Well, currently I own a saturn thats on its last legs. After driving around to the local car dealerships, my dad and I found a silver, 05 V6 mustang with about 18K miles on it. Its automatic, which is a tragedy but since my parents are willing to help me on my insurance and such while im in college, i have no real leverage to complain. List price is 17488.

I tried google, but im having trouble finding a single review of the 05 V6. Theres enough to sate my desires if i was hunting a GT, but i can't locate anything useful for my purposes. So, if you A) know of anywhere with reviews of the 05 V6 or B) Are willing to post a review of your STOCK vehicle thatd be great. If you do choose to post your own review, do me a few favors- 1) I really want to know about handling. I love to take corners like a madman and thers an abundance of backroads where im from. 2) I care alot about power- I don't need anything absurd, but i dont want to feel like im just as slow as my 4 banger saturn due to the weight difference. Rated @ 210 horses crankside worries me a little for a 3300# car. 3) Avoid talking about any modifications; i'm a tuner at heart, but i just dont have the money to do anything with it currently. I need to choose a car based on what it will be like when i get it, not after i sink a few nother G's into it. and 4) Please, PLEASE, please, PLEASE tell me about your dislikes. I would MUCH rather know about it now then later. No matter how small the discrpency you have with it, i wanna hear it. Thanks a ton guys!

The cheap dash is my only dislike but the gt's have the same cheap dash....get the 6 and let them pay for the insurance.

Handling

Handling on these car's is better than the previous year mustangs, because of the new frame and nearly 50/50 weight distribution ratio of the car. I think it's closer to 47/53 but it is a significant improvement over the fox. If handling is a must for you, I would hunt around for a pony package, but the stock mustang V6 handles suprisingly well. But this car takes to the twisties well, even with stock suspension and stock it rides pretty smooth for a sports car. I was suprised when I test drove it.

Power

I had a 93 5.0 LX Vert before this, so that was my baseline. On the top end, compared to my old V8, it pulled just as hard. It's a torqy little six, not as much TQ as my old V8, but suprisingly quick off the line stock. It does have some throttle lag, but the new auto is better than previous years and is a 5 speed. Even a simple K&N filter will give her a tad bit more response off the line. After driving a V6 Turbo Volvo, I can say the V6 stang was more peppy! And I also rented the following cars that I thought the V6 stang was much better on power & handling: 05 G6 (not GTP), 04 Ford Mustang V6, 06 Monte Carlo, 06 Chevy Cobalt.

Modding

You requested we not talk about that, LOL. Though 99% of the members here are mod junkies.

Misc.

1. Trunk release!!!! Drives me up the wall, there is no trunk release button in the car. It's either remote key fob or the actual key.
2. Open Diff. Stock I hate the one wheel burn outs, but a lot more cars than you think come with open diffs
3. Mirrors: I hate that they don't bend back for safety, my parking garage valet attendants knocked one off already.
4. Bumpers: So easy to scractch and difficult to touch up

All in all though even stock I love this stang. It is a blast to drive. Both of them were a blast in fact, the V6 and V8. Good luck. If you could swing it, I would definitly try for the pony package.

I have owned a 68 six cylinder, a 99 convertible with a V-6 and now my 05 convertible.

I told my wife the other day that if she climbed behind the wheel of the 99 again, she would throw rocks it at after driving it and getting out. The 05 is so much better in my opinion.

I would buy the V-6, the mileage is great for a semi-performance car and the handling is terrific and can be made better through inexpensive suspension mods. I put in an oiled gauze air filter and installed a used GT muffler and love the car.

RYGEN's post addressed the minor issues quite well. Having owned the 99 for seven years prior to owning the 05, I feel that FORD hit a homer with the new model.

Awesome, Great post Rygen. Exactly what i was looking for. More are invited to do the same. Now that i've got a baseline though, im opening the floor to suggested modifications in the following areas:

Suspension
Acceleration
Top end

Forced induction isn't an option right now, but id like to get an idea of what bolt ons are most heavily suggested, and why. Being a tuner I've got a feeling the first response im going to see is CAI, Exhaust, and Springs. Go on and throw out some good company names as well- again, thanks guys!

