The 2013 Mustang with the tested 3.7-liter V6 produces 305 horsepower, is coupled with an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission.
With the noted fuel economy (23 city, 31 highway), it's a beauty, though not the more muscular, monstrous V8s that accompany the Shelby and Boss 302 versions.
No matter what, I've always been a Mustang guy -- the first car I ever bought was a 1966 edition with a 200 Sprint straight-6 and 3-speed stick.
What a difference 48 years or so can make. The 2013 Mustang with the tested 3.7-liter V6 produces 305 horsepower, is coupled with an electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission. On the highway, it's rated at 31 miles per gallon. All of that with Mustang's retro styling for under $30,000. Not bad.
Ford started something when its redesigned, previous generation Mustang hit the streets with all the throwback styling of the 1960s with new technology and 21st century muscle.
Chevy followed suit with a new old-styled Camaro and Dodge re-introduced its Charger and Challenger nameplates with MOPAR power and a retro feel. (If only AMC were still around to give us the 2013 Javelin.)
Camaro has since begun to out-sell Mustangs, which could be the onus behind the 2013 redesign, which gives the coupe an edgier look for the nose and the rear.? It's a bit of a meaner look and some purists may enjoy the previous generation's demeanor a little more.
The tested vehicle came in "Deep Impact Blue," a rich dark blue that may be my new favorite color.
One thing that can't be argued is the performance of the 305-hp powerplant. With the accompanying Pony Package ($995), which is part aesthetics and part performance (18-inch wheels and a rear spoiler) along with the optional 6-speed automatic, the V6 is plenty of engine with a lusty rumble underneath.
An optional performance package for an additional $1,995 is also available. It is designed to give the Mustang more taut handling with stiffer front springs and improved braking.
With the noted fuel economy (23 city, 31 highway), it's a beauty, though not the more muscular, monstrous V8s that accompany the Shelby and Boss 302 versions.
The interior was comfortable, but provided more of a cockpit-type feel than in previous incarnations. The spartan, old-school steering wheel was at once odd (given the abundance of controls and gadgetry on modern steering wheels) and welcome.
One thing Ford has proven over the past decade by revisiting its pony-car heritage on a literal level, is that history can be fun -- and fast.
2013 FORD MUSTANG V6: ENGINE: 3.7-liter V6
TRANSMISSION: 6-speed Selectronic automatic
HORSEPOWER: 305
FUEL ECONOMY: 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway
COLOR: Deep Impact Blue
BASE PRICE: $26,200
OPTIONS: 6-speed transmision ($1,195), Pony Pakcage ($995), anti-theft ($695). Total - $2,885.
TOTAL PRICE: $29,880