Ford Mustang GT

The 2005 Ford Mustang GT was far more than just a new model - it was a statement. A drumbeat from Ford to all car enthusiasts: the legend lives on. And uncompromisingly so. With the fifth Mustang generation (internal code: S197), Ford broke away from the soft-edged design of its predecessors and created something that was as new as it was familiar: the retro Mustang.

For the first time since the 1970s, a Mustang was deliberately reminiscent of the original from 1964. Designer Sid Ramnarace and the team under chief designer J Mays were clearly inspired by the fastback icons of the late 1960s: Bulky front end, triple tail lights, side intakes - it's all there. The S197 platform was a completely new development, with rear-wheel drive again for the first time and designed for sportiness.

The GT was powered by the tried-and-tested 4.6-liter V8 from the „Modular“ engine family - with a good 300 hp at 5,750 rpm and a torque of 434 Nm. This put the GT back on a par with tradition, not only acoustically but also in terms of driving dynamics. A manual 5-speed gearbox or optional automatic transmission transferred the power to the rear wheels. The chassis was co-developed by Ford Racing and featured McPherson struts at the front and a rigid axle at the rear - purist but effective.

Compared to its direct predecessors (SN95 and New Edge), the S197 was a leap in quality: better materials, noticeably higher torsional rigidity, more safety features. Particularly noteworthy was the new body structure with „hydroformed“ front carriers - a first in the segment. Inside, there were lovingly designed retro elements, including round instruments with chrome rings, a deep dashboard and optional ambient lighting.

The Mustang GT quickly became a favorite of the press and fans: authentic, affordable, emotional. In the USA, it was the best-selling coupé in its class in 2005. At the same time, it became the basis for many special models - including the Shelby GT500, Boss 302, the Saleen S281 and Roush conversions.

But 2005 was also a cinematic comeback: the new Mustang was featured in „The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift“ and appeared in numerous music videos, games and series. It was cool again - without any effort.

The design remained largely unchanged until 2009, underlining its clarity and recognizability. Today, the 2005 Mustang GT is a popular youngtimer with potential - solid, powerful and already a classic in the making.