You probably know by now about the brand-new 2005 Mustang, the first complete redesign since distant 1979. New styling, which draws heavily on the early late-1960s Mustangs, adds 6 inches to wheelbase, 4.4 inches to overall length, about an inch to width and 1.4 inches to height vs. the previous generation. The result is a roomier 4-seat coupe and convertible cabin. Ford says front occupants gain 0.5 inch in headroom and 1.8 inches in shoulder room, while rear passengers get an extra 1.1 inches of legroom and 1.2 inches of shoulder room. Suspension retains front struts and a solid rear axle on base and GT models, but the axle gets more sophisticated three-link location. All versions boast enlarged 4-wheel disc brakes and offer optional ABS bundled with traction control. Engines are larger too. Base 'Stangs exchange a pushrod V6 for a new 200-hp overhead-cam 4.0-liter. GTs get a redesigned 4.6-liter V8 with aluminum block and 300 hp. Both engines team with 5-speed manual transmission or, at extra cost, Mustang's first 5-speed automatic. Optional head-protecting curtain side airbags are another first for this Ford. Standard features expand to include power windows and locks with remote window open/close from the keyfob. Convertibles again include a power top with glass rear window.

Other details and pricing won't be released until near the fall-2004 sales start, but we may get further information before that, so keep checking back with us. Eventually, a redesigned high-performance SVT Cobra will be added, again with independent rear suspension, but sources don't expect it until sometime in 2006. No word yet on a new-design Mach 1 model.