A New Pony

When talk turns to ‘grey’ imports you probably think of pre-loved vehicles from Japan that arrive in Australia for compliance. Well, here’s one of the few new imported vehicles available direct from the US via Melbourne’s Sports and Luxury Cars – the 2004 Ford Mustang GT convertible.

Unlike many imports, the ’04 Mustang has a monster character to it. The styling is unmistakably American – it resists the trend toward svelte, laid back headlights and it’s essentially the same kerb-side appearance that was released back in 1993. The ’04 GT convertible goes the next step with a large bonnet scoop, sports front and rear bumpers, fog lights, side gills, twin tailpipes and a rear spoiler. Classic style 17 inch Shelby alloys and 245/45 Goodyear Eagles also come standard on the top-line Premium package, as seen here.

There’s no mistaking this is a US muscle car.

Performance is capably delivered by the sweet SOHC 4.6 litre V8 fitted to every ’04 GT. Sure, it lacks cubic capacity when compared to some rivals but the Ford bent-eight is a bit more up-to-date. This gives a superior specific power output and a pleasant on-road driving experience.

The 4.6 uses SOHC alloy heads, EEC-V management (running an airflow meter and sequential injection), a 9.4:1 compression ratio and free-flow exhaust system. The official US power output is 194kW (260hp) at 5250 rpm along with 411Nm (302lb-ft) at 4000 rpm. A generous serve of torque is available from idle to the 5800 rpm redline.

Our test vehicle was equipped with an optional 4 speed automatic transmission that gave a very relaxed, cruisey feel – especially with the roof folded down. The ’04 GT Mustang convertible is not intended to annihilate any competition you might encounter at the traffic lights on a Saturday night – the factory supercharged Mustang is the weapon of choice for those duties! (See Mustang with Kick)

Our test vehicle had only test kilometres on the odometer and we were very impressed by its overall refinement – a far cry from the early versions of the same chassis. Craig Dean from Melbourne’s Sports and Luxury Cars says his company’s left to right-hand-drive conversion now incorporates different steering components to those used previously – this gives better on-centre steering feel and makes the car wieldier.

The ride is much improved over early Mustang models and is well suited for everyday use. The suspension layout remains the same as when the 1993 Fox 4 chassis was introduced – there’s MacPherson struts at the front and a four-link coil sprung rear with a live axle(!). Note that the GT scores a rear swaybar in addition to the across-the-range front swaybar.

Traction control comes fitted as standard - this lets you get some wheelspin happening, so the ‘Stang is still good for showpony-ing...

On paper the brakes are nothing special – 274mm ventilated front and 254mm solid rear discs with ABS. On the other hand, the ’04 GT convertible is not as heavy as we expected – around 1500kg.

Inside, the ’04 Mustang GT is comfortable and flattering but its space utilisation is dreadful. The leather seats in our Premium-spec test vehicle are very comfortable and easy to step in and out of. In contrast, the two rear seats are torture - knee, foot and headroom (when the roof is up!) are poor. The Mustang’s boot is a decent size and the trim cover (for the retracted convertible roof) folds into a shape that fits snugly inside.

Standard features for the GT include cruise control (with buttons on the steering wheel), drilled pedals, an electric driver’s seat, leather steering wheel, dual airbags, electric mirrors and windows and simple HVAC controls. Our test vehicle was also fitted with an optional Mach 1000 sound system comprising a 6 stack CD, four high-output amplifiers and dual sub-woofers! This photo shows the amplifier and sub assembly that bolts into the boot. The gauge cluster contains a voltmeter and oil pressure gauge in addition to the usuals – unfortunately, there are numerous dashboard reflections. Climate control is not available, even as an option.

The Mustang’s convertible roof is electrically operated and there are two locking handles at the top of the windscreen header rail. It’s not as sophisticated as a new Mercedes or Peugeot convertible mechanism, but it is better than you’ll find on a cheapie convertible. The fabric roof is double-lined and the glass rear window is equipped with a demister.

Okay, so you want a 2004 Mustang GT convertible to park in your home garage?

Well, this is not a car that can be assessed on a value for money basis – it’s for people that decide they want a new US-spec Mustang and nothing will change their mind! A new RHD converted top-of-the-line Mustang GT convertible such as this will set you back a cool AUD$120,000 – give or take a little bit.

How much can you afford to pay to ‘ride the pony’?

Contact: Sports and Luxury Cars +61 3 9753 5799 www.sportsluxurycars.com.au