America auto manufacturer Ford has always been quite adept at producing sleek and sporty coupes that fly off the production lines. Take the Ford Mustang, for example. Since its 1964 introduction, the iconic Mustang provided stylish, affordable power to speed enthusiasts in the United States and beyond. Several famous Mustang models have graced the roads over the last few decades. Some of these are collector cars, like the Shelby Mustangs in the mid-60s to 1970, the 1969-1970 Boss 302 and 429 ... (full review continues below)
America auto manufacturer Ford has always been quite adept at producing sleek and sporty coupes that fly off the production lines. Take the Ford Mustang, for example. Since its 1964 introduction, the iconic Mustang provided stylish, affordable power to speed enthusiasts in the United States and beyond. Several famous Mustang models have graced the roads over the last few decades. Some of these are collector cars, like the Shelby Mustangs in the mid-60s to 1970, the 1969-1970 Boss 302 and 429 and the 1969-1970 Mach 1 Mustang. Newer Mustangs have been highly respected as well, however, such as the 2000 Cobra R Mustang the 2004 SVT Cobra, featuring a supercharger. Mustangs are generally available in fastback, convertible, or coupe models, but it was the coupe model that first made Mustang a household name. For 2012, Ford is offering a Mustang in several variants, as well as a coupe version of its popular Ford Focus.
The Ford Focus has been the brand's entry-level small sedan since its 2000 model year, and it was designed to be sold globally as it is sold in the U.S, without any major changes. For 2012, it comes in hatchback, coupe, electric, and standard sedan models, with the sedan starting at $16,500 and its electric version starting at $39,200. The Focus is known for its style, technology options, and refined engine and transmission. It was completely redesigned for the 2012 model year and comes in S, SE, SEL, and Titanium trims and competes with such vehicles as the Chevy Cruze and the Mazda 3.
The 2012 Ford Mustang comes in standard coupe, Shelby GT500, convertible, and Boss 302 variations. The standard coupe version of the '12 Mustang has a starting price of only $22,310 and achieves 19 mpg in the city and an impressive 29 mpg on the highway. The Mustang is (again this year) considered one of the best "pony cars" drivers can get for the amount of they invest. The new Mustang comes with powerful V6 or V8 engines, a Ford Sync infotainment system and extreme customization options. The standard coupe comes in V6,V6 Premium, GT, and GT Premium trims, with a Boss 302 variation (starting price $40,310) also available. The Boss 302 is new this year, and is a revival of the iconic Boss name. Also new for 2012 is adjustable effort settings for the GT models' power steering. The Ford Mustang competes against the Chevrolet Camaro and the Dodge Challenger.
With a starting price of $48,810, the 2012 Ford Shelby GT500 is a whole different animal. The GT500 has amazing performance and retro styling. It's one of the most sleek and powerful American sports cars currently on the market. It's also rarer than the traditional coupe, so drivers can feel proud to own a vehicle many others do not. The Shelby FT500 is only available in base coupe and convertible models, but it doesn't really need any other trims; the base gives drivers everything they need and desire. For the 2012 model year, the GT500 gets new, optional Recaro front seats.