View allAll Photos Tagged TestDrive

www.facebook.com/thedahldifference

 

From Edmunds (http://www.edmunds.com/ford/mustang/2010/testdrive.html) -

 

The Ford Mustang operates on a fairly simple formula — put a big V8 in the front that drives a solid axle in back, put two doors in between and make it fun to drive. Sounds simple, right? You'd think so, but the details have often served to make or break this revered nameplate. It seems that every time the Ford engineers change something, the Mustang faithful hold their collective breath either in anticipation or fear. For every Shelby GT500 memory, there's been a Mustang II waiting around the corner. The unveiling of the 2010 Ford Mustang at the Los Angeles auto show was no different, and like so many times before, reaction to its mild styling redesign was mixed. From the driver seat, though, we're happy to report there's nothing but thumbs-up.

 

Although the new Mustang shares many exterior traits with its 2009 predecessor, every panel except for the roof is completely new. The styling tweaks are noticeable fore and aft, with a sloping nose that produces a more sinister frown, and more shapely taillights. From any angle, though, the historical styling DNA is readily apparent.

 

The makeovers are more than skin deep, however, thanks in large part to a raid on the Mustang Bullitt parts bin. The 2010 Ford Mustang GT now makes use of the Bullitt's cold air intake to help boost power output, along with a reworked ECU to raise the redline to 6,500 rpm. The new GT also borrows some suspension components from the Bullitt and further stiffens the springs for more spirited cornering.

 

Performance improvements are always applauded by ponyphiles, but mention the word "refinement" and they'll begin mobbing Ford headquarters with pitchforks in hand. To them "refinement" equals wimpy, lame and most definitely not Mustang. Yet, noticeably less wind and road noise and a higher-quality cabin don't sully any of the fun — nor the V8's wonderful growl that's actually channeled into the cabin via an induction tube.

 

After all, it's that visceral, blood-pumping emotion that ensures the Mustang's survival. Turn the key and feel the big V8 rumble as it roars to life. Then stab the throttle, dump the clutch and leave greasy black tire streaks on the pavement in a cloud of white smoke. For more than 45 years, this ritual has been a staple in the life of the Ford Mustang. Hailed as revolutionary when it debuted in 1964, the Mustang takes an evolutionary step forward for 2010, while remaining true to its roots.

Before buying it, we first made a test drive. Frank (here sitting next to me) took thisone home (The Netherlands) as a souvenir. It was purchased in Huntington Beach Florida

During this testdrive we drove around Western Cape district in South Africa. I tried to capture the beautiful sceneries in my pictures, but when I got back home I found the ones I took in small villages and towns more interesting. [ © Eric Lund. All rights reserved. ]

1 3 5 6 7 ••• 79 80