Fastest Ford Mustang Part 8 : 2011 Mustang V6 Premium

Once the 2007 Mustang GT V6 models began challenging vintage with a quarter mile race about 15 seconds, it was clear Ford had great performance in mind for your model database engine. In the premium V6 2011, Ford delivered an output of 305 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, capable of going from 0-60 in 5.1 seconds according to Motor Trend tests. the quarter mile was ran 13.7 seconds at 102.0 mph. Motor Trend raised a valid question in his essay: "I could have had a V8, but why?"

Although most of the hype surrounding the 2011 Ford Mustang focuses on fantastic new 412-hp, 5.0-liter V-8 GT-our test which can be read here-Ford made absolutely sure not to forget the volume V-6 model, which now has a high-tech 305-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 as standard equipment. Yes, 305 ponies in a base Mustang, or 10 less than in last year's GT. Given that the last test standard Ford pony car left us almost as hot as a bath in a frozen lake, we tempered our enthusiasm when you slide behind the wheel of this new. Luckily for us, and for all fans of the Ford Mustang made its task. The 2011 Mustang V-6 is a surprisingly good car.

Enjoying a Revelation

To put it in perspective, previous V-6 Mustangs were always plagued by a thrashy SOHC V-6 4.0-liter with a meager 210 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. The new engine of a top-end variant of all-aluminum DOHC V-6 Duratec Ford architecture with variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust cam-produces 305 hp at 6,500 rpm and 280 foot-pounds at 4,250 rpm. Not as strong at low revs as the V-8-or so fiercely bellows, but the mill quickly turned to its redline of 7,000 rpm with a hoarse howl emanating from its dual exhaust outlets three inches; only a little effort is audible at the top of the rev range. Regular unleaded driven and able to return 19 miles per gallon in the city and up to 31 mpg on the highway with the optional automatic six-speed transmission ($ 995), this is something impressive.

Tied with our test equipment it is driven a new V-6 Mustang with standard six-speed manual to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and the quarter mile in 14 flat at 104 mph. That's more than one second in both tests than the previous model V-6 and just half a second or so steps of the 2010 fastest GT that we tested. The 3520-pound Mustang V-6 is more important, is 0.5 seconds faster than the 3800-pound Chevy Camaro V-6, both measures-cue the chirping of the peanut gallery and Ford also exceeds the one little lighter and more powerful V-6 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. A set of wheels 19 inch painted black sharp wrapped in Pirelli P Zeros optional size 255 / 40ZR-19, as in the GT-traction meant that the line was not a problem.

Back-Road Surprise

But we knew that the 2011 car would be faster than last year's model; just we do not expect Ford to mark the entertainment value so high. All 2011 V-6 models sport revised suspension setting a limited slip differential standard large brakes and 11.5 inches in the front, 11.8 in the rear, and our test also had Ford package preinstalled return ($ 1,995), which will be available in late summer and essentially brings the car to GT spec. In addition to the aforementioned gum Pirelli ($ 360 each) and 19-inch wheels, the kit includes the updated GT shocks, springs and stabilizer bars; optional V-6 3.31: 1 rear axle (2.73: 1 ring and pinion is standard); GT brake calipers with pads updated; a strut on the front tower; a control system stability with a more liberal revised sport mode; and a pair of unique badges.

The result is a sharper more balanced set that is an absolute blast to pull through triangles. The V-6 may be lighter than the new GT only 60 pounds, but the difference is felt more from the driver's seat; It is more agile and neutral handling, with a surprising amount of feedback power steering rack. Despite the disposal of solid shaft, ride our tester felt satisfied and controlled, with little or no discomfort in hard cornering rough pavement.

Let's say the address is a bit too light for our liking, and suspension tuning made by an occasional ass-a surprise out for sudden changes of direction at high speed. But we can not complain large numbers leagues: a stop 152 feet from 70 mph and a neck-straining 0.95g around the skid pad, which slightly better 2011 GT and approach things much more expensive. I also did not notice any brake fade securities, which should contain pretty well even if you plan to hit the track regularly. (We suggest the frequent use of the head of a V-6 Mustang? I think we have done.)

V-6 manual transmission is rated at 19 mpg city and 29 on the highway. Only we got 18 mpg over 300 miles which was quite aggressive running through canyons of Southern California, but we have a better figure when we try one back home and factor in some normal routes.

It's about time

With extensive changes since last year to feed the 2010 Mustang GT to a win in a three-way with SS Camaro and Dodge Challenger R / T, we are thrilled to see Ford spread love with the V-6 model. We did not get a chance to test the car base with normal suspension, but $ 22,995 to start, the 2011 Mustang V-6 is the least expensive way to get rear-wheel drive and 300 hp; Based on 2010 Camaros $ 23,530, and the Genesis Coupe with 3.8-liter V-6 starts at $ 25.750. The Dodge Challenger SE starts at $ 23.460, but is so grossly outmatched as to be easily dismissed from the conversation.

Our Grabber Blue Mustang was dressed with premium cut, that $ 26.695 to start networking hidden leather seats and steering wheel, audio system Shaker 500 booming, and various chrome and aluminum detailing, among other amenities. It is also offered outside the security package ($ 395) with wheel locks and burglar alarm; Comfort Package ($ 595) with power driver's seat with six positions and heaters for the front seats; performance package; and $ 995 Mustang Club of America package that includes a grill blingy stainless steel billet, fog lights, flat black stripes on the sides of the body, a similar thing between the taillights, a prominent spoiler, exclusive 18-inch wheels , and several other bits. Total: about $ 30,675.

Definitely I recommend the premium model because inside thick plastic base is boring and unattractive, but we're fine with skipping the MCA package; who could attract attention at the local Steak 'n Shake, but it's a bit too much for our taste. Loaded with additional options such as navigation ($ 2,340), a glass roof ($ 1,995), an audio update Shaker 1000 ($ 1.295), and xenon headlights ($ 595), the V-6 model could easily climb spent $ 35,000, at which we'd remind you that the GT starts at $ 30.495 and the new 5.0-liter V-8 is very, very good. But given the state of this car as the volume model, we guarantee legions of buyers will be satisfied with the Mustang V-6 pile.