^ your right. It doesn't matter. If it works well...... What else do you need?

Well, I have to be honest, I never thought of the M3's front suspension as being outdated. Primarily because it is pretty much still one of the best handling sport sedans in the world and is consistently praised for it's handling and dynamics. The Mustang, on the other hand, is not. I guess it comes down to a double standard. If you are using old technology and but are still considered to be one of the most precise handling vehicles at almost any price really, then it is OK, but if the handling and dynamics could be improved (as in the case of the Mustang) it is not. I am not saying the Mustang can't put up pretty impressive track numbers, but it seems like the feel and dynamics of the M3 are still superior. The way the M3 goes about this is still considered to be the benchmark for most. Even with its old fashioned front suspension.

Aren't the issues of feel pretty much the same as saying refinement? It can hang with the M3, at half the price. Not pretending to be refined. Sure, an IRS may improve it, but at a price.

I recall that the SVT team (on a previous generation Mustang) made an IRS version. It didn't sell well, and Ford went back to the live axle for subsequent versions. Same axle technology as their pickup trucks. And I bet that more than a few Mustang owners also have a pickup truck. No surprise that Ford announced the same V8 Mustang engine will be available in the F150. I think they know their market.

The new Mustang is a lot of performance for the price for sure. I was surprised that it would hang in these tests with the M3, didn't even really consider it possible. The Boss (two versions) is a serious contendor at the track. So for the masses and even for some those that can afford much more, the Mustang is both a muslce car and track car option. The new 5.0 engine is very good. The aftermarket support is huge with optins for mild to wild.

Ford built these with very good materials, they are refined and reliable. I'm happy to see this part of Ford's recovery and health. The live axle was a nod to the straight line racers, now with more track cred, the rumors of next gen Mustangs having IRS are growing.

I love my Shelby GT500 and would love to add an M3 so I can experience the variety.

I've owned a Mustang every year of my life since I got my license in 1989. My first was a brand new 5 Liter LX. I currently own an 04 GT that's heavily modded. I have also owned 4 BMW's. My friend just purchased a competition M3. After having a chance to drive it, I don't really think I would take a Gt over the M3. That being said, I detect a lot of snobby tones in some of you people's remarks about Ford products. Saying you would take an E46 M3 over this new 011 GT is hilarious. You go ahead and do that. You'll be seeing Ford tail lights at the track, and at every street encounter. Ford has also come a long way in reliability. My GT has 110k miles on it. It has NEVER seen the service dept. Yes there are nightmare stories out there, but go read how many people here have had cars bought back from BMW . Ford is currently producing cars that are a great bang for the buck. Not everyone can afford to drop 70k on a new car. Obviously neither can some of you, which is why you drive old , or bought used BMW's. The 2011 GT at it's price point is an awesome car. The interior has come a long way. I'm not crazy about the exterior looks, but as a package, Ford has done well. These cars are also easy and inexpensive to mod. You'll be seeing these things hit 600+ RWHP in no time. That's without having to pay $4k for a catback, like BMW owners. It's good to open your eyes to American manufacturers sometimes. From the posts , many of you have. Thats good to see.

Dude, I don't think anyone here is really bashing the Mustang. You may want to step away from the keyboard and do some pushups or something to calm down a little.

I assume that you are talking about me regarding the e46 M3 comment. I will stand behind it all day long. The Mustang is a great car no doubt. I am the one who started this thread praising it, but imo, it is not as competent of an overall car as the e46 M3. That is just the way I feel about it. I am not arguing about which would win in a race. I also stated that I am a BMW fanboi, so that is most likely where my money will go when it is time for a newer car. With that being said though, the new Mustang is impressive.

I guess all I am saying is that if the IRS adds $500+/- to the total cost of the car, it would seem worth it for the extra refinement and possible handling improvement. You are right though, they should know their market better than I do. It doesn't seem like they are having problems sales-wise because of it.

Either way, it is fast around a track "as is".

I'ld take a Vette over a Ford or BMW :stickpoke

http://www.cruiserblvd.com/images/pr...lagePoster.jpg

I figured you (as well as MD) would. :rofl: Nothing wrong with that. They are great sports cars, but for some reason I have never really personally wanted to own one. I guess Chevy in general doesn't do much for me. I am not one of those Ford guys who hates on Chevy or anything though.