Drag Racing Core Buyers Force Ford to Keep Anachronistic Chassis Architecture
It's hard to believe but the news regarding the 2005 Mustang's rear suspension is official. After much speculation regarding a progression to a fully independent setup, it seems the sheetmetal won't be the only retro touch. Under the skin it will still incorporate a live rear axle.
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| In what comes as a surprise to many, Ford has announced the 2005 Mustang will still incorporate a live rear axle, instead of the speculated fully independent setup. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
Why the continuation of what many consider to be a substandard suspension system? The model's core buyers prefer the straight-line performance the old system offers over the dynamic handling available with an independent rear suspension.
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| Although it will be good for straight-line performance, the live axle setup is seen as a step backwards in terms of sports car handling. This announcement will likely have competitors, such as Nissan's 350Z, sighing a breath of relief. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
This news should be taken well by Ford's imported competition. Sightings of the new car at the North American International Auto Show no doubt caused some concern, but few auto enthusiasts familiar with the benefits of a fully independent suspension will be willing to go backwards in time to drive a much simpler, less rewarding sports car. For these a live axle setup is too antiquated, with poor handling characteristics when compared side by side with competitors such as Nissan's 350Z.
But Ford's accounting department will be smiling all the way to the bank. The division will appreciate the savings derived from the much less expensive live axle configuration.