2011 Ford Mustang GT at 2010 Detroit Auto Show
- Competes with: Chevrolet Camaro SS, Dodge Challenger R/T
- Looks like: Ford has built a V-8 engine that will make enthusiasts drool on their shirts
- Drivetrain: 412-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 with six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission; rear-wheel drive
- Hits dealerships: Spring 2010
The reshaping of the Ford Mustang's powertrain offerings continues with the debut of a new V-8 engine for the 2011 Mustang GT. It's rated at 412 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and produces a tire-melting 390 pounds-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm. The introduction of this new V-8 helps separate the uplevel GT from the base Mustang, which recently received a new 3.7-liter V-6 rated at 305 hp, just 10 hp shy of the outgoing Mustang GT. Pricing information for the new GT hasn't been released.
The GT's new V-8 also has a displacement of 5.0 liters, a hallowed engine size for Mustang enthusiasts that was enshrined in muscle car history with the application of "5.0" badges on the sides of previous Mustangs. Those badges return for 2011, replacing the "GT" lettering on the front fenders. Expect Mustang fans of a certain age to stop and stare when they see them. Pop the hood and more ogling is likely to ensue, as the new V-8 is a pretty engine.
In developing the all-aluminum 5.0-liter V-8, Ford paid particular attention to airflow into the engine. It features a composite intake manifold, and the alternator has been moved out of the valley between the cylinder banks for enhanced downward air movement. Other performance components include stainless-steel exhaust headers and a forged steel crankshaft. The engine weighs only about 10 pounds more than the outgoing 4.6-liter V-8, according to Mike Harrison, V-8 engine programs manager, but it makes 97 more hp. Ford isn't revealing what kind of zero-to-60-mph performance the new GT will offer, but it expects to have figures closer to when the GT goes on sale in the spring.


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