If you've already gone through our Instagram account, I've certainly been scolded for two or three curses – luckily, and so to speak, they didn't have any effect. Perhaps like many of you, from an early age I got used to traveling behind the wheel of dream cars through the pages of Autohoje, Turbo and other specialty magazines.
Now, after all these years, already a grown man – except in the eyes of my grandmother (…), I am faced with the possibility of actually traveling in the cars I once dreamed of.
Well said, the day we founded Razão Automóvel! There are days when I rejoice in this decision, and this past week I have had several moments like this. One was behind the wheel of the new Ford Mustang – the other was behind the wheel of a German. A date that had everything to go well. And ran.
Ford Mustang Fastback 5.0 V8 Vignale
It wasn't long after 10 am when I boarded the new Ford Mondeo Vignale (also presented that day) heading for Évora. It was there that the new Ford Mustang awaited us. Next to me was a colleague from the Diário Digital. None of us could 'hide' our teeth in our mouths knowing in advance what awaited us: the new Mustang.
It was finally time to jump into the Mustang's saddle
Arrived in Évora, there was the new Ford Mustang waiting for me in fastback (coupé) and convertible (cabriolet) versions, perfectly aligned and available in 5.0 V8 (421hp and 530Nm) and 2.3 Ecoboost (317hp and 432Nm) engines. Ironically, the encounter with this sinner took place at the Convento do Espinheiro Hotel & Spa, once a place of devotion, discipline and good customs. Values that the new Ford Mustang hardly exalts…
Looking at the table where the keys to the available Mustangs lay, I couldn't help it! I managed a devious smile and picked up the keys that said "fastback 5.0 V8". I did it before anyone else did it for me. Finally alone, me and a true American muscle car.
The Alentejo plains proved to be the ideal place to moderately explore the potential of the new Ford Mustang. Coming from the States, this model feels at home on the long straights that surround the city of Évora. Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h is accomplished in just 4.8 seconds and the top speed extends beyond 250km/h. Did I reach that speed? I just say this: I hope the authorities don't know where I live…
It's stunning how the new Ford Mustang picks up speed. But more than pure speed, it's the way it gets there that impresses me. Always with the deep and constant snore of the V8 making a point of reminding us that it's better to be sensible. Mistakes pay dearly… fines too.
Although the new Ford Mustang was created in the USA, it feels comfortable in the curves and counter-curves of the old continent. The steering isn't the most communicative we've ever experienced but it allows for a correct reading of the front axle.
Completed the first straight in the blink of an eye, I approached the first curve in a mixture of excitement and nervousness, "beware Guilherme because you are driving an American!" I said to myself. False alarm. There is no need to be afraid.
The rear axle, on the other hand, perfectly fulfills its role: managing the 421 hp of power in the straights and generating sufficient grip in the corners in support. Always predictable, despite its weight and power, the new Ford Mustang doesn't trip the driver up. McPherson suspensions at the front, the rear axle with integral link suspensions and the bodywork 28 percent stiffer compared to the previous generation are the main culprits for this so “European” behavior. Well done ‘murica!
Ford Mustang Fastback 5.0 V8 Vignale
Available bodies and equipment
The new Ford Mustang is available with fastback and convertible-style bodywork, with manual or six-speed automatics, featuring classic design elements including three-bar taillights, trapezoidal signature grille, and a cog-like front of shark.
Ford began production of the first Mustang to European specifications at its plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, making it available in 10 exterior colors and standard 19” wheels, automatic HID headlights, dual air conditioning zone, LED taillights, and an aerodynamic rear diffuser.
Standard equipment also includes a sound system with nine speakers and SYNC 2 connectivity system, with voice control, connected to an 8-inch color touch screen.
Ford Mustang Convertible 2.3 Ecoboost
Price
The Ford Mustang is exclusively available to order at the new FordStore spaces, which opened primarily in European metropolitan areas. The first copies will reach mainland dealers from July and UK dealers from October.
Prices in Portugal start at 46 750 euros (version 2.3 Ecoboost fastback) and end at 93 085 euros (version GT 5.0 V8 convertible) – See the full price list here: Price List Ford Mustang July 2015.
7 facts about the new Ford Mustang
• The new Ford Mustang V8 5.0 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds, making it the fastest high-volume Ford model ever proposed in Europe;
• With the new 2.3 EcoBoost engine, Mustang accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds and consumes 8.0 liters/100 km with CO2 emissions of 179 g/km*;
• More than 2,200 customers in Europe have already ordered the new Mustang, both in fastback and convertible versions, units that are expected to reach dealers in continental Europe in July and in the United Kingdom in October;
• Ford Mustang enhances driving pleasure through Selectable Driving Modes: Normal, Sport+, Track and Snow/Wet;
• Ford confirms the integration of Track Apps such as Launch Control to optimize performance in a straight line, accelerometer to record acceleration forces, and Line Lock system to warm up the rear tires;
• Performance and driving dynamics have been fine-tuned to meet European customer expectations. Improved suspensions, stiffer chassis and lighter materials increased balance and acceleration, ensuring G-forces of 0.97 in cornering;
• Ford will build the new Mustang for Europe at the Flat Rock plant in Michigan.
Ford Mustang Fastback 5.0 V8 Vignale
I hope to see many Ford Mustangs 'riding' across the Alentejo plains in a few months. The landscapes are grateful…