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2002 Ford Mustang Full Review
Date Published: 11/23/08
Also in the 2002 Ford Mustang Review:
2002 Ford Mustang Review
New audio choices and larger standard wheels update the original ponycar for 2002. Mustang's Base and GT models come in coupe and convertible body styles. Convertibles have a power top and glass rear window. For '02, major option packages are redesignated as submodels called Standard, Deluxe, and Premium. All Base Mustangs have a 190-hp V6, GTs a 260-hp V8. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard, with automatic optional on Base and GT. All Mustangs have 4-wheel disc brakes; ABS coupled with traction control is standard or optional on all but the Base Standard model. Side airbags are unavailable. For '02, an MP3/CD radio is newly available, and Base Mustangs get 16-inch alloy wheels to replace 15s. The high-performance Cobra model sat out the 2002 model year, but returns in summer 2002 as an early '03. It has a supercharged 4.6 with 390 hp, 70 hp more than the '01's naturally aspirated 4.6, plus a new 6-speed manual transmission, revised seats, and minor appearance changes. Cobra comes in both body styles and is the only Mustang with independent rear suspension.
Competition
Our only Best Buy in this class, the Volkswagen New Beetle, offers interesting styling and a nice mix of comfort, performance, and economy. The New Beetle is the most practical and affordable in this class.
If raw performance is what you are after, we Recommend the fun-to-drive Acura RSX and Toyota Celica. These cars offer a lot of bang for your buck.
If raw performance is what you are after, we Recommend the fun-to-drive Acura RSX and Toyota Celica. These cars offer a lot of bang for your buck.
News
Mustang has been so popular in recent years that General Motors has finally given up trying to compete, axing its Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird "ponycars" after 2002. But even Mustang isn't immune to economic downturns and a vastly changed national mood, and year-to-year sales for the first nine months of 2001 fell 10.1 percent.
Today's "SN95" Mustang debuted for 1994 and was restyled three years ago, but its engineering roots go way back to 1979. That all changes for 2004, possibly '05, with a road-to-roof redesign known within Ford as "S197." It won't be totally new, however, employing a simpler version of the "DEW98" platform used under the reborn Thunderbird and Lincoln LS/Jaguar S-Type sedans. That means rear-wheel drive for fans of classic Detroit performance, though independent rear suspension may still be restricted to the high-performance Cobra. Styling will naturally feature trademark Mustang cues, but the overall look is said to be more dynamic. Coupes and convertibles will continue with V6 and V8 power. At least 350 hp is whispered for Cobras, as is a 6-speed manual gearbox that may also be standard in lesser models. The current 4-speed automatic transmission will likely be replaced by the 5-speed unit available in other models on this basic platform.
But before S197 appears, the popular SN95 reportedly makes a high-powered farewell with an additional model for 2003. Nicknamed "Terminator" by Ford insiders, it's basically a Cobra coupe with a supercharged V8 allegedly packing 400-plus horsepower, enough to challenge the Dodge Viper and Chevy's Corvette Z06 for title as Detroit's fastest production car. No word yet on quantities or price, but the "Super 'Stang" should cost less than the $60,000 Cobra R, which saw only 300 copies in its most recent run and was not street-legal.
Today's "SN95" Mustang debuted for 1994 and was restyled three years ago, but its engineering roots go way back to 1979. That all changes for 2004, possibly '05, with a road-to-roof redesign known within Ford as "S197." It won't be totally new, however, employing a simpler version of the "DEW98" platform used under the reborn Thunderbird and Lincoln LS/Jaguar S-Type sedans. That means rear-wheel drive for fans of classic Detroit performance, though independent rear suspension may still be restricted to the high-performance Cobra. Styling will naturally feature trademark Mustang cues, but the overall look is said to be more dynamic. Coupes and convertibles will continue with V6 and V8 power. At least 350 hp is whispered for Cobras, as is a 6-speed manual gearbox that may also be standard in lesser models. The current 4-speed automatic transmission will likely be replaced by the 5-speed unit available in other models on this basic platform.
But before S197 appears, the popular SN95 reportedly makes a high-powered farewell with an additional model for 2003. Nicknamed "Terminator" by Ford insiders, it's basically a Cobra coupe with a supercharged V8 allegedly packing 400-plus horsepower, enough to challenge the Dodge Viper and Chevy's Corvette Z06 for title as Detroit's fastest production car. No word yet on quantities or price, but the "Super 'Stang" should cost less than the $60,000 Cobra R, which saw only 300 copies in its most recent run and was not street-legal.
