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2008 Ford Mustang Convertible
2008 Ford Mustang Convertible
Galloping Under an Open Sky
With ample power and unmistakable style, the Ford Mustang Convertible can provide thrills with the top up or down.
The Ford Mustang Convertible is available with either a V6 or V8 engine and the choice of a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. The Mustang is an excellent value, offering more style and performance than most vehicles in its price range. It seats four, but the back seat is cramped.
The Ford Mustang Convertible features a power-operated top with a glass rear window that does a decent job of sealing out noise. The top lowers and raises at the push of a button, but you’ll have to fight with a stiff set of latches to secure and release it. Unlike some upscale convertibles, the Mustang drop-top shimmies, shakes and rattles over bumps due to the car’s lack of a fixed roof, which compromises its structural rigidity. The folding top also takes away a good amount of trunk space when it’s down.
The current generation incorporates elements from the original ’60s Mustangs: a long hood, short rear end, three-element taillamps, side scoops and a blacked-out front grille with a galloping-pony emblem. The interior has similar throwback appeal.
The redesign was more than skin-deep, however, with wheels pushed farther toward the corners of the car and a longer wheelbase, both of which provide better stability and additional passenger room.
Recent updates to the Ford Mustang Convertible include an auxiliary jack for connecting MP3 players and other portable audio devices to the car’s stereo system. Satellite radio capability and DVD-based navigation are optional.
The base Ford Mustang Convertible has a 210-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 engine. Performance buffs will appreciate the Ford Mustang GT Convertible with its all-aluminum, 4.6-liter V8 engine that generates a healthy 300 hp and 320 pound-feet of tire-burning torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on both versions, while a five-speed automatic is optional. All Mustang models are rear-wheel drive.
A solid axle continues to drive the rear wheels. This is an antiquated but cost-effective setup, but the rest of the suspension was completely revised in 2005. It affords sharp handling with a ride that’s on the rough side, but not unduly so.
Disc brakes are fitted at all four corners, with antilock technology standard on the GT and optional on the base car. Traction control is included on GT versions and is bundled with the antilock brakes as an option on V6 models. This system allows a bit more wheel slippage for the benefit of enthusiastic drivers, yet it will engage more aggressively in icy, snowy or wet conditions.
A handful of options are offered, none of which are particularly high-tech. Of note is the ear-splitting 1,000-watt Shaker audio system with MP3-playback capability.
Is the Ford Mustang Convertible for You?
| Buy the Mustang Convertible if | You’ve always wanted a classic Mustang ragtop but prefer a new model and all of the advances it brings; you want maximum style and speed for the money; the idea of buying a distinctly American concept appeals to you. |
| Keep Looking if | You prefer more sophistication and refinement; you need a bigger back seat; fuel economy is a top priority. |
| Who Fits? | There is a back seat for two, but hip, shoulder and legroom are limited, and accessing it is a chore, even for kids. The front seating area can feel claustrophobic due to the low roofline and small side windows, but it comfortably accommodates occupants of all sizes. |
| Closest Competitors | |
| Did You Know? |
The original Mustang was unveiled on April 17, 1964, at the New York World’s Fair. It was one of the most successful new-car launches ever: More than one million Mustangs were sold within 18 months of its introduction. |
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