The engine snorts on startup, and delivers a totally different aural experience than the normal Mustang GT. The empty, bellowing howl is gone- replaced by a deep, guttural sort of tone that will make drivers want to leave the car in second gear all day long.
Blast through a couple of gears, and Bullitt makes a head-turning, old-school muscle-car burble that penetrates into buildings and is audible a half mile away.
It comes from the Mustang GT's award-winning 4.6 litre V8, with some special tweaks to help generate a few extra ponies. The engine management system has been optimized to raise redline by 250 RPM, while a special sensor enhances torque output if owners opt to fill it with premium.
A Ford Racing intake system scoops up fresh air, helping to enable an extra 15 ponies for a total of 315. Additionally, a taller 3.73 final drive gives the Bullitt longer legs.
Not just noise!
It's not just a bit more thrust and sound effects that define the Bullitt- as Ford's added some handling and suspension revisions to the model as well. A strut tower brace wearing the car's numbered plaque runs across the engine compartment, while upgraded shocks, springs and sway bars are fitted beneath.
The overall effect of the handling upgrades is noticeable as a sharper and more instant reaction to steering inputs, while maintaining Mustangs trademark easygoing ride.
Thing is, the light steering lacks much feedback or weight, giving the fingertips only a little sensation of the grip available. Mustangs are many things, but agile isn't one of them.
The sleeper Mustang
With the visual downgrades and performance upgrades, the Bullitt is a bit less exciting to look at but a bit more exciting to drive. It's also incredibly more exciting to listen to.
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| The engine delivers a totally different aural experience than the normal Mustang GT. |
Blast through a couple of gears, and Bullitt makes a head-turning, old-school muscle-car burble that penetrates into buildings and is audible a half mile away.
It comes from the Mustang GT's award-winning 4.6 litre V8, with some special tweaks to help generate a few extra ponies. The engine management system has been optimized to raise redline by 250 RPM, while a special sensor enhances torque output if owners opt to fill it with premium.
A Ford Racing intake system scoops up fresh air, helping to enable an extra 15 ponies for a total of 315. Additionally, a taller 3.73 final drive gives the Bullitt longer legs.
Not just noise!
It's not just a bit more thrust and sound effects that define the Bullitt- as Ford's added some handling and suspension revisions to the model as well. A strut tower brace wearing the car's numbered plaque runs across the engine compartment, while upgraded shocks, springs and sway bars are fitted beneath.
The overall effect of the handling upgrades is noticeable as a sharper and more instant reaction to steering inputs, while maintaining Mustangs trademark easygoing ride.
Thing is, the light steering lacks much feedback or weight, giving the fingertips only a little sensation of the grip available. Mustangs are many things, but agile isn't one of them.
The sleeper Mustang
With the visual downgrades and performance upgrades, the Bullitt is a bit less exciting to look at but a bit more exciting to drive. It's also incredibly more exciting to listen to.
 |
| This upgraded model is set apart in the looks department by a visual downgrade. |