Given its iconic status from introduction at the 1964 New York World's Fair, the Mustangs total redesign for 2005 was one of the most significant automotive projects ever undertaken. Handling the task was Ford's California Concept Center staff, influenced by noted hot rodder Larry Erickson. Clearly recalling the early design cues of the 1960s, the 2005 Mustang's shape was predicted by the "Plausible Original Design" program at Mattel's Hot Wheels group in the form of a 1967/68-styled piece called "Pony Up." Fords Canadian-born industrial designer Sid Ramnarace is also mentioned as a major influence on the new ponycar's styling. Two pre-production concept cars a coupe and convertible were built on the DEW 85 Thunderbird platform and debuted at the 2003 North American Auto Show in Detroit.

The road from concept to production was remarkably quick, with the body given a six-inch extension between the firewall and front wheels for better proportions. Engineering was led by Hau Thai-Tang with body stiffness was increased 100 per cent over the prior Mustang design. Power was provided by a potent V-6 for the base Mustang, while GT featured a lightweight all-aluminum, 300-horsepower SOHC 4.6-liter V-8 with 3 valves per cylinder, electronic fuel injection and variable valve timing. A choice of 5-speed manual and automatic transmissions was available and final drive a highway-friendly 3.31:1 ratio. Performance was excellent on all levels, particularly for the GT, with the manual-transmission car tested by Car and Driver magazine clocking 0-to-60 mph acceleration in just 5.1 seconds and the quarter-mile in 13.9 seconds, up to a 143-mph top speed. Handling was equally strong with 0.87g on the skid pad and excellent braking to match.    

Offered with just 15,077 original miles at the time of writing, this 2005 Ford Mustang GT Coupe is in outstanding condition and features the 5-speed manual transmission favored by performance enthusiasts. Striking in its Red exterior finish, the Mustang is well-optioned with the $450 Code 18G Interior Upgrade Package including the bright polished 6-gauge instrument cluster with MyColor personalization, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, satin interior appointments, Message Center, and Dark Charcoal Aberdeen patterned upholstery. An optional $650 Shaker 500 audio system delivers entertainment with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer, MP3 capability and 8 speakers. An important model in Mustang history, this 5-speed GT is ready to collect and enjoy. Experience it for yourself by calling us to obtain full details and arrange a test drive today!