First Drive: Ford Mustang California

First Drive: Ford Mustang California

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‍There's definitely something about the Ford Mustang. Since the launch of the current, sixth generation of the model back in 2015, more than 3,652 units - accounting for 87% market share - have found homes in SA.

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That's quite a feat. Initially, the Mustang was launched locally in both the 2.3-litre Ecoboost and the burly 5.0-litre V8, and, thankfully, the marque has come to its senses by ceasing the import of the former. I mean, one of the prime reasons you'd buy a Mustang, besides the looks and heritage, is the V8 engine nestling under the bonnet and the glorious noise it makes. I mean, who wants a paltry four-cylinder engine in their Mustang? It is the culinary equivalent of going to a revered steakhouse and ordering a lentil soup – it's sacrilegious.

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To keep the model relevant and on people's buying lists, special edition Mustangs have made a windfall in recent years. These count the characterful Bullit version that was exclusively offered with a British Racing Green paintwork and a manual transmission. Only 55 units were brought into SA, so if you can find one, hang on to it as it is likely to appreciate in value. In June 2021, yet another limited edition model - 100 units - of the Mustang Mach 1 was launched in SA. It boasts a signature off-grey lick of paint with contrasting black and orange colour inserts.

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Cali Stang

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Most recently, Ford has brought us yet another limited version of the Pony car in the form of the California Special (GT/CS) and, yet again, only 100 units are coming to SA. It pays homage to the original 1964 California Special and can be distinguished by a blacked-out grille, GT performance wing on the rear deck and side-scoops, which are sadly ornate and not functional. The cabin, too, is festooned with special edition items such as the CS name embroidered in the seats, while a California Special insert/plaque nestles on the drop-down fascia on the passenger side.

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Under the bonnet still beats the heart of the characterful, Coyote 5.0-litre V8 engine making 330 kW and 528 Nm via a 10-speed automatic gearbox driving the rear wheels. It might not be the first word in blistering performance, but what the Mustang lacks in outright performance, it more than makes up for in character. There are many, more powerful and more expensive sportscars on the market, but very few have the alluring and enigmatic character such as the Mustang. Pass by a school in a Mustang and kids point and shout in awe, which is something that a 'Stang easily musters more than any other car in its price range.

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Riding the pony

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Driving a Mustang quickly is like riding a Bucking Bronco; it requires some deftness as it isn't what one would deem the sharpest sportscar in the segment, yet there's still something satisfyingly good in doing so. Perhaps it has all to do with the raucous, V8 sound from its quad exhausts. That is as old-school as modern V8s go. It also comes with an LSD (Limited-Slip Differential) to ensure maximum grip levels off the line and out of tight corners. Of course, you can switch off all the nanny electronics and drive it like an absolute yobo and leave unofficial black road markings in your tyre wake. For me, it is these nuances that continue to make the Mustang one of the coolest cars currently available on the market. It isn't the best built, nor the most dynamic or fastest, yet people continue to buy it in their droves. It's quite an enigma, the Ford Mustang, and that remains its strongest suit. 

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The Ford Mustang California Special is priced at R1,154,900. According to Ford, however, all 100 units have already been spoken for.

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