So, for my next car, I want:
3+ seats (I have a kid)
Stick shift.
Convertible.
Preferably RWD.
Under $20K.
Good to great handling.
Reasonable mileage and reasonable power.
I'm thinking about a 2005+ (current generation) Mustang V6 Convertible, used, obviously, since I'm trying not to break the bank.
Why the V6? Slightly better gas mileage in town (+2mpg), cheaper insurance.
Now, I know the V6 Mustang catches a lot of crap for being a poser-Mustang, but 210HP/240 lb.-ft TQ stock isn't bad. Most MSP owners would love 210/240, and while people are likely to point out the higher weight of the 'Stang, especially the 'vert, it has a slightly better power-to-weight ratio than the MSP, and runs on 87-octane gas.
I also know that people like to talk s*** about the Mustang's handling, and I'll admit that this is one of my biggest concerns, since I used to drive a Miata, and currently have a great suspension setup on the P5. Everything I've read says that the handling is well taken care of by such Mustang experts as Roush and Saleen on their versions, and while I'm not going to choke up the $29,000 for the Roush 427R Track Pak Kit with the supercharger, body kit, and interior, I can have the suspension from that kit for $2500 or the Saleen suspension kit for $800. Either set should make the car go around corners pretty well.
I'm not so psyched about Ford interiors or Ford quality (in general), but I had two Escorts before my run of Mazdas, and generally liked those cars. They were generally trouble-free, too! Also, there's something to be said for simplicity, and while I'd love to pick up a Speed3 or Speed6, the Mustangs make their power without forced induction, so upgrading should be easier and reliability may be better.
Also, the aftermarket for Mustangs is huge, though probably a bit smaller for the V6.
So, why not get one? Talk me out of it. Go.
3+ seats (I have a kid)
Stick shift.
Convertible.
Preferably RWD.
Under $20K.
Good to great handling.
Reasonable mileage and reasonable power.
I'm thinking about a 2005+ (current generation) Mustang V6 Convertible, used, obviously, since I'm trying not to break the bank.
Why the V6? Slightly better gas mileage in town (+2mpg), cheaper insurance.
Now, I know the V6 Mustang catches a lot of crap for being a poser-Mustang, but 210HP/240 lb.-ft TQ stock isn't bad. Most MSP owners would love 210/240, and while people are likely to point out the higher weight of the 'Stang, especially the 'vert, it has a slightly better power-to-weight ratio than the MSP, and runs on 87-octane gas.
I also know that people like to talk s*** about the Mustang's handling, and I'll admit that this is one of my biggest concerns, since I used to drive a Miata, and currently have a great suspension setup on the P5. Everything I've read says that the handling is well taken care of by such Mustang experts as Roush and Saleen on their versions, and while I'm not going to choke up the $29,000 for the Roush 427R Track Pak Kit with the supercharger, body kit, and interior, I can have the suspension from that kit for $2500 or the Saleen suspension kit for $800. Either set should make the car go around corners pretty well.
I'm not so psyched about Ford interiors or Ford quality (in general), but I had two Escorts before my run of Mazdas, and generally liked those cars. They were generally trouble-free, too! Also, there's something to be said for simplicity, and while I'd love to pick up a Speed3 or Speed6, the Mustangs make their power without forced induction, so upgrading should be easier and reliability may be better.
Also, the aftermarket for Mustangs is huge, though probably a bit smaller for the V6.
So, why not get one? Talk me out of it. Go.