ORIGINAL: zorminster

Awesome, Great post Rygen. Exactly what i was looking for. More are invited to do the same. Now that i've got a baseline though, im opening the floor to suggested modifications in the following areas:

Suspension
Acceleration
Top end

Forced induction isn't an option right now, but id like to get an idea of what bolt ons are most heavily suggested, and why. Being a tuner I've got a feeling the first response im going to see is CAI, Exhaust, and Springs. Go on and throw out some good company names as well- again, thanks guys!


Suspension


Panhard Bar and Brace: Our stock panhard bar is filled with lead beads, it's heavy and not that strong. Get a Powerhouse, BMR or Steeda replacement, makes a world of difference.
Sway bars: If you can't get the Pony package then put in some GT sway bars, they make a big difference as well. Though I took my front one out for the track (collecting dust).
Springs: I hear eibach lowering kit is a nice upgrade for looks and handling

Acceleration & Top End


XCAL2/CAI Combo: This will make a night and day difference in your car. You will be amazed that it's a six after you get this. Bamachips, Alternative Auto (considered the master for automatics), Brenspeed, Evolution are all top notch choices (the only CAI that didn't have a gain over the stock airbox was the AEM, though it looks cool as hell LOL)
Axleback muffler: Stock mufflers are very restrictive, get a MRT, Magnaflow, Flowmaster, FRPP (Borla), or JBA, all are good and will free up power.
PHP Altenator pulley: Dyno'd at 3-5 rwhp (don't bother with the UD pulley, its worthless)


Misc Notes


Dual Exhaust: Moderate gains on NA, but show some decent gains on FI. X for flow, H for sound, though the difference between the two HP wise is minimal. Lot of debate on actual gains, all I know is from a Y pipe to a X pipe on my setup, I got a gain of 2HP. Just go with what sounds good to you.
TB spacer: F'in worthless LOL
Throttle Body: Still waiting on this one, but all the shops I called said its not worth it, even with FI
Gears/LSD: One of my favorite upgrades, helps with handling and take offs. Also helps on acceleration. In my book, this upgrade is a MUST HAVE.


Take a look at scrming's web site, it has a bunch of before and after dyno's. Mine does as well. For a list of power adders available, check out this site (maintained by our good friend Jimp):

http://american-speed.com/**********/forums/showthread.php?t=167

Listen to Rygen.... a couple of brilliant writeups! Bravo!

the 2005 v6:

1) the Pro's of this car FAAARRRRRR outway the con's
2) interior noise is not the greatest
3) the stock soundsystem is ok at best (Shaker 500 is much better)
4) the 05 will have some recalls but nothing ford wont fix.
5) stock cloth seats LOOK AMAZING!!
6) comfortable seats. ive driven in this car for about 5 hours at 1 time got out and stretched and felt perfect not sore!!
7) you might need to beat women away with a bat its so fine!!
8) needs a baseball bat.


lol. by the way great writeups rygen!

Thanks hamidlmt and harry! Yes, I concur on the seats. Lately I have been in rentals and the seats suck. Namely a Monte Carlo and a Pontiac G6, both had terrible seats.

I got my brand new v6 manual for under that price. Maybe look around some more but i definatly recommend getting the stang. Its just so fun to have one.

ORIGINAL: chipschwab

I got my brand new v6 manual for under that price. Maybe look around some more but i definatly recommend getting the stang. Its just so fun to have one.


Yep, now you have to get one. Besides, look at the great community you have to go to for support and modificaitons. What other car can you get where there are so many forums with supportive members? The mustang has more car clubs than any other car. Simply amazing!

Also about the sound system, the first mustang i had that i wrecked had the shaker 500 and i like the standard system alot better. No bulky speakers sticking out of the door and no skipping problems.

I have had many many muscle cars, from the sixties to now. And everyone was a V8, "I will never own a 6 in a car like a Camaro or a Mustang". That was me before I drove an 06 Auto. I now own an 06 Auto and I love it.

Ford has done such a good job with the balance of this car, decent acceleration, great brakes and the best handling in a Mustang yet. The handling was the reason I kept buying F Bodies for the last twenty years, but Ford really got it right on this car.

Although I didn't buy a Mustang for economy reason's, I get 22 combined city/hwy mileage.
Did I mention the handling :)
Good Brakes
I love the way this car turns heads (Screaming Yellow by the way)
I a lot of compliments on the Pony Pkg, a must have for me.
Responds well to simple bolt on's

Down side.
No damn trunk release IN the car!!!!!
A little weak off the line in stock trim- at least for me. But, as I said it responds well to bolt's.


