Sporty/performance car; Built in USA
  • 2-door convertible
  • 2-door coupe
  • longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Good condition price range: $2,600 – $21,600*


2005 Ford Mustang


2005 Ford Mustang


2005 Ford Mustang

Pros:
  • Acceleration (V8s)
  • Handling/roadholding (V8s)
Cons:
  • Automatic-transmission performance (V6)
  • Interior materials
  • Rear-seat entry/exit
  • Rear-seat room

We prefer the GT versions, but any Mustang has all-American bang-for-the-buck appeal. The main letdowns are low-rent cabin appointments and occasional workmanship lapses. V6 versions are close to many sporty imports on price, but not in agility, refinement, or overall quality. V8 models deliver usable high performance at relative bargain prices. And no other brand matches Mustang’s convertibles for their blend of price, performance, and nominal 4-passenger capacity.

Overview

Ford’s Mustang was redesigned for 2005, getting more power, new features, and styling inspired by its 1960s ancestors. Coupe and convertible models were offered. They gained some 6 inches in wheelbase and overall length vs. the 1999-2004 generation. Weights rose about 100 lb on coupes and 275 lb on convertibles. A new underbody structure replaced one that dated from 1979, but the’05 Mustang retained a solid rear axle rather than adopting independent rear suspension.

Both body styles came in base V6 and GT V8 versions, and in Deluxe and Premium trim. The V6 was a 210-hp 4.0-liter in place of the previous 193-hp 3.8. GTs reprised a 4.6-liter V8, but with 300 hp vs. 260. A 5-speed manual remained the standard transmission. The optional automatic had five speeds vs. the previous four. All ’05 Mustangs had 4-wheel disc brakes. ABS and traction control were standard on GTs and optional on base models. No antiskid system was available until 2010. Base versions had 16-inch wheels and GTs had 17s.

Among options new to Mustang were front side airbags that covered torso and head, and an Interior Upgrade Package that included instrument lighting with 125 color choices. All Mustangs came with air conditioning and a CD player. Coupes had 50/50 split folding rear seatbacks. Convertibles included a power fabric top with heated glass rear window. Leather upholstery was standard on GT Premiums and available for other models. GTs included grille-mounted fog lamps and a rear spoiler.

Yearly Updates

2006 Mustang
For 2006, base Premium Mustangs got an optional Pony Package that included GT-style grille-mounted fog lamps, 17-inch wheels, and a rear spoiler. Base models also added a Standard trim level that came with wheel covers instead of the Deluxe’s alloy wheels.
2007 Mustang
High-performance Shelby GT and Shelby GT500 variants joined base and GT models in the Mustang stable for 2007. New for ’07 was a California Special Package for GT Premiums that includes unique trim and 18-inch wheels. Heated front seats were newly available options on base and GT models. A digital audio jack was also newly standard.
2008 Mustang
Ford brought back the Bullitt version of the Mustang that paid homage to the car Steve McQueen drove in the movie of the same name. The Bullitt had a 315-hp 4.6-liter V8 and 5-speed manual transmission. Also new was the 2008 Shelby GT500KR. It entered the Mustang stable as Ford’s most powerful pony car ever. It was a limited-edition coupe only available through select Ford dealers. It packed a 540-hp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The rest of the 2008 Ford Mustang lineup continued with few changes.
2009 Mustang
The Mustang received only minor changes for 2009.
2010 Mustang
The 2010 Ford Mustang was revamped with new styling, an upgraded interior, and 15 more horsepower for the GT’s V8 engine. The supercharged GT500 gained 40 horsepower, now 540. Newly standard was a capless fuel filler. Other new-for-2010 available features included an antiskid system, ambient interior lighting, and a rearview camera. Ford’s Sync, which offers voice control for cell phones and MP3 players, was also available. The available navigation system included real-time traffic updates for 2010. Newly optional for manual-transmission GT Premium coupes was a “Trackpack”, which includes a limited-slip differential, uprated brakes, sport suspension, 19-inch wheels, and a special antiskid system.
2011 Mustang
The 2011 Ford Mustang got more power, suspension and steering upgrades, and new front and rear fascias following its model-year 2010 freshening. The Base model now carried a 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, the GT got a 412-hp 5.0-liter V8, and the GT500 added 10 horsepower for 550 total.
2012 Mustang
A Boss 302 model was added to the Ford Mustang stable for 2012, boasting a 444-horsepower version of the GT’s 412-hp 5.0-liter V8.
2013 Mustang
Mustang received numerous updates for 2013, including revised front and rear styling, more powerful engines for the GT and Shelby GT500, and several new wheel-design choices. A new standard feature on most Mustangs was a 4.2-inch LCD screen in the instrument cluster with “Track Apps,” a software system that allowed the driver to monitor performance data such as acceleration times, braking time and distance, and g-forces. Mustangs with the manual transmission gained Hill Start Assist. It helped keep the car from rolling backward when the brake pedal was released, making it easier to pull away from a stop on a hill or other incline. Boss 302s wore new graphics inspired by the classic 1970 Boss 302.
2014 Mustang
After receiving numerous updates the previous year, Mustang was little changed for 2014. Mustang was redesigned for 2015.

