There are two transmissions, a 6-speed manual for the coupe and a 5-speed automatic for the convertible. Each was chosen for suitability to the design concept. Production cars will almost certainly come with a choice of gearboxes.

The Thunderbird/S-type chassis features double wishbones all around.  The concepts had to modify the front suspensions heavily, to fit the large-displacement V8.  The production version will likely make use of the versatile platform.

2004 will be the fortieth anniversary of the Mustang nameplate, and the new but familiar design will be arriving just in time.  The upcoming model will face a slew of reborn rivals, including the hot-selling Nissan 350Z.  Based on these concepts, though, the new Mustang will be one pony car destined for a long and profitable run, with its formidable 400-hp V8 and its main weapon, the iconic looks. For Americans and fans of American metal, there will be no substitute for it.

The production version of the 2005 Mustang may use a modified DEW (Lincoln LS, Jaguar S-Type, Ford Thunderbird) platform. However, Ford assures that the new Mustang will be as fast through the corners as it is in a straight-line.

PHOTO GALLERY >>>