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2007 Ford Mustang Full Review
Date Published: 6/26/08
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2007 Ford Mustang Review
High-performance Shelby GT and Shelby GT500 variants join base and GT models in the Mustang stable for 2007. The Shelby GT comes only as a coupe, other models are also available as convertibles with a power fabric top and heated glass rear window. Base versions have a 210-hp V6, GTs a 300-hp V8, Shelby GTs a 319-hp V8, and Shelby GT500s a supercharged 500-hp V8. Base, GT, and Shelby GT are available with a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission. Shelby GT500 has a 6-speed manual. ABS and traction control are standard on V8 models, optional on base models. No antiskid system is available.

Front side airbags with head and torso protection are standard on GT500, optional on the others. Base and GT models come in Deluxe and Premium trim. A Pony Package for base Premium models includes GT-style grille-mounted fog lamps, rear spoiler, and 17-inch wheels. New for '07 is a California Special Package for GT Premiums that includes unique trim and 18-inch wheels. Heated front seats are newly available options on base and GT models. A digital audio jack is newly standard. Coupes have split folding rear seatbacks. Leather upholstery is standard on GT Premium, Shelby GT and Shelby GT500, optional on others.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. The Sporty/Performance Car class consists of two-seat roadsters, 4-cyl hatchbacks, and V8 muscle cars. Regardless of configuration, all have an emphasis on affordable performance.

Our Best Buys include the Mazda MX-5 and Scion tC. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Mustang, Mini Cooper, and Nissan 350Z.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Mini Cooper, Nissan 350Z, and Saturn Sky.
News
Mustang's long-rumored restyle has now slipped back to the 2010 models, two years later than first planned. Ford's well-publicized financial woes get the blame, but won't keep Mustang from getting a new V8. Timing is unclear, but the engine will be part of Ford's new "Hurricane" family, with a 5.8- or 6.2-liter version most likely for the ponycar. As for the restyle, one source projects a much sleeker and less retro look, though the classic long-hood/short-deck proportions will remain. Meantime, Ford is promising more special editions to keep Mustang sales moving. Stay tuned.
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2007 Ford Mustang Road Test
Pros Cons
Acceleration Automatic-transmission performance (V6)
Handling/roadholding Interior materials
Rear-seat entry/exit
Rear-seat room
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
6 8 7 9 6.4

Test V6 coupe did a brisk 6.9 sec 0-60 mph with automatic, but that transmission dulls passing response with reluctant downshifts. And V6 or V8, Mustang's automatic lacks a manual shift gate. GTs are fast--Ford says around 5.2 sec 0-60 with either transmission--but V8 feels a bit weak below 3000 rpm, needs manual transmission for best overall performance. GT500 strong at any speed, though not as brutally fast as other cars that claim 500 hp. Convertibles weigh some 175 lb more than like-equipped coupes, so are a bit slower. No opportunity yet to test Shelby GT.
Fuel Economy

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
5 4 4 4 5.5

Automatic-transmission V6 coupe averaged 19.3 mpg in tests that included gas-eating performance runs. Manual-transmission GT coupes averaged 14.6-16.3 mpg overall. Test automatic GT coupe averaged 14.9. Test GT convertible with manual transmission averaged 19.2 mpg in mostly highway driving. Test GT500 averaged 14.1 mpg. V6 and GT use regular-grade fuel, GT500s require premium.
Ride Quality

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
4 4 4 3 4

Base models prone to slight float over large moguls. GTs only a bit firmer. Both absorb small bumps with little shock, but can transmit sharp pavement breaks, and some testers noticed wander along rain grooves. GT500 firmer on all surfaces, pounds over some bumps. Convertibles impressively tight, solid on most surfaces.
Steering/Handling/Braking

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
6 8 8 8 8

V6s have good cornering moves, but some testers fault slower steering, more body lean than a sporty car should have. Sure-footed GTs have nicely weighted steering, impressive dry-road grip, modest lean that builds progressively with cornering speed. GT500s sharper still. Fine stopping control for all.
Quietness

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
5 4 3 2 3

Wind rush reasonably muffled, even in convertibles, but there's marked engine noise and coarse-surface tire thrum. V6 growls, booms unpleasantly as revs rise. V8 has throaty muscle car tone. GT500 emits supercharger whine--enjoyable to most testers--during aggressive acceleration.
Controls

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
4 4 4 4 5.5

Main gauges in chrome-ringed tunnels can be hard to read by day, have overly styled graphics. Manual shifting awkward with console cupholders in use. Cabin has eye appeal, but too much hard plastic even at this price level; console lid, door inserts among the few padded surfaces. Switchgear feels cut-rate. Intermittent dashboard squeaks plagued two test coupes. GT500's interior no more special than GT. Convertible-top roof latches are balky, require fair muscle to lock or unlock.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
6 6 6 6 5.1