Engines

longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive

Two engines were available in 2005-06 Mustangs: a 4.0-liter V6 that was rated at 210 horsepower, and a 4.6-liter V8 that was rated at 300 horsepower through 2009, then 315 for 2010. Both were available with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. The new-for-2008 Bullitt model had a 315-hp 4.6-liter V8 and 5-speed manual transmission. Another new-for-2008 model, the Shelby GT500 had a 500-hp 5.4-liter supercharged V8 engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. A special-order GT500KR had 540 horsepower, but it was dropped for 2009. For 2011, the base model got a new 305-horsepower 3.7-liter V6, while GTs got a 412-hp 5.0-liter V8, and the GT500 was boosted to 550 horsepower. A Boss 302 was added for 2012 that carried a 5.0-liter V8 with 444 hp. For 2013, the GT’s horsepower rose to 420. The GT500’s supercharged 5.4-liter V8 grew to 5.8 liters and horsepower jumped to 662.

ohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.0/245
Engine HP 210
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 240
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
5-speed automatic
5-speed manual
19/25
19/28
19.9
ohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 4.6/281
Engine HP 300-315
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 320-325
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
5-speed automatic
5-speed manual
18/23
15/23
14.9
15.2
dohc V6
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 3.7/227
Engine HP 305
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 280
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
6-speed automatic
19/29
19/31
19.6
dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.0/302
Engine HP 412-444
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 380-390
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual
6-speed automatic
17/26 18.1
Supercharged dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.4/330
Engine HP 500-550
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 480-510
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual 14/20 16.5
Supercharged dohc V8
Engine Size (liters/cubic inches) 5.8/354
Engine HP 662
Engine Torque (lb-ft) 631
Avail. Trans. EPA MPG (city/hwy) MPG avg. as tested
6-speed manual 15/24

Road Test

The base Mustang’s V6 furnishes brisk takeoffs–a test automatic-transmission coupe did 6.9 sec 0-60 mph–but suffers sluggish throttle response that dulls midrange pickup. And Mustang’s automatic lacks a manual shift gate. GTs are quick–Ford claimed around 5.2 sec 0-60 with either transmission–but the V8 needs at least 3000 rpm for a truly muscular feel, and it responds most satisfyingly with manual transmission. The Boss 302 added for 2012 is even stronger, and the GT500 is brutally fast. Convertibles weigh some 175 lb more than comparable coupes, so are a bit slower. Test automatic-transmission base coupes averaged 19.3-20.4 mpg, a base convertible 19.1 mpg. Test manual-transmission GT coupes averaged 14.6-16.3 mpg, GT convertibles 16.2-17.4 mpg. A test automatic GT coupe averaged 14.9 mpg. The V6 runs on regular-grade gas. Ford recommends premium for the GT and Boss 302, and requires it for the GT500.

All Mustangs absorb small bumps with little shock, but can transmit sharp pavement breaks. Base models prone to slight float over large moguls. V8 models ride a bit firmer than base models. The convertibles’ impressively solid structure exhibits little quake or cowl shake. Base Mustangs have good cornering moves, but some testers fault slower steering, more body lean than a sporty car should have. Sure-footed V8 models have nicely weighted steering, impressive dry-road grip, and modest lean. All have fine stopping power.

Inside, the main gauges are set in tunnel-like housings surrounded by shiny trim, making them hard to read by day. Manual shifting can be awkward with the console cupholders in use. Mustang’s cabin has eye appeal, but too much hard plastic even for this price level; the console lid and door inserts are among the few padded surfaces. Mustang’s switchgear feels cut-rate, and intermittent dashboard squeaks plagued two test coupes. Convertible-top roof latches are balky to operate and require a fair amount of muscle to lock in place. Wind rush is reasonably muffled, even in convertibles, but there’s marked coarse-surface tire thrum and fairly loud engines. The V6 growls and booms unpleasantly as revs rise. The V8s have a throaty, muscle-car tone.

There is good head and leg room up front, but the low seats, tall dashtop, and high windowsills create a cozy feel. Driver comfort is enhanced by the standard tilt steering wheel, height-adjustable seat, and nicely contoured backrest. But some testers’ knees made unwanted contact with the hard door panel and center console. Shoulder belts don’t adjust for height, and run at neck level on some occupants. Overall visibility is good in coupes, but the convertible’s top has a wide over-the-shoulder blind spot. The long doors complicate tight-quarters entry/exit. Rear seat space is inhospitable for adults; there’s little room, and entry/exit requires back-straining moves.

Both Mustang body styles have good trunk space for the class, but not much by absolute standards. Trunklids open wide on nonintruding hinges, but the aperture’s size and shape preclude bulky items. An available subwoofer consumes an unacceptable amount of trunk space. Cabin storage is sparse; the door map pockets are almost useless.

