LZ1)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 10:16am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/82 "2013-12-06T10:16:24Z")
> [@Harvey](#): > > I agree, but there are other cars that are in the 3300 lb range that are the same size or bigger (Legacy, Corvette, 370z ect…). It would not have been unreasonable for Ford to release a sub 3200 lb two seater. In my mind making it lighter would have taken the Mustang from being just about $/hp. 370z and Vette are both 2 seat cars… Mustang is 4 ---
**Author:** ![fairgentleman\_Z](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/fairgentleman_z/32/7263_2.png) [@fairgentleman\_Z](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/fairgentleman_Z)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 10:35am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/83 "2013-12-06T10:35:05Z")
I think he wants to see a return of the Thunderbird 😛 For the Mustang to be a success and true to what it really is it has to be cheap and 2+2. Sure it would be nice for Ford to have a light 2 seater, just as much it would be nice to have a 4 door (to go against the SS). But it won’t be called a Mustang if it happens. ---
**Author:** ![yamba6](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/yamba6/32/5161_2.png) [@yamba6](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/yamba6)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 12:36pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/84 "2013-12-06T12:36:15Z")
Would really be nice to see chevy and ford produce a 2x2 that competes at the lower price level. I know Chevy had the solstics and sky… but something more appealing would be nice. And I’m sure Ford dropped the weight by making thinner metal and different parts in the car with lighter material like aluminum. Corvette is so damn light because of the aluminum frame as well which the Mustang does not have. (yes one is 2 seat and the other is not) ---
**Author:** ![articzap](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/articzap/32/7361_2.png) [@articzap](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/articzap)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 4:04pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/85 "2013-12-06T16:04:18Z")
… > [@Big Boss"](#): > > **(Motor Authority)** > > ![http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3749/11224382666_6008a70689_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/d/0/d0100402397488141dbb2553d1d1df18bde0763f.jpeg) > > ![http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5500/11224357645_bc9b86a2c7_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/7/8/7844820624f663171a421b22cab394143c320d94.jpeg) > > ![http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5505/11224381026_c3a2e6d46b_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/c/2/c2bf44727e5713ea247c843fdbf42e9ece2e8a27.jpeg) > **2015 Ford Mustang’s Engines & Independent Rear Suspension: Details** > > > The 2015 Ford Mustang’s slick styling will probably be the subject of numerous debates, but there’s just as much going on underneath the sheetmetal. > > For the Mustang’s 50th year, the engine lineup will consist of a 5.0-liter V-8, a 3.7-liter V-6, and–for the first tine since 1993–a four-cylinder engine. > > > That four-banger is a new 2.3-liter turbocharged and direct-injected EcoBoost unit. It produces 305 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque, and will actually serve as the mid-range engine option in the Mustang lineup. > > > While Ford already has a family of turbocharged EcoBoost engines, this one has a new a low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger–which the Blue Oval says quickens boost response–and a cylinder head with an integrated exhaust manifold, which has individual inlets for increased efficiency. > > > A small four-cylinder engine may seem like sacrilege in America’s most iconic muscle car, but there really is nothing new under the sun. Ford offered the four-cylinder Mustang SVO performance model from 1984 to 1986, and offered a 2.3-liter four until 1993. Since then, tuners and high fuel prices have made small, efficient engines much more popular. > > > Of course, the Mustang lineup will still be anchored by a V-8. It’s an evolution of the 5.0-liter “Coyote” unit from the last Mustang, producing 420 hp and 390 lb-ft. Improvements include a new valvetrain and cylinder heads, as well as a new intake manifold with charge motion control valves. These valves adjust airflow at low speeds, improving the air-fuel mixture for better fuel economy, idle stability, and lower emissions. > > > Ford says many of the improvements to the V-8 are the result of lessons learned from the Mustang Boss 302. > > > Base models will get a carryover 3.7-liter V-6, with an estimated 300 hp and 270 lb-ft. > > > Also new to the all-new Mustang (aside from a brief stint with a retrofitted system on the Cobra in 1999-2004) is independent rear suspension. Using an H-arm, an aluminum knuckle, toe and camber links, and inboard springs, the new suspension isn’t quite the A-arm geometry you