Good head and leg room, but cozy feel from low seats, high dashtop and windowsills. Driver comfort enhanced by standard tilt steering wheel, height-adjustable seat, nicely contoured backrest though knees collide easily with hard door panels and console. Shoulder belts don't adjust for height. Long doors complicate tight-quarters entry/exit. Outward vision good in coupes, though GT500's massive spoiler obscures view directly aft; convertible top leaves wide over-the-shoulder blind spots.
Room/Comfort (rear)

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
2 2 2 2 1.1

Inhospitable for adults. Little room, skimpy seat, back-straining entry/exit.
Cargo Room

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
2 2 1 2 2.5

Cargo space good for the class, but not by absolute standards. Trunklids open wide on nonintruding hinges, but aperture size, shape preclude bulky items. Cabin storage sparse; door map pockets almost useless.
Value within Class

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
6 8 7 6 6.2

Our Recommended label applies mainly to the GT versions, but V6 Mustangs also have some bang-for-the-buck appeal. They rival some sporty imports on price, though not agility, refinement, or overall quality. GTs deliver great "go" for relatively little dough. GT500 offers even higher performance at a reasonable price, but its interior isn't as special as the rest of the car. Convertibles blend value, verve, and nominal four-seat practicality. Mustang's main letdowns are low-rent cabin appointments and occasional workmanship lapses.
Total Score