Ratings

Model Tested: 2005 Ford Mustang GT

Ratings values are on a 1-10 scale, with 10 being the best. With the exception of Value, these numbers reflect how the vehicle compares against the universe of vehicles, not just against rivals in its class.

Performance

Acceleration - 8
80%
Fuel Economy - 4
40%
Ride Quality - 4
40%
Steering/Handling - 8
80%
Quietness - 4
40%

Accommodations

Controls/Materials - 4
40%
Room/Comfort Front - 6
60%
Room/Comfort Rear - 2
20%
Cargo Room - 2
20%

Other

Value - 8
80%

Total: 50

Specifications

2-door convertible
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
107.1 187.6 73.9 55.7 3476
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
9.7 16.0 4
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
38.8 36.3 42.7 30.3
2-door coupe
Wheelbase (in.) Length (in.) Width (in.) Height (in.) Weight (lbs)
107.1 187.6 73.9 54.5 3300
Cargo Volume (cu/ft) Payload Capacity (cu/ft) Fuel Capacity (gal.) Seating Capacity
13.0 16.0 4
Headroom Legroom
Front Rear Front Rear
38.6 35.0 42.7 31.0
Safety Ratings

Model Tested: 2005 Mustang 2-door coupe

NHTSA

(5 is the highest rating)

Front Impact Test

Driver Injury - 5
100%
Front Passenger Injury - 5
100%

Side Impact Test

Driver Injury - 4
80%
Rear Passenger Injury - N/A
N/A0%

Trouble Spots

Clutch
Description: Shelby GT 500 may have the following clutch/transmission symptoms: hard to engage first or reverse, hard to shift, vehicle creeps with clutch fully depressed without brakes applied. (2007-09)
Engine misfire
Description: A blown fuse in the battery junction box may result in an intermittent drivability condition. (2011-13)
Fuel gauge
Description: Erratic fuel gauge readings may be due to faulty fuel level sending unit that become coated with sulfur compounds from gasoline. (2004-05)
Fuel pump
Description: While refueling, the nozzle may click off repeatedly or the tank may be slow to fill on some early-build cars, and is corrected with a revised fuel tank. (2005)
Fuel pump
Description: Hesitation after cruising at highway speeds for extended period due to insufficient volume from fuel pump. (2005-06)
Rear axle noise
Description: Limited-slip rear axle can chatter and vibrate during low-speed maneuvers. (2005)
Suspension noise
Description: Noise from the rear suspension in cold weather (below 15 degrees F) requires revised shock absorbers. (2005-06)
Vehicle noise
Description: Whining or humming from the rear when accelerating, decelerating, or cruising with either the 7.5-inch or 8.8-inch ring gear is corrected with a service kit containing new bearings, gear set, etc. (2005-06)
Convertible top
Description: Numerous convertible top problems including premature wear, bows out of place, difficulty latching closed, uneven retraction, etc. (2005-07)
None
Description: Noises from the front end when driving over bumps may be due to defective lower control arm bushings. (2005-06)
Transmission problems
Description: The limited slip differential may chatter on slow turns, for which there are improved clutch packs. (2004)
Transmission problems
Description: Gear clash may occur when shifting into 2nd or 3rd gear on vehicles with the 4.6L V8 and TR3650 transmission due to faulty synchronizers. (2007-08)
Check-engine light
Description: The throttle position sensor on the 4.6L V8 may go bad, causing the check engine light to come on. (2004-05)

Recall History

2005-06 Mustang GT with aftermarket Roush front struts
Description: The front strut may separate from the strut housing resulting poor handling or tire damage.
2005-07 Mustang with aftermarket Eibach front struts
Description: The front antiroll bar may separate from the strut housing resulting poor handling or tire damage.
2005-08 Mustang
Description: According to Federal crash regulations, an unbelted small female sitting in the passenger seat in the full-forward position has an increased risk of neck injury if not wearing a seatbelt during airbag deployment. Dealers will reprogram the restraint control module.
2005-09 Mustang with aftermarket corner/bumper lights
Description: Some aftermarket corner/bumper lights light required amber side reflectors.
2005-14 Mustang
Description: The driver’s front airbag can absorb moisture and cause the inflator to rupture. During deployment, the airbag could spray metal fragments.
2007 Parnelli Jones Saleen Mustang with a Watt’s link rear suspension
Description: The suspension can fail during extreme usage, causing vehicle instability. Saleen will supply new, upgraded parts, including complete installation instructions and technical support. Saleen will cover all labor costs. Authorized Ford dealers will complete the upgrade.
2012 Mustang with automatic transmission
Description: Automatic transmission may unexpectedly downshift to first gear. This could cause the vehicle to slow down suddenly and the rear wheels could lock and slide.
2012-13 Mustang
Description: Transmission may not go into reverse when the drive puts the shift lever into position for reverse. When vehicle is in reverse, dashboard “R” light may not illuminate.

Equipment Lists

Equipment lists are only viewable on larger screen sizes.

Pricing

Used-car pricing varies widely depending on local market conditions. Therefore, we recommend visiting websites that list used cars for sale to get a better idea of what a specific model is selling for in your area.

Share this: