Introduced more than 35 years ago, the Ford Mustang has earned its place as a true American icon. Mustang is available in two body styles, coupe and convertible. Mustang is the No.1-selling convertible in the United States.

For 2002, high-tech sound systems boost the performance of Mustang’s cabin environment. Audiophiles will be delighted with the option of a speed-sensitive, Mach 1000 audio system with a 6-disc, In-dash CD Changer. The Mach 1000 delivers 570-watts RMS (1,140-watts peak power) with a 60-watt parametrically equalized amplifier, six 85-watt subwoofer amplifiers, four subwoofer speakers, four midrange tweeters and two 10-inch, trunk-mounted, acoustic suspension subwoofer enclosures.

Mustang also is available with an MP3 CD-player that plays regular or MP3 CDs with bit rates of 56K to 320 bps.

The high-volume V-6 Mustang adds appeal with standard 16-inch bright aluminum wheels with exposed lugs.

Design:

The 2002 Mustang retains key styling cues from the original. The traditional chromed pony and corral emblem adorns the grille, while the vertical tail lamps feature the signature tri-bar design. Interior cues include the traditional dual cockpit design.

The Mustang’s striking exterior profile reinforces its sports car heritage with a ground-hugging appearance that emphasizes an agile, aggressive stance.

Comfort and Convenience:

Standard comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, power windows and door locks, tilt-steering column, full-length center floor console, remote keyless entry system and interval windshield wipers.

Reclining cloth front bucket seats are standard, as are 50/50 split-folding rear seatbacks on coupe models. A six-way power driver’s seat is available, as are leather-trimmed bucket seats. New optional upgraded Nudo leather is available for 2002.

An interior overhead storage net has been added to all coupes. The Mustang convertible features a power retractable fabric top with a hydraulic system that allows for quick raising and lowering. The convertible top features a scratch-resistant glass rear window and black semi-hard boot, which protects the top from dust when lowered, and provides an aerodynamic exterior appearance.

Powertrains:

The standard Mustang engine is a 3.8-liter OHV V-6, producing 193 horsepower at 5,550 rpm and 228 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,800 rpm. The engine features split-port induction, which helps optimize fuel economy, along with enhanced-flow cylinder heads and anti-friction piston coatings.

GT models have a standard 4.6-liter SOHC V-8 that produces 260 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 302 foot-pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. The engine features large valves, equal-length intake manifold runners, and cams with high lift and long duration to increase engine air intake for increased horsepower. A coil-on-plug ignition system provides improved ignition control for more consistent starting.

Combustion chambers are shaped for optimum power and fuel efficiency. Aluminum upper main, upper thrust and rod bearings help to improve engine durability. The Mustang GT uses the Tremec TR3650 manual transmission with a new 5th gear ratio for improved fuel economy.

The engine has been recalibrated for 2002 to meet emissions regulations. An electronic returnless fuel system uses a high-pressure pump to deliver fuel directly to the injectors at variable pressure, adjusted to meet the precise demand. Eliminating the fuel return line from the engine to the fuel tank reduces fuel tank vapor and evaporative emissions.

Ride and Handling:

Mustang’s rear-wheel drive layout provides excellent performance feel and handling response. Mustang uses a modified MacPherson strut front suspension to allow each wheel to react to road imperfections independently, while its weight balance of 57 percent front, 43 percent rear contributes to agility. Four-bar link rear suspension and power rack-and-pinion steering are standard on all Mustang models.

A traction-lock rear axle, standard on the GT, transfers driving force to the rear wheel with the best traction for improved performance on slippery or uneven surfaces, or under strong acceleration.

Safety and Security:

The 2002 Mustang features front outboard restraints, with pretensioners to tighten the safety belts in the first moments of a crash, and energy management retractors that gradually slacken the safety belt if necessary to reduce the force of the belt on the occupant's chest. BeltMinder™ provides a gentle reminder to the driver to buckle up.

Antilock braking system and four-wheel disc brakes enhance stopping power, while all-speed traction control harnesses dynamic forces. A second-generation air bag restraint system provides occupant protection in certain frontal collisions.

The Mustang is fitted with an emergency trunk release handle and child seat top tether anchors. The SecuriLock™ passive anti-theft system scans an encoded chip embedded in the proper ignition key to help prevent a thief from starting the engine.

Also in 2001, the Mustang Coupe received the federal government's highest front crash test rating of five stars for the driver and right front passenger.

Story by Ford