2002 Ford Mustang: Road Test
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2002 Ford Mustang ▼
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- MSRP: $17,475 -$37,370
- Invoice: $16,142 -$34,397
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Our road test for the 2002 Ford Mustang includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Ford Mustang from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Ford Mustang, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Ford Mustang help you decide if a 2002 Ford Mustang is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 5.7 |
V6 feels sprightly, especially with manual transmission. GT's V8 feels robust, but trails Camaro/Firebird V8 for all-out kick. We have not tested the 2003 Cobra.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 6.1 |
Manual-transmission GT test cars averaged 15.5 mpg. Expect slightly better with V6. Base and GT models use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3.5 |
Mustang has a ride-comfort edge over Camaro/Firebird, though bad pavement comes through distinctly in the stiff-riding GT models.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 7.4 |
Plenty of lateral grip and good steering feel, but Base and GT tend to get skittish in bumpy corners. We strongly recommend traction control to help minimize tire slip in these rear-wheel-drive cars.
QUIETNESS
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 2 | 3.2 |
Hard acceleration brings lots of V6 engine ruckus and, on V8s, engine and exhaust roar. Convertibles aren't uncomfortably noisy with the roof raised.
CONTROLS
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
Legible and easy to use. Build quality is nothing special, and hard plastic dominates the interior. Rearward visibility is limited--especially with the convertible's top up--but it's nonetheless equal to or better than most rivals.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.5 |
Good room for two and seats are supportive. Long doors are a hassle in tight spaces.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 1.5 |
Grade-school kids might fit, but it's no place for adults. Entry/exit is typical sporty coupe, requiring awkward crouching under low roof, squeezing between front seat and doorjamb.
CARGO ROOM
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 1 | 2.9 |
Meager trunk space, and convertible lacks coupe's folding rear seatback.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.2 |
Mustang has outlasted its soon-to-be discontinued GM competition because it has broader appeal. This is still an impractical car, but easily fulfills its core mission: Deliver sporty performance and looks for a reasonable price.
Total Score
| Base cpe, auto. | GT conv, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 42 | 42 | 45.5 |
Total Score: 42
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars
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