This isn’t just any Ford Mustang, it’s the 2018 Ford Mustang GT with the Performance Pack Level 2. It rides harder and stiffer than your normal Mustang and has got the looks of a track-focused car to boot. Here are five things you should know about it.
1. Tremendously Wide Front Tires
I’ve always thought 305-section rear tires were wide. Never did I think they were necessary up front. But Ford apparently thought they were, so the PP2 slaps a set of 305-section Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 on all four corners for that sweet, sweet grip.
And I’m sure it does grip very well on a track, but if you’re just driving the car around for day-to-day activities, you’ll only notice how loud they are.
2. Manual Only
Yes, you read that right. The PP2 is only available on Mustang GTs with the six-speed manual transmission. You cannot get it with Ford’s new 10-speed automatic (thank God).
In fact, American muscle cars are some of the last cars that still consistently come with manual transmissions. Say what you want about the debatable “uncouthness” of the things; at least they’re still letting us shift our own gears. How many modern European sports cars can say that?
3. Visually Different From Regular GTs
Of course, because you spent extra money on the PP2, you obviously want your car to look different than all the other run-of-the-mill Mustang GTs. The pack does throw on some visual cues to set it apart, but they’re subtle, which is nice.
Visually, you get a black spoiler, dark gray 10-spoke wheels and a massive front lip splitter. It takes a little getting used to not to scrape that splitter on every little curb or bump, but man does it look cool.
4. It’s a $6,500 Option
How much will the PP2 run you? Well, it’s a $6,500 option. That seems like a lot, but once you consider the fact that the base price of the Mustang GT is only about $35,000, it’s not so bad.
Also, consider the fact that you’re getting a MagneRide suspension system, extra aero bits, tightened steering and big wheels and tires from the factory, it might even be a bargain.
5. It Sounds Great, Duh
It’s a naturally aspirated, 5.0-liter V8, for crying out loud. How could it not sound great?