Henry Ford's Getaway

In this entry, I'll feature our rented car for a day in Las Vegas during my trip in December 2011. It hails from the Far West and its nationalist nature sends hatred down rivals’ spine. (Oh Really?) Seen here with the seal of approval, I present to you the Pride of America, none other than the venerable Ford Mustang. Does it pack as much punch as it looks?

This Fifth Generation stallion was manufactured in the AutoAlliance International plant in Michigan. It’s trademark bulbous hood and sharp nose blend in seamlessly with the stunning backdrop of the Mojave Desert.

The model in question carries a 4-liter cast iron V6 lump that churns out 210bhp, a figure that doesn’t sound like much in performance car terms today. It needs to be revved hard till at least 4000rpm to keep it in the power band, to really feel the bulletproof V6 churning to feed its hardworking rear tyres. When mated to the 5-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, purists will lament its low driver engagement level, but it still holds up respectably well for Vegas’ treacherous desert straights of Mojave for most parts of the year. That said, the craving to have another go in a Mustang with this engine configuration in the near future - is close to zilch.

It came with plenty of aftermarket modifications. Handling mods to increase its structural rigidity include a rear sway bar and strut bar. Performance enhancements, including the American branded “Pypes” muffler and humongous AFE open pod air intake, were fitted to aid in much needed higher-end freeway spurts. All show and no go? Sadly in this instance, this phrase is rather appropriate.

Although winter months provide the perfect temperature for speedy runs, I was left stranded with the car on uphill climbs, struggling for torque even though the weather was perfect for optimal performance. 325nm just ain’t sufficient to hurl it’s hefty 1523kg bulk up twisties that demand supreme chassis balance and raw low end torque.

Although it’s RWD drivetrain could possibly prove tricky on tarmac engulfed by icy layers, the Mustang’s convincing traction was sufficient to instill confidence in the driver. The Ford is seen here being dismounted on Mt Charleston peak, the highest spring mountain in Southern Nevada, 56km Northwest of Las Vegas.

Appeal for muscle cars never seem to wither in the American market. With the Camaro SS by Chevrolet and Dodge’s Challenger constantly vying for the top of the podium, the Mustang still holds strong and true to its ethos, garnering more fans as the years progress. As the saying goes, the older you get, the wiser and more attractive you’ll be, and the Mustang definitely fits the bill - in the American context to be exact! Would I want one? I'm sorry folks - I'll wait for the next better player.