might expect of a performance car, but it should offer a marked improvement to both ride quality and handling compared to the previous solid-axle setup. > > > A Getrag six-speed manual transmission is standard equipment on the 2015 Mustang; a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters is optional. Expect transmissions with more gears in the future. - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > > **Ford Shows Off 2015 Mustang Convertible from Barcelona, New York, and Sydney** > > > By now, you now know everything we know about the 2015 Ford Mustang. Ford’s multi-city reveal event this morning showed off the coupe—whose shape was pretty-well predicted by our renderings published last month—to crowds in Dearborn, Los Angeles, and Shanghai. Now we have our first look at the convertible, which joined the coupe at simultaneous reveals in Barcelona and New York, and stood alone in Sydney. > > > We know little about the droptop’s weight or rigidity compared to the coupe’s, but Ford says the softtop lowers in about 15 seconds—roughly twice the speed of the current car’s system. When down, the roof fabric sits exposed without a tonneau, and when up, the profile looks much like that of the 2014 model. - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > > Sequential Taillights continue in 2015 - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > > ![http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3786/11229163023_326dd3cac3_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/4/5/45fea59f75f00611e833e79c61b33bdab213ea7c.jpeg) > ![http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3722/11229163813_ed480c4113_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/6/4/6466c2f7109cbc6461f86089ef7d63ff2e3840bd.jpeg) > > ![http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7295/11229063564_54b999dce3_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/a/f/afb0242701abe01b019a7d8a958871631b9038d2.jpeg) > ![http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/11229164573_d9959bfef9_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/9/b/9b5246229081f5d1213e20b558fbd6d5dad5ede2.jpeg) > **Inside The 2015 Mustang’s New EcoBoost and Coyote Engines** > > > The next-generation 2015 Ford Mustang gets twin-scroll turbo power with the introduction of a new 2.3-liter EcoBoost inline-4 engine. It will be joined by an updated Coyote that features revised cylinder heads, more aggressive camshafts and an active intake manifold. > > > Ford didn’t release final horsepower numbers when the new Mustang made its public debut today, but projected the EcoBoost will offer 305-plus horsepower with around 300-plus lb-ft peak torque. The 5.0-liter V8 should generate more than 420 horsepower and twist around 390 lb-ft. > > > Base engine for the new Mustang will be a 3.7-liter V6 with a projected 300 horsepower rating at 6,500 rpm and 270 lb-ft peak torque at 4,000 rpm. > > > The new EcoBoost is a stroked version of the 2.0-liter model. The bore remains the same at 87.5mm (3.45 inches), but the stroke is increased from 83.1mm (3.27 inches) to 94mm (3.7 inches) on the 2.3-liter version. Ford is also implementing a twin-scroll turbo for the first time. Popular with import performance cars, twin-scroll technology separates the inner and outer exhaust pulses with a cylinder head design that integrates the exhaust manifold. > > > Basically, the exhaust flow from cylinders 1 and 4 are separated from cylinders 2 and 3. This arrangement keeps the exhaust pulses from “interfering” with each other, as would be the situation if all the exhaust ports flowed into a single collector. The result preserves more of the exhaust pulse energy to spin the turbo wheel efficiently and reduce turbo lag. The separated exhaust ports also allow the exhaust valves to remain open longer for reduced pumping losses that Ford says improve specific fuel consumption by about one percent. > > > To address durability, Ford went with a forged-steel crankshaft and connecting rods inside a high-pressure die-cast aluminum cylinder block that has integrated main bearing caps. The cast pistons feature steel ring carriers and are cooled on the underside with oil squirters. A deep-sump die-cast oil pan acts as a structural member and includes baffles to maintain oil delivery in high-speed cornering or fast acceleration situations. > > > Other features familiar to EcoBoost engines include twin independent variable camshaft timing, direct injection and coil-on-plug ignition. Compression ratio is 9.5:1. > > > For the 5.0-liter V8, Ford implemented a few tricks learned on the 2013 Boss 302 program. Most notably, the cylinder heads have been hogged out with larger valves and a revised intake port that provides a more direct flow for high-rpm flow. Ford engineers took advantage of this improved airflow by revising the cam specs (1mm more intake lift, 2mm additional exhaust lift) and adding stiffer valve springs. Ford also revised the piston design to take advantage of the new combustion chamber needed to accommodate the larger valves. > > > Another trick was to include charge motion control valves (CMCV) to the intake manifold. With better breathing at high rpm, low-end torque can be adversely affected. By adding CMCV, the airflow is partially closed off, thereby increasing the charge rate to help boost low-rpm performance. Also manipulating the airflow is a variable cam timing mechanism with increased range of adjustment due to the addition of mid-lock phasers on the intake side. > > > Other features of the new 5.0-liter engine include rebalanced forged-steel crankshaft and sinter-forged connecting rods that were found in the Boss 302. Compression ratio is 11.0:1, and oil-pan capacity is eight quarts. - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > > NYC Reveal > > ![http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3736/11230153834_5046706323_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/8/8/88bb2ad1ed3e8539cee7bdc829dd08b2022e034e.jpeg) > ![http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5488/11229168283_996792cf7a_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/a/0/a0b088f38278116634abb185874e335e101b4902.jpeg) > ![http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7450/11229059645_9d0febce42_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/8/f/8f22a5a6954403f1c72bbe3f6484623c47f1a674.jpeg) - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > > L.A. Reveal > > ![http://www.camaro5.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=580712&stc=1&d=1386324995](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/4/9/49b2f22fdd5160994b96665962c249cde786d542.jpeg) > [UPDATED: 2015 Mustang Updates From Los Angeles Reveal - FordMuscle](http://www.stangtv.com/features/car-features/2015-mustang-updates-from-los-angeles-reveal/) > (Notice the fully painted rear diffuser) ---
**Author:** ![fairgentleman\_Z](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/fairgentleman_z/32/7263_2.png) [@fairgentleman\_Z](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/fairgentleman_Z)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 4:14pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/86 "2013-12-06T16:14:15Z")
Is it me, or is the exhaust manifold for the 2.3 cast into the head? So, no custom runners for aftermarket? Seems like higher cylinder head and block temps would result, unless there were some cooling jackets in that area. I’m sure this isn’t the first design like this, but it’s a first time that I have seen one. ---
**Author:** ![articzap](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/articzap/32/7361_2.png) [@articzap](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/articzap)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 4:20pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/87 "2013-12-06T16:20:35Z")
> [@fairgentleman Z](#): > > Is it me, or is the exhaust manifold for the 2.3 cast into the head? So, no custom runners for aftermarket? Seems like higher cylinder head and block temps would result. > > I’m sure this isn’t the first design like this, but it’s a first time that I have seen one. It is indeed cast into the head. Not at all the first time for this type of design. Was done back in the day with 6 cylinder Mustangs. Not sure if its better, but it certainly hurts the aftermarket ability to make big power with the motor. Maybe it was done for this reason? Most likely something greater than my knowledge though. ---
**Author:** ![joelster](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/joelster/32/7258_2.png) [@joelster](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/joelster)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 5:00pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/88 "2013-12-06T17:00:39Z")
> [@articzap](#): > > It is indeed cast into the head. Not at all the first time for this type of design. Was done back in the day with 6 cylinder Mustangs. > > Not sure if its better, but it certainly hurts the aftermarket ability to make big power with the motor. Maybe it was done for this reason? Most likely something greater than my knowledge though. Less parts to make, no gaskets, no issues with breakage, faster assembly time. All boils down to bottom line $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. ---
**Author:** ![articzap](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/articzap/32/7361_2.png) [@articzap](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/articzap)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 5:13pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/89 "2013-12-06T17:13:29Z")
> [@joelster](#): > > Less parts to make, no gaskets, no issues with breakage, faster assembly time. All boils down to bottom line $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$. Figured there would be more room for error in casting with more complex shapes. ---
**Author:** ![bing](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/bing/32/7211_2.png) [@bing](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/bing)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 6:30pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/90 "2013-12-06T18:30:11Z")
that red car looks really really nice. can’t wait to see the Boss 302 and GT350 / GT500 versions of the car. ---
**Author:** ![articzap](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/articzap/32/7361_2.png) [@articzap](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/articzap)\ **Post date:** [December 6, 2013, 6:37pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/91 "2013-12-06T18:37:54Z")
> [@bing](#): > > that red car looks really really nice. > > can’t wait to see the Boss 302 and GT350 / GT500 versions of the car. I thought GT500 was being dropped for Cobra badge again. ---
**Author:** ![drewster99](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/drewster99/32/5468_2.png) [@drewster99](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/drewster99)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 5:26am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/92 "2013-12-07T05:26:16Z")
I hate myself for wanting that. ---
**Author:** ![articzap](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/articzap/32/7361_2.png) [@articzap](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/articzap)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 6:13am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/93 "2013-12-07T06:13:48Z")
… > [@Big Boss"](#): > > ![http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3743/11224382784_698276d996_h.jpg](https://canada1.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/uploads/speedlife/original/3X/b/2/b25d27eeb31cf32cc843ff3038c8d7cf8b57f7de.jpeg) > **2015 Ford Mustang to serve as halo car in Europe, other overseas markets** > > > Ford Motor Co. expects that its 2015 Mustang coupe will boost its image in Europe, even though the car will not sell in large numbers. > > > > “The Mustang’s formidable reputation for performance and its iconic status as a symbol of freedom and optimism precedes it even in those parts of the world where the car has never been sold,” Ford of Europe CEO Stephen Odell said today in a statement. > > > > Ford plans to sell the Mustang through its European dealer network for the first time in the model’s 50-year history to broaden the car’s appeal beyond its core American audience. > > > > Ford unveiled the sixth-generation Mustang at simultaneous events here and in Michigan, Shanghai, Sydney, New York and Los Angeles. The car will go on sale first in the United States and Canada in the fourth quarter of 2014, followed by China and then Europe sometime in 2015. Ford will sell both fastback and convertible versions. > > > > Ford has sold more than 9 million Mustangs sold since the car was first launched in 1964. It was the inspiration for the R&B song “Mustang Sally,” which was popular in the mid-1960s, and has been featured many times in Hollywood movies. > > > > **Technology advances** > > > > The latest Mustang gets a more modern design, a more nimble chassis and more efficient engines and transmissions. It uses classic Mustang styling cues such as the bluff reverse-angle front end, but the car has more sophisticated details such as slim high-intensity discharge headlights. > > > > “We want it to say it’s quite a technologically advanced car, not a Neanderthal American,” Ford’s new global head of design, Moray Callum, told Automotive News Europe. > > > > Jacques Brent, Ford’s general marketing manager for large cars and SUVs, said Mustang sales in Europe will be modest. “Current global volume for Mustang is around 106,000. We’re expecting some growth but we haven’t banked on doubling the volume or anything like that,” he said. “It’s going to be relatively niche.” > > > > The Mustang will get a new 2.3-liter four-cylinder turbo EcoBoost engine that will make more than 309 hp. A 5.0-liter V8 engine will also be offered in Europe, but not the entry 3.7-liter V6. The car will also come with independent rear suspension as standard for the first time. > > > > The focus on technology was important to highlight its role as “a billboard for what Ford is capable of,” Brent said. “This car showcases all the technologies that exist in the Ford range. Things like the functionality around Sync and the performance and fuel economy of EcoBoost will be a large portion of the messaging,” he said. > > > > **Affordable pricing** > > > > Ford has not yet released prices for the Mustang, but Brent said the gap between Ford’s current range and the Mustang will be less than equivalent Chevrolet muscle cars offered by General Motors. > > > > The new Corvette Stingray starts at 69,990 euros ($94,938) in Germany, while the V8-powered Chevrolet Camaro will start at 39,990 euros (about $54,330) for the coupe and 44,990 euros (about $61,123) for the convertible when they go on sale at the end of the year. > > > > Brent said the Mustang will appeal to European customers who drive high-performance volume cars such as the Fiesta ST subcompact and Focus ST compact but want to “move up.” > > > > The new Mustang has the same wheelbase as the current model but is 1.5 inches lower and 1.5 inches wider. > > > > As with the current car, the new Mustang will be built