Base Premium coupe, auto. GT Premium coupe, man. GT Premium convertible, auto. Shelby GT500 coupe Class Average
46 50 46 46 47.3
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score
41
Average Score
47
High Score
57
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2007 Ford Mustang Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/19/2007
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
Base Deluxe 2-door coupe $19,250 $17,916 $745
Base Deluxe 2-door convertible $24,075 $22,257 $745
Base Premium 2-door coupe $20,245 $18,810 $745
Base Premium 2-door convertible $25,070 $23,153 $745
GT Deluxe 2-door coupe $25,695 $23,716 $745
GT Deluxe 2-door convertible $30,520 $28,058 $745
GT Premium 2-door coupe $26,875 $24,777 $745
GT Premium 2-door convertible $31,700 $29,120 $745
Shelby GT500 2-door coupe $40,930 $37,018 $745
Shelby GT500 2-door convertible $45,755 $41,312 $745
Price note: Shelby GT price and equipment not available at time of publication. Shelby GT500 adds $1300 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 Deluxe
Powertrain
4.0-liter V6 engine, 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Dual front airbags, 4-wheel disc brakes, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, power steering, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat (coupe), power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, MP3 player input jack, digital clock, tachometer, variable-intermittent wipers, power convertible top (convertible), rear defogger, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, 215/65R16 tires, alloy wheels.
Base Premium adds to Base Deluxe:
Comfort and Convenience Features
6-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, upgraded sound system, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
GT Deluxe adds to Base Deluxe:
Powertrain
4.6-liter V8 engine, traction control, limited-slip differential.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
6-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear spoiler, fog lights, 235/55ZR17 tires.
GT Premium adds to GT Deluxe:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, upgraded sound system.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Shelby GT500 adds to GT Premium:
Powertrain
5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine, 6-speed manual transmission.
Safety
Front side airbags, uprated brakes.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Aluminum interior trim.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Sport suspension, 255/45ZR18 front tires, 285/40ZR18 rear tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Exterior Sport Appearance Pkg.
Base
$295
$257
Rear spoiler, body stripes. NA Base Standard.
Interior Sport Appearance Pkg.
Base, GT
$345
$300
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/aluminum spokes, aluminum pedals, bright shift knob, unique interior trim. NA w/Interior Upgrade Pkg.
Interior Upgraded Pkg.
Base, GT Deluxe/Premium
$460
$400
Aluminum interior trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel (Base), changeable instrument-lighting color, unique interior trim.
Comfort Group
Base Premium, GT Deluxe/Premium
$575
$500
Heated front seats, 6-way power passenger seat, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass.
V6 Pony Pkg.
Base Premium
$750
$653
Unique interior and exterior trim, bodyside stripes, badging, fog lights, rear spoiler, 235/55ZR17 tires, bright alloy wheels.
Premier Trim Pkg.
Base Premium, GT Deluxe/Premium
$395
$344
Aluminum pedals, unique interior trim. Requires Interior Upgrade Pkg., leather upholstery.
GT Appearance Pkg.
GT Deluxe/Premium
$245
$213
Hood scoop, unique engine cover, bright exhaust tips.
California Special Pkg.
GT Premium
$1,895
$1,649
Side scoops, bodyside stripes, unique interior and exterior trim, 235/50ZR18 tires, polished alloy wheels.
Premium Interior Trim Pkg.
Shelby
$595
$518
Upgraded interior trim, aluminum pedals, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass.
Red Stripe Appearance Pkg.
Shelby coupe
$1,650
$1,436
Premium Interior Trim Pkg. plus unique interior and exterior trim.
Powertrain
5-speed automatic transmission
Base
$995
$866
GT Deluxe/Premium
$645
$561
Special axle ratio
GT
$100
$87
NA w/5-speed automatic transmission.
Safety
Front side airbags
Base, GT Deluxe/Premium
$380
$330
Antilock brakes
Base
$775
$674
Includes traction control.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
Base Premium, GT Premium, Shelby
$1,995
$1,736
Base, GT require antilock brakes.
Leather upholstery
Base Premium, GT Deluxe
$695
$605
Heated front seats
Base Premium, GT Deluxe/Premium
$250
$218
Base Premium, GT Deluxe require leather upholstery.
6-way power driver seat
Base Deluxe
$365
$318
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer
Base Premium, GT Premium, Shelby
$1,295
$1,127
GT Deluxe
$1,770
$1,540
Includes Shaker 1000 sound system.
Satellite radio
Base Premium, GT Premium
$195
$170
Base Deluxe, GT Deluxe require AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer.
Wireless cell phone link
Base/GT coupe
$395
$344
Remote engine start
Base, GT
$250
$218
Cargo net
Base, GT
$55
$48
Rubber floormats
Base, GT Deluxe/Premium
$75
$57
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Racing stripes
Base, GT
$395
$344
Theft-deterrent system w/alarm
Base, GT Deluxe/Premium
$325
$283
Front car cover
Base Deluxe, Base Premium, GT Deluxe, GT Premium
$120
$99
NA Shelby GT500.
Full car cover
Base, GT
$235
$192
Shelby
$375
$326
Cloth convertible top
Base convertible, GT Deluxe/Premium convertible
$230
$200
Std. Shelby GT convertible.
Convertible top boot
convertible
$160
$139
NA Shelby GT500.
Alloy fuel-filler door
Base, GT
$135
$117
Chrome exhaust tips
Base
$65
$37
GT
$125
$86
NA Shelby GT500.
Rear spoiler delete
GT Deluxe/Premium
$0
$0
Stripe delete
Base, Shelby
$0
$0
Base requires V6 Pony Pkg. or Exterior Sport Appearance Pkg.
Mud guards
Base, GT
$80
$69
Spinner hub caps
Base Deluxe
$50
$44
Base Premium, GT Deluxe/Premium
$85
$68
Base Premium requires V6 Pony Pkg. GT requires 18-inch alloy wheels.
Wheel locking kit
Base Deluxe, Base Premium, GT Deluxe, GT Premium
$50
$44
Std. Shelby GT500.
Bright alloy wheels
Base Premium
$325
$283
GT Deluxe/Premium
$195
$170
18-inch alloy wheels
GT Deluxe/Premium
$925
$805
Includes 235/50ZR18 tires.
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2007 Ford Mustang Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Ford Mustang 2-door coupe Ford Mustang 2-door convertible
Wheelbase, in. 107.1 107.1
Overall Length, in. 187.6 187.6
Overall Width, in. 73.9 73.9
Overall Height, in. 55.4 55.7
Curb Weight, lbs. 3373 3476
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 13.1 9.7
Standard Payload, lbs. -- --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 16.0 16.0
Seating Capacity 4 4
Front Head Room, in. 38.6 38.8
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 42.7 42.7
Rear Head Room, in. 34.7 36.3
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 30.3 30.3
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  sohc V6 sohc V8 sohc V8 Supercharged dohc V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 4.0 /245 4.6 /281 4.6 /281 5.4 /330
Horsepower @ rpm. 210 @ 5250 300 @ 5750 319 @ 5750 500 @ 6000
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 240 @ 3500 320 @ 4500 330 @ 4500 480 @ 4500
Availability Standard Standard Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
       
5-speed manual 19/28 17/25 NA/NA --/--
6-speed manual --/-- --/-- --/-- 15/21
5-speed automatic 18/26 17/23 NA/NA --/--
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
Rollover Resistance 5 NA
Side Impact, Driver 4 NA
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 5/60,000 5/100,000 on Ford Focus only. 8/100,000 on Escape Hybrid components.
Bumper-to-bumper 3/36,000 --
Corrosion 5/Unlimited --
Free roadside assistance 5/60,000 --
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

Tester's Comments
Vehicle Evaluated:  2007 Ford Mustang
Trim Level:  GT Premium
Arrival Date:  11/07/2006
Engine:  sohc V8
Bodystyle:  2-door coupe
Transmission:  5-speed manual
4WD/AWD:  No
Base Price:  $26,455
Price as Tested:  $30,505
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  6303
Mileage at End of Test:  6494
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  10.256 gals.
 

Major Options:  Interior Upgrade Package, Active Anti-Theft System, Wheel Locking Kit, Front Seat Side Airbags, Limited Slip Axle, Sirius Satellite Radio, Comfort Group, 18-inch Premium Aluminum Wheels, Premier Trim Package (Black Floor Mats)

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  18.66 mpg (what's this?)