2009 Ford Mustang

Since the Ford Mustang was introduced in 1964, millions of people have lusted after one. Over the past 45 years, more than nine million have purchased new Mustangs and countless millions more have bought used Mustangs. On top of that, the Mustang convertible is currently the best-selling ragtop. The 2009 Ford Mustang and Mustang GT are sure to keep that streak going strong.

New for 2009

While Internet sites and car magazines have been rife with predictions of a significant restyling for the 2009 Mustang, they are wrong. For 2009, the new option is the glass roof available on V6 and GT Premium coupes. Also, a commemorative 45-year anniversary badge will appear on the flanks of almost all models.


The new full-length fixed-glass roof offers the vista of a convertible with the security, comfort and quiet of a coupe. A $1995 option, it’s available on both the base V6 model and the V8-powered GT. To keep the cabin cool and quiet, the glass roof is acoustic vinyl laminated glass and coated with sunshine-reflecting material. For privacy, a full-length roller shade can be pulled forward.

Power Supplies

The standard Mustang engine is 4.0-liter single overhead cam V6. Its block is iron but the heads are aluminum alloy. This engine makes an impressive 210 horsepower at 5300 rpm. Peak torque of 240 pound-feet happens at a low 3500 rpm, making the V6 Mustang more than plenty quick for most drivers. A five-speed manual is standard and a five-speed automatic is optional. The Mustang retains its traditional solid rear axle. The EPA rates the manual-equipped V6 at 17 miles per gallon in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.


The Mustang GT’s 4.6-liter single overhead cam V8 features variable intake valve timing, three valves per cylinder, and aluminum-alloy block and heads. It pumps out an impressive 300 horsepower at 5750 rpm and a huge 320 pound-feet of torque at 4500 rpm. To help prevent unwanted wheelspin, the GT has traction control standard. The V8 comes standard with a five-speed Tremec manual transmission, while a five-speed automatic is optional. For stoplight-to-stoplight performance, a limited-slip rear axle with a low 3.55:1 gear ratio is optional, but only on manual transmission models. Bullitt editions get an even lower 3.73:1 limited slip rear gear. The EPA rates the manual-equipped V8 at 15 miles per gallon in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.

Model Features

Mustangs come in two models—the standard V6 and the V8-powered GT—and both are available in two trim levels—Base (formerly called Deluxe) and Premium. Standards on Premium versions include satin-aluminum instrument panel, satellite radio, Ambient Lighting, and My Color. Premium models may get available high-intensity discharge headlights (requires V6 Safety & Security Package or GT Security Package). Remote keyless entry system is standard on all models. A six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat comes on the Premium V6 and is standard on the regular GT. The Premium GT gets leather-trimmed sport bucket seats.