in Ford’s Flat Rock plant in Michigan. The plant now runs on two shifts, but that can be increased to three shifts if demand increases significantly, Ford said. > > > > Ford expects only about 10 percent of the Mustangs to be sold overseas. Outside North America, IHS Automotive estimates the biggest markets for the new Mustang will be Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, the Philippines, Brazil, South Korea, France and the United Kingdom. - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > - - - Updated - - - … > [@Big Boss"](#): > > **(Edmunds)** > > **2015 Ford Mustang First Look** > **Everything You Want To Know About the All-New Pony Car** > > > Remember all those rumors that the 2015 Ford Mustang was going to be smaller, tidier, dramatically more shrink-wrapped? Just plain wrong, on all counts. It turns out that although it’s built on a new platform, the 2015 Mustang follows in the footsteps left by its predecessors. > > > > And that’s really the point: The new Mustang is a car with global ambitions, and changing the plot would have been a colossally risky move. After all, this is a car of which 9 million units have sold over a continuous 50-year period. You don’t mess with that kind of track record. > > > > That’s not to say that the new Mustang is simply more of the same. On the contrary, it introduces some of the most noteworthy changes to the fabled pony car since its introduction in 1964. The company gave us an early look at the 2015 Ford Mustang and shared the skinny on some of its particulars during a closed-door, no-cameras-allowed briefing in Dearborn, Michigan. > > > > **Here’s Where It’s Bigger and Where It’s Not** > > Fundamentally, the new Mustang’s major dimensions are very similar to those of the outgoing car. Its wheelbase is an identical 107.1 inches, its front track measurement is carried over and at 188.3 inches the overall length is essentially unchanged. The new car then goes its own way, sitting 1.4 inches lower and 1.5 inches wider. Compared to today’s GT, front track increases by almost an inch, while the rear track expands by nearly 3 inches. > > > > Perhaps the still-ample dimensions of the new car are no surprise, since the Mustang has historically enjoyed tremendous popularity in part for its useful backseat and everyday functionality. Dramatically downsizing the car would have been embraced by driving enthusiasts but is anathema to casual buyers and fleet sales. > > > > Weight reduction measures have been minimal. Aluminum fenders replace the current car’s steel, but otherwise the 2015 Mustang employs a steel-intensive unibody construction. Ford’s lips are sealed regarding curb weight other than to point out that the new car has a lot more feature content than the old car, which is code for “It’s heavier.” Our guess is that the new car will gain about 100 pounds, which would place the GT model in the low 3,700-pound range. > > > > **Its Worst-Kept Secret Now Confirmed** > > Taking the Ford Mustang onto a global stage meant finally ditching its live axle rear suspension. That low roar you hear is the sound of Mustang die-hards across the nation weeping into their pillows. Sorry, fellas, but as capable as the Mustang’s live axle had become after years of tweaking, there’s simply no getting around the physics of its excessive unsprung weight and the attendant impact on ride quality and bump sensitivity. > > > > By adopting an independent rear suspension, the 2015 Mustang is said to have twice the anti-dive and twice the anti-squat characteristics of the old car. And since the engineers were starting with a clean sheet, the new car’s suspension geometry avoids the packaging compromises that afflicted the '99 Mustang Cobra’s independent rear. Ford officials are quick to point out that the new rear suspension was developed specifically for the Mustang and is unrelated to any existing Ford product. > > > > The MacPherson strut front suspension geometry is philosophically similar to the outgoing car, though dual ball joints have been added in the pursuit of steering precision and front-end grip. While nobody outside of Ford has driven the new car yet, its handling character is said to be more capable and confidence-inspiring than ever, particularly when the limits of the tires’ adhesion are being explored. > > > > **A V6, a V8 and…** > > Three engines will be offered. The base engine will be the 3.7-liter V6 from today’s Mustang, apparently with a few tweaks, given that Ford’s projections of 300 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque are each a bit lower than the same engine in the current car. > > > > A massaged version of the 5.0-liter V8 tops the range in the GT model, now boasting new cams with 1mm more intake lift and 2mm more lift on the exhaust side, new heads with slightly larger valves and a revised intake manifold with tumble control valves. It also receives the connecting rods and valve springs from the current Boss 302 engine. The sum total of these changes brings its output to…well, Ford’s only saying that it will eclipse the 420 hp and 390 lb-ft of the current