2011 Mustang News

In the modern pony car wars, Ford is outgunned with its small-displacement engines, giving a major advantage to the Chevrolet Camaro and less so to the Dodge Challenger. Blue Oval loyalists take solace in that Ford powertrain engineers have been hard at work on a new 5.0-liter V-8 for car and truck applications, and it will join the Mustang ranks in year,

Word has it that with the increased displacement comes squared power output, with 400 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2010 Mustang GT has a 4.6-liter V-8 with 315 horsepower and 325 lb.-ft. That mill was impressive a few years ago, but it pales against a similarly priced Camaro with 426 horsepower. The return of the 5.0L designation may come with the return of a classic package, such as a Mach 1.

An EcoBoost V-6 is expected to join the ranks, as well, though it is doubtful it will be the 3.5-liter as reported elsewhere. The Eco 3.5L produces 355 horsepower in other applications. Exciting as that may be, it isn’t the solution the Mustang needs. Instead, expect a lower displacement version, likely a four-cylinder engine turbocharged to produce more power than today’s anemic V-6, yet with better fuel economy.

Clearly, the Mustang is becoming more appealing with each passing year, and the latest redesign addresses past criticisms such as the previous penny-pinching interior execution. Now, the Mustang stands as a right-sized alternative to the larger, heavier competitors. On the practical side, the 2010 Mustang coupe just earned coveted five-star safety in government front and side crash tests. In the end, it is expect power gain that will add sizzle that enthusiasts crave. After all, a pony car is all about the horses