_{FIFTH GENERATION: 2005–2014 - S197}

“Something old, something new” summarised the theme for the new 2005 model year. Guided by Ford’s world renowned design chief J Mays, the 2005 blended a host of Mustang heritage cues with modern age power-trains and platform, with the 4.6 V8 now with 300 hp as the standard power offering.

The new chassis was significantly more refined and rigid than its predecessors, especially in convertibles. Longer wheelbase resulted in significant improvements in passenger comfort and capacity, and sales were boosted by a succession of factory specials, including Shelby GT’s, a Shelby Hertz program, California Specials and a 2008 Bullitt celebration model. Given the success of the 2005 model program in the US, it’s no wonder that ’05 to ’09 models have played such a large part in the increased number of late model LHD Mustangs imported into NZ!