V8. We expect it will pick up 20 hp and 10 lb-ft of torque. > > > > Slotting between the V6 and the V8 is the most significant development in the world of Mustang outside of the independent rear suspension: a turbocharged, direct-injected EcoBoost 2.3-liter four-cylinder. Its major hook? V6-trumping power and “significantly better” efficiency. > > > > The official line today is that the EcoBoost 2.3 will develop more than 305 hp at 5,500 rpm and in excess of 300 lb-ft of torque between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm on 87 octane, though our sources indicate the peak output will land in the neighborhood of 330 hp. It’s an undersquare layout (3.5-inch bore and 3.7-inch stroke) with 9.5:1 compression ratio and a twin-scroll Honeywell turbo that bolts directly to the head, sans traditional exhaust manifold (the exhaust runners are integrated and paired directly in the head casting itself). > > > > We’re told that the new car’s weight distribution is slightly less nose-heavy, especially with the lighter EcoBoost four-cylinder up front. All three engines will be available with a new Getrag six-speed manual gearbox or a paddle-shiftable six-speed automatic complete with rev-matched downshifts. The manual box’s new internals are said to provide smoother shifts, while the automatic has less parasitic loss and the ability to handle more torque than the outgoing one. > > > > **If All That Horsepower Isn’t Enough for You** > > Another intriguing wrinkle is an optional Performance Pack option for the EcoBoost engine. It adds the 14-inch, four-piston fixed-caliper brakes from the V8-equipped GT model, as well as a shorter 3.55:1 final-drive ratio (3.15 gears are standard). Summer tires measuring 255/40 and 19-by-9-inch wheels also find their way under the fenders. > > > > The Performance Pack for GT models includes monstrous six-piston brake calipers and 15-inch discs, a shorter 3.73:1 Torsen limited-slip rear end, engine and gearbox coolers and aerodynamic aids. The same front wheels and tires found in the EcoBoost Performance Pack are included here, though the rear end gets even larger 9.5-inch-wide wheels and 275/40 tires on GT models. > > > > **A Design Inspired by the Mustang’s Golden Era** > > Although the sheet metal changes are comprehensive, the new car’s styling is evolutionary rather than revolutionary, probably a smart move considering the risks of getting too clever with such an iconic nameplate. Inspiration was drawn heavily from the '69 Mustang, arguably the best starting point from which to divine Mustang inspiration. The end result is a car that is instantly recognizable as a Mustang. And in a good way, not in a Mustang II way. > > > > Styling elements considered “inviolable” by the design team included the tri-bar taillights (yes, they will still do the silly blink-in-succession thing), the fastback shape and a pronounced sharklike nose. A lower roof, hood and significantly lower deck lid reduce visual bulk, and the driver’s hip point has been lowered nearly an inch. Also note that the body-color “hockey stick” B-pillar of today’s car has been blacked out for 2015. > > > > The wider rear track really adds visual gravity to the aft end of the 2015 Mustang, and this characteristic is magnified by larger dash-to-axle measurement. By moving the base of the A-pillar rearward a hair and adding pronounced rear haunches, the car’s rear-wheel-drive nature is emphasized in a way the old car’s slab sides and thin hips could never achieve. A voluptuous Mustang? Certainly it is more curvaceous than ever. > > > > **Why Wasn’t the Mustang’s Cabin This Good Before?** > > The cabin has been brought fully up to date, too. A smaller-diameter steering wheel has been fitted and the bits that look like brushed aluminum are indeed brushed aluminum. The shifter has been moved closer to the driver, the cupholders have been skooched out of the way and the side mirrors no longer attach at the window corner, improving visibility. Keyless entry is standard and adaptive cruise will be available, and more aggressive Recaro seats are a stand-alone option. > > > > We sat in a prototype buck equipped with the new cabin and found the new surroundings a pleasant upgrade in every way. The acres of hard plastic and goofy skinny-font gauges are gone, and the steering wheel simply feels more expensive in your hands. And in the it’s-about-time category, the wheel adjusts for reach and tilt rather than tilt-only in the existing car. On paper, the head- and legroom are reduced a bit up front, but the wider cabin gives front and rear passengers a bit more space to swing their elbows and the cargo area comes with a user-friendly 2-inch reduction in liftover height. > > > > Three interior color schemes (black, stone and brown) and 10 exterior hues will be available at launch. Among those are orange, yellow and a compelling new green-gray shade called Guard. > > > > We also clapped our eyes on the convertible version of the 2015 Mustang, which looks more elegant than ever. The beltline is terrifically clean, and the softened rear haunches play nicely with a bespoke deck lid. Its fabric top has a single center latch and is stowed by the electric motor in 7 seconds, half the time of the old car. > > > > **How Much Will It Cost?** > > You’ll be able to see the 2015 Ford Mustang in person at January’s Detroit auto show before it rolls into dealer showrooms next fall. > > > > Pricing hasn’t been announced, but it’s a safe bet that it’ll be incrementally more expensive than today’s car. Big increases aren’t anticipated because, after all, the Mustang’s core values are rooted in its accessibility. But don’t look at us to hazard a guess and risk spreading a rumor. ---
