An amazing year for the Mustang was 2000. There were some changes that consumers weren't fond of like the suspension of the Cobra for the 2000 model year, but knowing the Cobra would return the following year calmed many frenzied consumers. Some news that pleased consumers was the midyear presentation of the GT appearance package. This appearance package include the Cobra's 17 inch wheels and tires, hood and side scoops, as well as specialized body graphics.
Some things stayed the same this model year with both the base and GT models available in coupe or convertible. Traction control remains optional while antilock brakes become standard for the GT with an option to upgrade for base models.
The 2000 Mustang's body design remained practically identical to the '99 model, however some changes did improve the vehicle. For example, rear child seat anchors were introduced this year. Another change was that the base model could upgrade to the same 16 inch alloy wheels of the GT.
2000 Mustang Lineup
The 2000 lineup remained similar to the 1999 lineup, except the Cobra took a short break to correct some problems. In its place, Mustang sold the Cobra "R" for the 2001 model year although very few of these vehicles were produced.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2000 Mustang focused on increased power and performance. This is obvious by the more powerful engines in both the base model as well as the GT. The base model went from 150 horsepower in '99 to 190 horsepower at 5250 rpm in 2000. This power from a 3.8 liter split port V6 engine was certainly worthwhile for Mustang because consumers were wowed and really loved the base model with more power.
The Mustang GT is even more powerful for 2000 as well. A 4.6 liter modular V8 engine cranks out 260 horsepower and 302 pounds of torque. Revisions to the camshafts and intake manifold increases the engine's power. Larger valves increase airflow when the engine is above 3000 rpm. The engine is stronger and offers drivers more muscle out of this popular pony car. Another improvement is a new coil on plug ignition system that provides higher energy spark than the previous ignition system.
The 2000 and 2001 Mustangs all have the same rear axle ratio regardless of the engine or transmission at 3.27:1. The V6 and V8 engines are both flexible and work well with either transmission. The 1999 5 speed Tremec manual transmissions were used in both the V6 and V8, with the T5 for the V6 and T45 for the V8. The transmission is big for such a small sports car, but it is smooth and provides a great ride.
The only distinguishable difference between the V6 and the V8 was from the rear. You could tell which car was which by one exhaust pipe or two.
The 2000 Mustang used the same re-engineered braking system the 1999 Mustang used. The front weight was reduced by 10 pounds by simply using aluminum twin piston front calipers, which also made braking easier and smoother. Traction control is optional for the 2000 Mustang and could only be received by pre-ordering.
For drivers who like to drive aggressively the Mustang is sure to provide plenty of muscle and power, even when cornering. Changes in the suspension improved the car's ride and drive. The GT's rear suspension received some changes that improved smoothness as well. The rear of the vehicle received new 210 pound per inch linear rate springs while the front sported 450 pounds per inch springs. These small changes made a huge difference in driving, and made the steering wheel easier to handle as well.
Similar to the 1999 model, the 2000 Mustang has a better steering wheel thanks to a more linear steering response and a new boot curve. Drivers really appreciate these changes because when the car is easier to drive and control, it is more enjoyable to take for a spin.
Exterior
The 2000 Mustang's exterior matched that of the 1999 version, since a new design came into play the past year. This design was pure pony car with increased muscle and stronger lines. The 1999 new design was influenced by the 1964 Mustang, however there were some obvious modern influences in the design as well. The rear fender air intake was double the length that offered a more chiseled look with stronger lines. Obvious front and wheel well arches coupled with curved rocker panels made the 2000 Mustang look like a race car. The roof even reflected this harshness with sharp edges. The three element tail lamps mimicked this with sharp corners, and the hood scoop was angled and enhanced the hood of the car. The wheels even were designed to complement the sharp edges of the vehicle with flat spokes on the 15, 16, and 17 inch wheels. Something new was the 2000 tricolor front fender badge. The same selection of Goodyear, BF Goodrich, and Firestone tires remained the same as 1999.
The front of the 2000 Mustang boasted side marker lamps, a honeycomb grill with the famous Mustang pony running through the gate, and other design features reminiscent of the first pony car. The GT models received stainless steel exhaust tips that were three inches in diameter and polished to a shine. A rear deck spoiler and fog lamps were standard for the GT.
Those interested in purchasing a Mustang could choose between Performance Red, Sunburst Gold, Bright Atlantic Blue, Amazon Green, Black, Laser Red, Electric Green, Atlantic Blue, Silver, or Crystal White.
2000 Mustang Interior
If you liked the 1999 Mustang interior then you will feel the same about 2000's since there were really no changes. There was the addition of child seat anchors in the back seat, and some other small changes as well. For example, the seat foam was improved and provided a more comfortable ride. The power driver's seat was upgraded to six way power and new fabrics and patterns were used while leather remained optional. Ponies were embroidered on the back of the seats to really hit the Mustang theme home.
Even the seat tracks received a one inch upgrade to allow the seat to provide just a little more room to long legged drivers. Also, there is just a little bit more elbow room to increase comfort level. The 2000 interior also has seat belts attached to the seats to move together rather than seat belts attached to the body of the car. Like the 2001 model, all instrument panels and the center console are color coded.
The back seat for the 2000 Mustang remained big enough for children or groceries. The typical fold down seat increases the super small trunk's cargo room, but not by too much since the back seat is pretty small itself.
A standard 80 watt premium sound system on all models provides great sound for your favorite music. Other options include a CD/radio, CD/cassette, or a Mach 460 system.
The standard interior colors include midnight black, medium graphite, and medium parchment.
Final Word
The 2000 Mustang is a powerful vehicle, even more powerful than previous years. The base models and the GT both were given more power and increased performance for 2000 while the Cobra took a year off for some necessary changes. However, the Cobra "R" appeared in its place as a limited edition. The exterior design remained the same as 1999 and the interior did as well except for some basic changes. Despite increased performance and better options, the price remained affordable which made it hard on the Mustang's competition to compete with the legend.
