Standard are P215/65R16 96T tires on 16 by 7-inch alloy wheels, with the GT getting 17-inch rims and P235/55ZR17 98W
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| Besides bigger wheels and tires, the GT also comes equipped with a sport-tuned suspension. (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
performance tires. The GT also comes equipped with a sport-tuned suspension featuring a 1.3 inch (34 mm) tubular front stabilizer bar upgrade from the stock 1.1 inch (28.6 mm) component, and the addition of an 0.7 inch (18 mm) stabilizer bar in the rear where none is present in V6 trim. Both suspension systems incorporate reverse-L independent MacPherson struts up front and a 3-link solid axle setup with coil springs and a Panhard rod in the rear.
Steering is power actuated rack-and-pinion, with a tight 2.83 turns lock-to-lock in the GT and 3.13 in the V6. The latter offers a slightly tighter turning radius, however, at 36 feet compared to 38 feet for the GT, making it more maneuverable in parking situations.
Ford has upgraded the Convertible's unibody for safety reasons, reinforced with the automaker's Personal Safety
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| Ford has upgraded the Convertible's unibody for safety reasons, reinforced with the automaker's Personal Safety System (PSS). (Photo: Ford Motor Company) |
System (PSS). The addition of standard 4-wheel vented disc brakes, 11.8 by 1.2 inches of swept area in front and rear in V6 trim, and 12.4 by 1.2 inches in front and 11.4 by 0.8 inches in the rear when upgraded to the GT, should make for controllable stops just as they did in coupe trim. All calipers are 1.7 inches (43 mm) and floating, with those in front twin-piston and aluminum and those out back single-piston and iron. ABS is an option, just like the coupe, and when chosen comes with traction control.