**Author:** ![XwalkerX](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/xwalkerx/32/7598_2.png) [@XwalkerX](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/XwalkerX)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 7:37am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/94 "2013-12-07T07:37:16Z")
There is a new one here at cars and coffee this morning. [ATTACH]25236[/ATTACH] [ATTACH]25237[/ATTACH] Sent from my iPhone using [Tapatalk](http://tapatalk.com/m?id=1) ---
**Author:** ![Paul\_B](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/paul_b/32/5452_2.png) [@Paul\_B](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/Paul_B)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 8:05am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/95 "2013-12-07T08:05:33Z")
Definitely looks like the interior is substantially better. Who knows how it will actually feel. ---
**Author:** ![ubengineering](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/ubengineering/32/5171_2.png) [@ubengineering](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/ubengineering)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 9:55am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/96 "2013-12-07T09:55:07Z")
That might be the fastest 4 cyl that affordable since the SRT4 neon, all the others, caliber SRT4, mazdaspeed3/6, GTI, Cobalt SS SC & TC were all slow as balls. STI and Evo were fast but were much more expensive. ---
**Author:** ![LZ1](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/l/7ab992/32.png) [@LZ1](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/LZ1)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 10:03am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/97 "2013-12-07T10:03:23Z")
> [@ubengineering](#): > > That might be the fastest 4 cyl that affordable since the SRT4 neon, all the others, caliber SRT4, mazdaspeed3/6, GTI, Cobalt SS SC & TC were all slow as balls. STI and Evo were fast but were much more expensive. How fast do you think this car is going to be? The current V6 makes the same power the turbo 4 will make… ---
**Author:** ![ubengineering](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/ubengineering/32/5171_2.png) [@ubengineering](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/ubengineering)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 10:21am UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/98 "2013-12-07T10:21:03Z")
> [@LZ](#): > > How fast do you think this car is going to be? > > The current V6 makes the same power the turbo 4 will make… I’m saying it _could_ be as fast, for some reason the SRT4 Neon went 13s in the quarter and low 5’s to 60 with ONLY 230 HP, granted still 2800 pounds, but the mazda speed, even the rx8, cobalt, gti etc all 250-300, but they were all slow as balls. The turbo 4 mustang is an upgrade over the v6, maybe the torque is on quicker demand, I don’t know until we see the first test results ---
**Author:** ![joelster](https://yyz2.discourse-cdn.com/flex034/user_avatar/forums.speedlife.net/joelster/32/7258_2.png) [@joelster](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/joelster)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 2:44pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/99 "2013-12-07T14:44:56Z")
I like it! It looks really good from certain angles. I’m sure they will have different wheel options and stripe packages like they always do (and over-do lol) ---
**Author:** ![LZ1](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/l/7ab992/32.png) [@LZ1](https://forums.speedlife.net/u/LZ1)\ **Post date:** [December 7, 2013, 3:07pm UTC](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379/100 "2013-12-07T15:07:24Z")
> [@ubengineering](#): > > I’m saying it _could_ be as fast, for some reason the SRT4 Neon went 13s in the quarter and low 5’s to 60 with ONLY 230 HP, granted still 2800 pounds, but the mazda speed, even the rx8, cobalt, gti etc all 250-300, but they were all slow as balls. > > The turbo 4 mustang is an upgrade over the v6, maybe the torque is on quicker demand, I don’t know until we see the first test results I wish they had the turbo 4 as a mid range power level(350-360ish)between the 305 V6 and the 420 V8 the V8 is also under rated so the 4cyl wouldn’t be stepping on toes [Previous page](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379.md?page=4) [Next page](https://forums.speedlife.net/t/2015-mustang-the-new-detroit-war-isnt-all-about-horsepower/233379.md?page=6)