1) We don't know for sure if the IRS would be more expensive. If anything, it would be the R&D, but doubtful it would be the materials or installation time. Some reports have the cost difference at $100 (though, validity is unknown). Not exactly killing the affordability ticket.

Heck, we don't even know if the hp bump in the 5.0 will be "expensive" or not.

2) I don't know why everyone brings up racing and the SRA--how many actually race their cars??? The IRS is better for having both comfort and performance. You just can't get away from the less unsrpung weight of the IRS, and it's benefits for a better ride. And, I still have yet to see/drive an SRA deal with mid-corner bumps with confidence (while being driven hard).

There is a reason every other car on the market today (that I am aware of) has an IRS -- and it isn't because all other makers want heavy cars.

 

OEMs don't care about mag reviews.
They care about sales.

The Camaro has outsold the Mustang for 4 straight months now (first time in history).

Sept. 09 sales:
Camaro - 7,961
Mustang - 4,917

That isn't even close in sales figures.

Now, there are several things working here -- unfulfilled Camaro orders from all the hype, and smart Mustang buyers waiting for the '11. But, it makes a huge statement that Ford must step up the power (which it is) and still keep the price competitive.

 

I know exactly what OEM's care about and it would be way too risky and bad business to replace the 4.6L
I suspect these internet rumors are a little to blame for the bad sales of the Mustang.

Everyone must forget there are Roush Mustangs and SC upgrades you can get at the dealership.....Ford knows this and they also know they have the Shelby which has the power.
The GT does NOT need to compete with the Camaro.
I'm sure many would disagree but when the price tag comes out for the 5.0L that does many of them wont be paying up.

 

Just out of curiosity, where did you get the 200-300# weight figure?

This is about the "less than ideal" Cobra IRS:
"The IRS assembly weighs about 80 pounds more than the solid-axle setup on the Mustang GT, but it allows a 125-lb reduction in unsprung suspension weight."

source: http://www.thecarconnection.com/full...d_mustang_1999

Just for reference, that is about a tank of gas in weight, or a blower. Not exactly a crushing figure.

 

A 427R is what... $50k?
So, you are saying that if a potential Mustang owner cared about power, they would pony up $20k for a Roush? Or $15k for a GT500?

A Mustang buyer is interested in power, performance, style and price. Which is exactly what a Camaro owner is interested in. Hence, they are direct competitors. Most of the buyers out there are not brand-loyal, but are quite cost-conscious. $1-2k for 110hp more in the Camaro is certainly a figure on potential buyers minds.

 

....And if you read the comparison of the mustang, camaro, and dodge, why pay more for less gas milega, gas guzzler tax, and they all run the top speed and 1/4 mile in about same times, and mustang out performed all over all. just my opinion, when i did my test ride i sat in back, 6 ' tall, was fine, i'm lovin my car. I never owned or drove a mustang til i took delivery, i let salesman drive while i observed, this is the most solid car i have ever owner and i have owned over 15 car, bmw z3 and many other in that class, what a car, i have taken exit ramps that have 55 limit that hook around in a loop, at well better not mention, but boy sge holds.

 

Ford would not sell another mustang other than the 2011 with the 5.0 if it came out next year.

I suspect its gonna come out in 2012 with the boss edition mustang, which will be placed in between the gt500 and mustang gt.


If you are waiting for a 2011 because its gonna have a 5.0, keep in mind, it won't be nearly as modular, and its price is unknown. the 4.6 has been around for ages, and it has more aftermarket support then I can pretend to know about.

 

It should be an interesting next couple of years! I think the Mustang is going in the right direction. With or without the 5.0.

 

Did you not read there are SC upgrades form the dealer or are you going to bring up warranty issues too. It would be more accurate to say SOME of the buyers are not brand loyal as most that buy the Mustang and Camaro ARE.
And do you really think a more powerful Mustang is going to be the same price as the 4.6L GT we have now.

 

I don't know where these huge Camaro sales are? Living in the Car Capitol of the world (SoCal) I have only seen 3 Camaros to date.