General Information
Time, money and a lot of manpower has resulted to create a perfect machine with qualities and features to die for. The 2011 Ford Mustang puts the Ford Company on top of its game once again because of the upgraded packages that have been introduced to make it the great car it is.
Ford offers three types of Mustang to choose from; you can go with the standard or base V-6, the GT V-8 or the spectacular Shelby GT supercharged V-8. You should not waste your money trying to acquire the older 2010 version as the 2011 renders it inferior and you should definitely not have much expectation in the 2012 version as they will not have major differences. The engineers working on this new version have really brought out the muscle car aspect of the Mustang and incorporated advanced technology to make one awesome super car.
The Ford engineers have souped-up the engine and increased the horsepower to a staggering 305 in just the V6 model. The engine block is now made of aluminum thus lighter than the normal cast blocks. The smooth touches on its exterior are more defined than ever but it still retains the signature grille, emblem and the side stripe. The 2011 Mustang is user-friendly because even though there is an increase in horsepower, speed in general and the installation of a 6 speed gearbox, fuel consumption is an outstanding 30 miles per gallon.
As far as the shape, that is something that is a looker as well. The shape of the new Mustang borrows a lot from the design on the Mustang from the 60s and 70s but with a few touches on the tail and the nose not only to make it look modern but also contribute towards the streamlined shape for more speed and road stability.
Changes and Upgrades
Though you cannot spot the major differences between the 2011 version and its predecessors by just looking at it, if you drive the car you will have an experience out of this world. It is only then that you will realize the effort put into this version by dedicated Ford engineers.
Major changes can be noticed beneath the hood as the 3.7-liter 2011 Mustang has 95 hp more than the 2010 version which is a 4.0-litre. This makes the 2011 version more economical but with a more powerful engine.
The newer version has been fitted with twin variable camshaft timing and a genuine dual exhaust which together work to increase the rpm to a staggering 7,000, which is 1000 rpm over the previous version.
Technology has advanced and Ford has not been left behind, a lot of electronic work has been done to improve the ease of driving a Mustang including:
- There is use of computerized operations including a Ford’s MyKey teen-driver-safety installation. With this you can limit the speed and the audio volume of your car. You can also keep the traction-control engaged and activate unbuckled seatbelt reminders.
- The side mirrors are now powered with blind spot reduction using convex inserts.
- The 2011 Mustang now sports halogen headlamps and three-lens tail lamps with sequential indicator illumination.
- The switch to a powered steering has reduced drag considerably and consequently reduced the fuel consumption.
- There is an introduction of a software; “Active Nibble Control” which monitors the condition of wheels and compensates for any road clowning and crosswind.
- You will also have cruise control with power adjustable seats, air conditioning and automatic climate control, power windows and door locks with a remote lock and unlock function, stability control and ABS brakes.
- The 17” standard wheels have been replaced by the 19”alloy wheels with performance tread. The suspension is more reinforced and firmer.
- There is an audio navigation system, an electric sunroof option and a convertible version for convertible lovers, heated seats with airbags designed to protect the head and torso.
- All the options have an MP3 fitted with a 1,000 watt output.
- There is also the use of an infotainment sync system developed by Microsoft for Ford. It has USB and iPod ports and a Bluetooth phone link and music streaming.
- There are 100 fancy shades available for the illumination of the dashboard.
2011 Mustang Performance
The 2011 Ford Mustang has been tested on all aspects regarding performance by subjecting it to extreme conditions. For a 3.7 liter with a speed of up to 160mph, the 2011 Mustang has got it figured out. The combination of so much power with low fuel consumption of up to 31 miles per gallon will be in the interest of most drivers.
This car also offers world class stability with an aerodynamic shape which gives the car a sport look and allows top speeds. Front and rear anti-roll bars have been made thicker for safety precautions. With the new improvement in the breaking system, you will be sure to avoid those small accidents. With between 7,000 and 8,000 rpm the 2011 Ford Mustang is surely a speed vehicle and with all the improvements and upgrades its performance is better and more fulfilling.
The 2011 Mustang GT
Finally the return of the 5 Litre Mustang! This brand new 5.0L powered Mustang will pump out 412 ponies and 390 lb-ft of torque. To get all of the power to the ground you get the option of either a 6 speed automatic or a 6 speed manual transmission. All of that and a estimated fuel economy of 25 miles to the gallon? That sounds pretty kick ass to us.
“This all-new 5.0-liter engine is the next chapter in the development of the world-class Mustang powertrain portfolio,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “It’s a thoroughly modern engine for the times, delivering the performance and fun-to-drive factor that enthusiasts want, while improving fuel economy.”
How much for the super car?
For the quality and features of a 2011 Ford Mustang you will have to part with between $22,000 for a base version and $54,000 for a Shelby GT500 convertible depending on your specifications. You can choose to drive the base Mustang version, The Mustang GT, or the Mustang Shelby depending on your wallet and needs.
This is not expensive for people looking for speed, power, style, comfort and high performance not forgetting the fuel economy attribute of the 2011 Ford Mustang. You should also budget for transport shipping charges when planning to make a purchase.
For every version there is premium trim that comes with an additional $2,500 price tag. These premium trims have added accessories that make them more expensive. For example they will have leather interiors, aluminum accent dashboards and dressed up gauge clusters with automatic color illuminations. For an automatic transmission you can add an extra $995 for a base or GT model. You can also have a navigation kit installed at a price of $2,340.
In simple words, whatever extra accessory or feature you want in your car will demand you to cough up some extra cash. Although this does not mean that the 2011 Mustang in its base version is not a wonder. All in all the 2011 Ford Mustang gives you a ton of bang for the buck, some raw muscle and classic lines, and even some modern comforts.
Final Thoughts from the Editor
I owned a ’95 5.0L mustang back in the day and it was one of the most fun cars I’ve had the chance to drive. Sure it didn’t handle well, it over-steered all the time and had too much weight up front… but I loved that car and it peeled rubber with no problems at all. Had an old 5.0 Litre at some point? Let me know in the comments below.