“Makes a great boat anchor.” That’s how our editor-in-chief, Angus MacKenzie, neatly summarizes the V-6 engine in the 2010 Ford Mustang. The so-called “Cologne” six, produced by Ford of Germany in varying displacements for more than FOUR DECADES (currently it’s a single-cam, 4.0-liter), is rough, noisy, and underpowered (210 horses) and probably cheats on its taxes. Single-handedly, it knocked the Mustang out of contention for our 2010 Car of the Year award (the V-8-powered Mustang GT and GT500, in contrast, earned raves). We admire this motor like we admire Balloon Boy Dad.
But now — and none too soon — it’s gone. For the 2011 model year, starting this spring, the Mustang jettisons the stinky Cologne in favor of a sophisticated new DOHC 3.7-liter V-6 that banishes the taint of its predecessor like a rainbow after a hurricane. Ford graciously provided MT with an exclusive, preproduction ride (no wheel time yet, though) at the maker’s Arizona Proving Grounds. Listen up: The news is very good indeed.
We brought along the Mustang’s… read full caption.
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As far as we can tell, there’s little if anything wrong the BMW E92 M3. However, according to a post on Bimmerfile, that small point will not be stopping BMW from offering a Competition Package on 2011 models. What goes into a Competition Pack? We’re not certain, and Bimmerfile can only speculate (bigger wheels, brakes, maybe). Knowing that much, we’ll join ‘em. But first, a little history.
Way back in 2005, BMW began a Competition Package for the E46 M3. Included were upgraded wheels, larger brakes, stickier tires,a firmer suspension and a revised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system identical to the one on the hardcore M3 CSL. In addition, the E46 M3 Comp Pack also came with a quicker steering ratio. Inside, a bit of fussing took place in the form of Alcantara steering wheel and hand brake coverings and the steering wheel saw a few buttons (multi-function controls and cruise) deleted in favor of a DSC M button.
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The weather outside may be frightful, but fret not, because summer is coming soon…ish. And when it does, you’re going to want the right set of wheels. With that in mind, the good folks over at Maserati North America have revealed the pricing for their new GranTurismo Convertible (also known as the GranCabrio overseas) so you can start saving now. And save you will if you want to get your hands on one, because it sells for a princely $135,800 (MSRP, before taxes and additional fees).
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Peugeot’s newest car for the Chinese market was unveiled over the weekend at the Beijing Motor Show. The Peugeot 408 is a long-wheelbase sedan based on the 308 giving more room for passengers sitting in the back.
This model is not to be confused with the recently-spied Peugeot 508 for the European market. That car will replace the Peugeot 407 & 607 beginning in 2011, and be significantly longer than the Chinese market’s 408.
The 408 features a large sunroof and a self-contained trunk to keep the cabin light and spacious. Because of the interior room, and the somewhat popular Peugeot styling in China, the automaker and their Chinese joint-venture partner are expecting annual 408 sales to top 100,000 units.
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