Mustang keeps its fans, both young and old

This is certainly a vehicle with both name and visible recognition.

The Ford Mustang is revered by an older generation that has fond memories of its proud past, and young people today admire the vehicle for its classic good looks and performance.

Introduced in the mid-1960s, the Mustang quickly gained widespread appeal and that popularity amazingly has remained for more than four decades.

Its nostalgic look, a reputation for performance, and the strong name appeal continues to make the Mustang a popular choice among car buyers.  

Driving a distinctive 2010 Mustang GT around for a week in December it was hard not to notice the many people who would stare and point at this attractive coupe. Admirers were numerous and their ages quite varied.

The Mustang does hold a certain mystique, even without a visual look. Simply turn the ignition key and that familiar roar of the engine and its exhaust is immediately identifiable.

Despite its reputation as a “muscle car,” I found the 2010 version disappointing in the performance category. And that was hard to believe, since I was not driving the V-6 model, this was the 4.6-liter, V-8 with 315 horsepower.

I was prepared for a week of riding the equivalent of a wild stallion, yet instead was behind the wheel of a more subdued steed that needed some coaxing. The Mustang lacked the expected compelling power.   Yet equipped with a standard five-speed manual transmission that slid through the gears with ease, the Mustang was still fun to drive. A five-speed automatic is available for those who prefer not to be shifting gears.  

Ford decided to do some remodeling this year, a first since 2005. Mustang aficionados will recognize the exterior changes, most notably an overall compressed look, a newly designed front grille that carries the legendary Mustang badge, and restyled taillights.

The exterior changes may have their detractors, but it’s hard to argue with the interior alterations. Ford added an appealing chrome trim and used better overall material that has a soft-touch quality. The gauges are now larger and easier to access.

The Mustang GT provides solid road handling and a firm ride with little road absorption. This rear-wheel drive coupe grips the road just fine and brakes with assurance.

Most drivers will appreciate the abundant leg and headroom in a front cabin that sits a bit low. The seating is comfortable up front, which is where one wants to be.

Any adult who resides in the backseat will be cramped and unhappy. Entry and exit are not pleasing, either. However, cargo space is good for a coupe.

Price: Starting at $30,995

Mileage estimate: 18 mpg city, 20 mpg highway

Power: 4.6-liter, V-8 engine with 315 horsepower

Standard features include:

Traction control; stability control; keyless entry; power locks, windows, mirrors; rear seat pass-thru; adjustable steering wheel; intermittent wipers

Where to buy

Get it here:

Auburn Ford Lincoln Mercury

Where:

1650 Grass Valley Highway, Auburn

Call: (800) 350-6591

On the Web: auburnflm.com