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Mustang and me

This month, Ford debuted its next generation of the iconic Mustang. The new model introduces a number of improvements to the ever-evolving original pony car. Some of those changes will bring back options that perhaps predated their time in other generations. For example, the Mustang will feature an optional turbocharged four-cylinder eco-boost engine, a similar concept that first appeared on the SVO Mustang. The car will now also come with an independent rear suspension, a feature seen on some SVT Cobra in the past. Now obviously these features will be more refined and efficient than their predecessors. However, the story is still there.

The anticipation of the new Mustang reminded me of my own history with America’s automobile. I have been the proud owner of two Mustangs from two different generations. These cars helped me understand the obsession and desire that surround these machines. Without further ado, here are some thoughts on older Mustangs.

1990 Ford Mustang LX 5.0

My first Mustang was a 1990 LX with a 5.0 V8. For those less into the cult of the fox body, a 5.0 LX is the same as the GT without the fantastic ’80s body kit. This car was fast for its age and by far the most custom vehicle I have ever owned. till the date. I’d like to argue that my modifications were tasteful, but I’m not here to boast about the many merits of white horse wheels. The short list of mods includes Flowmaster exhaust, subframe connectors, K&N intake, Autometer gauges, and some shitty aftermarket stereo to listen to through shitty factory speakers. I owned this Mustang for a couple of years and sold it for less than the money I invested in it. Doesn’t it seem like this is always the case? After a short hiatus in a PT Cruiser (dark times indeed), I thankfully got my next Mustang

2005 Mustang GT

I’ll start by saying that yellow was probably not the best color choice. I bought this car just as this generation was hitting dealerships, so the color selection was slightly limited. The scorching yellow paint aside, this beast had the options it wanted. Including the most important option of all, a manual transmission. This car was loud, fast, and built to exceptional quality standards (except for that piece of trim on the door that came off after I pulled out of the parking lot). Unfortunately, I got tired of the color and sold it after about a year.

This walk down memory lane is to make clear the enduring value of all Mustangs (except the Mustang II, of course) to their owners and to America at large. The Mustang is an icon because almost everyone has a personal experience with one. Either through the property or constantly seeing them all over America’s highways. I am rooting for the success of the 2015 Mustang here and its new markets around the world.

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