I have owned close to 30 cars, I'm not kidding, and I'll put this Mustang as my number three all time favorite.

Good luck, I think the hardest choice would be picking out a color.

I was in the exact same situation back in Feb. My wife has a 98 saturn sl2 with 247,000 miles on it. It still runs like a top but has started using about a quart of oil between changes. We found a used 05 convertible premium pkg loaded with everything for 20,100 and only had 2000 miles on it! We bought it, but the trade in on the saturn was only going to be $500! So, we kept the saturn and she still drives it about 100 miles a day to and from work. The stang just hit 5000 on the odometer, and she's still racking up the miles on the saturn, which by the way is still getting 36 mpg consistently. Keeping it was one of the best decisions I've ever made!

As far as difference in the two cars....night and day. The mustang has sooo much more pep than the saturn and handles like dream in comparison. She has even commented on how responsive the mustang is in cornering, and she doesn't drive nearly as agressive as I do.

You've read how well the V6 stang takes to mods, but other than the K&N drop in, ours is still bone stock and gets 24/28 mpg. Insuranse in about half the price of the GT also.

I say go for it, and keep the saturn too if you can, cuz your not going to get anything trade in wise. I'm looking at getting at least another 50,000 miles out of ours (i hope).

The only thing I saw that concerns me is the asking price on the one your looking at w/18K miles on it. I really think thats a bit high.
I would definitly try to get them down another 2/3K

You'll be more than pleased with the stang, and there NOTHING the guys on this forum can't help you with if you ever encounter problems with it. Good Luck and post some pics when you get....you know your getting it!

Like everybody else I can state the pros by far out way any cons. IN fact after Rygen's post I can't add a bloody thing! LOL

But do consider seeing if you can get into an 06, just because mine Is an 06 with the pony package (17 in tires/nice rims...rear sway bar...awesome grill...and interior upgrade) Anyways I didn't pay much more than what you are looking at for a used 05. I think you'd still LOVE the 05, But at that price you can get NEW for very little more, Unless you are able to haggle them down.

One thing to brace yourself for though...and you may know this allready being a tuner...be prepared for MODFEVER!!! It's contangious and running rabid aroud here and there is no known cure. (not that we'd want one) LOL

Serious Kudos to Rygen for his posts...awesome write ups

Life is full of compromises. You are a young guy in college. Be darn glad you and your parents are in a position to give you a great car while still footin' the college bills. You will live a LONG time and have many opportunites to get more Mustangs.

Having said that, the V6 is NOT much of a compromise. It has a ton of power and pickup. The whole world has become warped. How much power is enough? You are talking about a 210 HP care with 240 ft-lb of torque. This car can move quite well. It really does well from a dead stop, it will get you up to 40-50 MPH very quickly.

The car looks GREAT!! That's just as important as power. The V6 will attract just as many babes as the V8. As others have said, a $600 mod of CAI and tuner will really add to the seat of the pants feel. The money you save on a V6 could be used for some other cool stuff for the car.

Study hard, get a good job, save a little money and be ready to nab a redesigned 2009 GT with 350 HP. You lucky dog.. you have 60+ more years to enjoy mustangs! You might even get a 100th anniversary issue!

PERSONALY.. if ur looking for great handling, good performance and good looks. you cant go rong with the v6 mustang... its 1 awesome car and 1 HELL OF A CHICK MAGNET

Paul

Awesome, thanks for all the responses guys.

The pony package- whats included, and whats the price of this option normall?

As for price on this one, im pretty sure it will come down a bit, but i really can't anticipate by how much. We did stop and check out brand new 05s and the invoices were about 19,800 base.

With regards to the saturn- 107,000 miles, transmission has long running issues and my piston rings are burnt. We've also had to replace the engine cradle and mounts once in it. Im actually perfectly fine with fixing it and keeping it till the engine completely seizes up on me, but my parents and grandparents (Who are lovingly footing the bill) really would rather me get a late model car that will last for a long time to come.

I am surprised to see you say Axleback instead of a full catback- are there any reasons? Or do you simply think That if i was going to do that, im better suited getting some headers and running true duel exhaust (X'd of course, i fully anticipate this eventually becoming a weekend warrior for the track dependant on how my coop goes)

Could someone provide me with information on the stock sound system? Thats a big thing for me- I need to know output of the stock head, if there are any rca outputs (if there are ill be amazed) and speakers sizes.

