Celebrating 50 Years of Mustang

Sales of American cars in Japan remain challenging. Once objects of admiration, they now garner little attention. Despite 2011 being Chevrolet's 100th anniversary and last year marking the 60th anniversary of the "Corvette"Corvette," neither made a significant impact in Japan. To delve into niche details, the Dodge brand also celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.

In fact, the"Mustang" also marks its 50th anniversary in 2014.And as if to celebrate, sales of the redesigned 2015 model are set to begin.The official announcement was in December last year.I recall attending an event held in Sydney just past 11 PM for the simultaneous global announcement.

Nearly ten months have passed since then. In the final week of September, an international press event for the new Mustang was held, starting from the Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles. As someone who also celebrated their 50th anniversary this year, I was eager to participate in this program, and my interest in the new Mustang, along with my joy, was immense.

As mentioned earlier, I had seen the new design multiple times at the Sydney launch event and online. However, seeing the actual car before me, its presence was more powerful than I had imagined. It truly made me realize the difference between seeing a car on display and seeing it outdoors. The sharp, LED-infused headlights and the bulging rear fenders are quite aggressive.

Overall, it can be considered a natural evolution of the previous model. This is because the design cues are derived from the historical icon, the first generation. The silhouette, especially from the side, strongly evokes that. Wasn't the first-generation Mustang truly a perfectly proportioned and outstanding design? It's understandable that it sold over 600,000 units annually upon its debut.

Does an Inline-4 Engine Suit the Mustang!?

The new model is characterized by the availability of three engine options. The catalog lists the existing 5.0-liter V8 and 3.7-liter V6, finely tuned from their predecessors, along with the newly introduced 2.3-liter inline-4 "EcoBoost."

Interestingly, there's a reversal of roles here. This EcoBoost engine actually surpasses the V6 in maximum output, with the inline-4 producing 310 hp and the V6 producing 300 hp. The V6 is still offered because of its large fanbase in America. I can understand that sentiment; the feel of previous V6 models was quite good. However, only the inline-4 and V8 will be sold in Japan.

One might think an inline-4 engine doesn't suit the Mustang, but historically, it has a track record. The third-generation Mustang offered one, and I recall its displacement was also 2.3 liters. Therefore, the inline-4 engine represents a return.

Personally, I would also highlight the change in the rear suspension. This is because the Mustang had traditionally adhered to a rigid axle. The new model, however, adopts an independent suspension. The objective, of course, is to improve ride comfort and agility.

However, they also carefully considered the needs of drag racing users. The V8 model comes standard with Line Lock, which locks the front brakes to allow for burnouts. This is a rather thoughtful consideration.

A European-Style Inline-4 and an American-Tasting V8

So, what is it like to actually drive?

The EcoBoost started its test drive with remarkably smooth acceleration. Its refined ride was, in a way, so nimble and comfortable that it made me wonder, "Is this really a Mustang?" The engine, revving past 6,000 rpm, is truly modern. It's quiet, and the throttle response is quick.

The steering feel is also consistent with this. The power steering is set relatively light, and even when making continuous steering inputs on winding roads, the car changes direction cleanly. The stable handling here is likely due not only to the improved ground contact from the independent rear suspension but also, crucially, to the increased body rigidity. The new Mustang has been thoroughly refined with strong consideration for European sales. There are absolutely no creaks or rattles. In essence, it feels European.

In contrast, the V8 model offers a more American finish. This top-tier variant bears the name "GT," which is also emblazoned on the rear garnish. And its performance is exactly as imagined. Lifting the hood upon acceleration reminds you that this is a descendant of the muscle car. Combined with the racy exhaust note, it's a moment that brings a smile to your face.

Naturally, the driving performance is also exhilarating. Along with the sharp acceleration, you feel as if you've become more muscular yourself. Yet, it's also been transformed into a handling machine, much like the EcoBoost, which is irresistible. While the previous model's stability was impressive despite its rigid axle, this one surpasses it. The degree of evolution is indeed high.

So, for the new Mustang, it's the EcoBoost for a modern experience and the GT for enjoying old-school flavor. In either case, I hope it serves as a stepping stone for the revival of American cars. In an increasingly globalized world, the significance of this car, with its distinct personality, is high.


Ford Mustang 50 Years Edition | Ford Mustang 50 Years Edition

Body Dimensions | Length 4,790 x Width 1,920 x Height 1,380 mm
Wheelbase | 2,720 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,580 / 1,645 mm
Weight | 1,660 kg
Engine | Inline-4 Direct Injection Turbo
Total Displacement | 2,260 cc
Bore x Stroke | 87.5 x 94.0 mm
Maximum Output | 231kW (314 ps) / 5,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 434Nm (44.3 kgm) / 3,000 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed AT
Drivetrain | FR
Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Strut / Multi-link
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc
Price | 4.65 million yen (Sales start Spring 2015)

*Reservations accepted at Ford dealerships nationwide from November 1st to February 2nd, 2015.
*Details for the right-hand drive specification are scheduled to be announced in the latter half of 2015.



Ford Mustang GT | Ford Mustang GT
Body Dimensions | Length 188.3 x Width 75.4 x Height 54.4 inches
(Length 4,783 x Width 1,915 x Height 1,382 mm)
Wheelbase | 107.1 inches (2,720 mm)
Tread Front/Rear | 62.3 / 64.9 inches (1,582 / 1,648 mm)
Weight | (6MT) 3,705 lbs. (1,681 kg) (6AT) 3,729 lbs. (1,691 kg)
Engine | 4,951 cc V8 DOHC
Bore x Stroke | 92.2 x 92.7 mm
Compression Ratio | 11.0
Maximum Output | 435 ps / 6,500 rpm
Maximum Torque | 400 lb.-ft. (542 Nm) / 4,250 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed MT / 6-speed AT
Drivetrain | FR
Suspension Front | MacPherson Strut
Suspension Rear | Multi-link
Tires Front/Rear | 235/50R18
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc / Ventilated Disc
Trunk Capacity | 13.5 cu.ft. (382 liters)
Minimum Turning Radius | 5.75 (18-inch tires) - 6.10 (20-inch tires) meters

*Values for the "Mustang GT" equipped with the V8 engine are all U.S. specifications. Figures in parentheses are calculated values.
*Introduction is planned for the latter half of 2015.

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