2002 Ford Mustang Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (V8) | Rear visibility (convertible) |
| Steering/handling | Fuel economy (V8) |
| Rear-seat room | |
| Wet-weather traction (without traction control) | |
| Rear-seat entry/exit | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| 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
Manual-transmission GT test cars averaged 15.5 mpg. Expect slightly better with V6. Base and GT models use regular-grade fuel.
| 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
Mustang has a ride-comfort edge over Camaro/Firebird, though bad pavement comes through distinctly in the stiff-riding GT models.
| 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
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.
| 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
Hard acceleration brings lots of V6 engine ruckus and, on V8s, engine and exhaust roar. Convertibles aren't uncomfortably noisy with the roof raised.
| 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
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.
| 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)
Good room for two and seats are supportive. Long doors are a hassle in tight spaces.
| 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)
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.
| 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
Meager trunk space, and convertible lacks coupe's folding rear seatback.
| 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
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.
| 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 |
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars
| Low Score | 34 | |
| Average Score | 45 | |
| High Score | 59 |
2002 Ford Mustang Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 06/14/2002
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2002 Base Standard 2-door coupe | $17,475 | $16,142 | $625 |
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| 2002 Base Deluxe 2-door coupe | $18,080 | $16,687 | $625 |
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| 2002 Base Deluxe 2-door convertible | $23,000 | $21,115 | $625 |
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| 2002 Base Premium 2-door coupe | $19,195 | $17,691 | $625 |
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| 2002 Base Premium 2-door convertible | $25,585 | $23,442 | $625 |
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| 2002 GT Deluxe 2-door coupe | $23,220 | $21,313 | $625 |
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| 2002 GT Deluxe 2-door convertible | $27,475 | $25,142 | $625 |
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| 2002 GT Premium 2-door coupe | $24,390 | $22,366 | $625 |
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| 2002 GT Premium 2-door convertible | $28,645 | $26,195 | $625 |
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| 2003 Cobra 2-door coupe | $33,125 | $30,534 | $625 |
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| 2003 Cobra 2-door convertible | $37,370 | $34,397 | $625 |
Price note: Cobra add $1000 Gas-Guzzler Tax.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Base Standard
Powertrain
3.8-liter V6 engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/cassette/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, visor mirrors, rear defogger, remote decklid release.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 225/55R16 tires, alloy wheels.
Base Deluxe adds to Base Standard:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Cruise control, 6-way power driver seat, illuminated visor mirrors (convertible), power convertible top (convertible), floormats, rear spoiler (coupe).
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: split folding rear seat (convertible).
Bright alloy wheels (convertible).
Base Premium adds to Base Deluxe:
Powertrain
4-speed automatic transmission (convertible), traction control.
Safety
Antilock brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather upholstery (convertible), Mach 460 AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, bright alloy wheels.
GT Deluxe adds to Base Premium:
Powertrain
4.6-liter V8 engine, limited-slip differential.
Comfort and Convenience Features
AM/FM/cassette/CD player.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: 4-speed automatic transmission (convertible), leather upholstery.
Fog lights, GT suspension, 245/45ZR17 tires.
GT Premium adds to GT Deluxe:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, Mach 460 AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer.
Cobra adds to GT Premium:
Powertrain
4.6-liter dohc V8 supercharged engine, 6-speed manual transmission.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather/suede upholstery, driver-seat power lumbar support.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Cobra suspension, 275/40ZR17 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Sport Appearance Group
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Base Deluxe coupe
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$125
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$112
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Leather-wrapped steering wheel, bodyside stripes, bright alloy wheels.
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Powertrain |
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4-speed automatic transmission
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Base Deluxe, Base Premium, Base Standard, GT Deluxe, GT Premium
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$815
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$725
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Std. Base Deluxe convertible. NA Cobra.
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Safety |
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Antilock brakes
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Base Deluxe
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$730
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$650
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Includes traction control. Coupe requires 4-speed automatic transmission.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Leather upholstery
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Base Deluxe convertible, Base Premium coupe, GT Deluxe
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$525
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$468
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Mach 460 AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
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Base Deluxe, GT Deluxe
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$550
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$490
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Mach 1000 sound system
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Base Premium, GT Premium
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$1,295
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$1,153
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AM/FM/CD/MP3 player
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Base Standard, Base Deluxe, GT Deluxe
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$0
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$0
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
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Spoiler delete
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Cobra
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$0
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$0
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2002 Ford Mustang Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Ford Mustang 2-door coupe | Ford Mustang 2-door convertible |
| Wheelbase, in. | 101.3 | 101.3 |
| Overall Length, in. | 183.2 | 183.2 |
| Overall Width, in. | 73.1 | 73.1 |
| Overall Height, in. | 53.1 | 53.2 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3066 | 3208 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 10.9 | 7.7 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 15.7 | 15.7 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.1 | 38.0 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.6 | 42.6 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 35.5 | 35.8 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 29.9 | 29.9 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| ohv V6 | sohc V8 | Supercharged dohc V8 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 3.8 /232 | 4.6 /281 | 4.6 /281 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 190 @ 5250 | 260 @ 5250 | 390 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 220 @ 2750 | 302 @ 4000 | 390 @ 3500 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed manual | 20/29 | 18/26 | --/-- |
| 6-speed manual | --/-- | --/-- | 16/22 |
| 4-speed automatic | 19/27 | 17/24 | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Ford Mustang 2-door coupe | Ford Mustang 2-door convertible |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 | NA |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 | NA |
| Side Impact, Driver | 3 | 2 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 3 | 3 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | None/-- | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
USA
Drivewheels:
rear-wheel drive
Also in the 2002 Ford Mustang Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
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