What do you guys think i should be paying for a silver 05, immaculate paint, 20K miles, auto v6?

if your looking for a a great car for all around fun and perfomance. the new V6 has got to be the one. For the base price you can't get a better car for your money. and the bolt on's are all over the place. if you want a 500+hp daily driver, then the 6 may not be 4 you. but if u like the idea of daily driver with great handleing and braking(with mods of coarse) and with 350 to 400hp potential. yea get the 6. with the money u save on buying a 6 and believe me it's a big chunk of change. you can have one hot, fast ass ride that others will be look'n like DAMN!!! theu you'll have ur shorty ride'n shotgun with you. man can't ask for anything better.

+1 on the chick magnet! At the after party of my prom this weekend I was the life of the party, especially with my 2 12"subs! The girls were...lets say...OBSESSED.

http://www.caranddriver.com/shortroadtests/9028/ford-mustang-v-6.html

Lets' go with the cons first...

1-Dash materials are cheap, ans scratch easily. But i had this same complaint about my RSX, so maybe it's mw

2-I hate, hate the drive by wire system the Mustang and most new cars use, delays throttle response :( A tuner can reduce this lad, but unfortunatly not eliminate it totally.

3- Like everyone has said, no trunk release in the car.

4-Like most cars, stock tires suck and not too crazy about the stock rims, though they're ones i can live with for now.

5-For the retro feel i guess, Ford went with a speedo that only goes to 125, stock the speed limiter is 113 or so, that can be removed by a tuner.

The pros-

1- Everything else, lol. Rides like a dream, enough power to net low 15's stock, looks increadible, decent gas milage for a v6...my personal favorite, the sound of the engine, even stock. No its not the v8 sound, but it does give a nice rumble :)

As for the mods, a simple 800- invesment in a tuner/ CAI and axleback can net 30-40 rwhp, and much the same in tq. Why an axleback and not a catback? The stock exhaust piping actually flows well on this car, but the muffler really bottlenecks that flow.

With the pony package, it is only available on 06's, and consists of a new upper grille with smaller GT like fogs and chrome bezels, 17" bullitt rims w/ Pirellis <like the GT gets>, rear spoiler, GT sway bars, and side emblems.

Still don't trust us? Here's another online review...

http://cars.about.com/od/ford/fr/ag_05stangV6.htm

In terms of getting a new stang, here's what I did: go to edmunds.com That site gives you the true market value (what people are actually paying for it) the msrp (rip-off) and the dealer invoice (what they paid for it.)

If your dealer has an internet sales manager, (most do, and their job is to move inventory, NOT make money) e-mail him the figures you got from the website. If not, just print out the paperwork, walk into the showroom, and settle for nothing less. There isn't anything they can say to argue...you have their invoice.

The dealer hold-back (money they get from the factory for selling the car) is about $600. If you mention this, you may be able to talk 'em down a little more.

That's what I did, got my 06 pony pkg 'stang, and could be more happy with it...alright, the trunk release thing is annoying, but oh well. And about the, "Mod-fever" .......get ready. I've barely had mine a month and have aready ordered a borla muffler and x-cal 2.

Bottom line - DO the homework, get THE MUSTANG!

My only major cons involve the absolutely brutal basicness of the car. The stalk antenna, the lack of automatic headlights, no radio controls on the steering wheel.. Satellite radio is only becoming an option for 2007. If you can get used to not having perks that a $25K car from 10 years ago has, you should be fine. But hey, there's always the Mycolor dash lights! -.-;

My gas mileage is horrendous but I do alot of short-distance citylike driving. I barely break 17mpg but then again I only fill up every 2-3 weeks.

You're only driving 250 miles every 2 to 3 weeks and you complain about steering wheel radio controls? You can't have time to change stations as little as you're in the car!
[quote]ORIGINAL: S.SubZero

My only major cons involve the absolutely brutal basicness of the car. The stalk antenna, the lack of automatic headlights, no radio controls on the steering wheel.. Satellite radio is only becoming an option for 2007. If you can get used to not having perks that a $25K car from 10 years ago has, you should be fine. But hey, there's always the Mycolor dash lights! -.-;

My gas mileage is horrendous but I do alot of short-distance citylike driving. I barely break 17mpg but then again I only fill up every 2-3 weeks.
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