chriskarel

Hey guys I just joined this forum today because I am doing some early research into the world of Mustangs. I aim to buy one in the Spring of 2011 and will be heavily modding it (as much as I can afford anyway) My price ceiling will be about $15000, so I figure that would get me a very clean Mustang. I'm looking at the 2004-2007 area. Long story short, I'm wondering which body can handle more power, or is it a draw? Which body style has more annoying little things that happen, ie rattles and what not? I assume there is equal amount of product support for both generations? I know the 05+ years have a base 300hp so that may be the deal breaker right there, but any and all input is much appreciated. Thanks.

onederful100

i have a 2000 GT and a 2007 GT
the 2000 GT has about all the bolt ons and feels slightly faster than a stock S197
the ceiling for the NE/SN95 mustangs is about 350-400 rwhp, whereas the S197 ceiling is around 450-500, each with their stock internals.
seeing as you have a $15,000 limit, i would suggest you go with the New Edge mustang
you can do more modding under that limit
with the S197, your modding will be somewhat limited with your budget.

smokestang

With a limit of 15k, id have to agree on the older style too. if youre willing to go a little lower in age, theres some great deals to be had on the 96-98 cobras and youd still have a 300hp car (still some really low mileage ones out there) and those years had the best built 4V 4.6 of all the N/A cobras! just a thought.

stealth_GT

I'd get an S197. Get whatever mods you want to make it look good, then save up for a blower right away.

Alec

I'd try to find a S197 GT for $15k, as in my opinion, it's a better car in every aspect. If not, I'd look for a SN95 Mach 1 or Cobra

Torch Red GT

I agree with him, either get a s197gt or a sn95 mach 1 or cobra or even a saleen/roush.

808muscle

Yup.......last October I was In your shoes. I ended up finding a 06 gt with 15k miles for $15.6. Am really stoked on my purchase too. The only sn97 I liked was the Mach 1's, they are sweet.

Save your cash and buy the car you really want. Don't compromise.

stealth_GT

ah crap.. does this mean I should sell my 08 GT and get A Detomaso Pantera?

drewsky

ide get either a 03/04 mach 1. or on 05/ 06 gt. i personally would go for the S197. 3v 4.6 is a good motor plus better looking car...

rdsx18

I'd get either an s197 or an older cobra or mach 1, my buddy picked up his 99 cobra for 9k.