roninsoldier83 wrote:+1
While I like the idea of a Mustang having a V8, offering a turbo 4 (again) is a real sign of the times. It's been a while since they offered a turbo 4 ('84-86' SVO?), but due to ever stringent emissions and fuel economy mandates, I'm not terribly surprised.
A lot of other companies have killed off their larger motors here lately, or at least offered smaller entry motors due to regulations and to some degree, lack of interest from the masses(<---blasphemy!!). The BMW 3-series no longer comes standard with an I6, unlike the E46 & E90 cars before it... Audi no longer offers a V6 (VR6?) in the A3 & A4... Mercedes now offers a FWD 4-cylinder *cough*CLA*cough* (<---what is the world coming to?!?)... Even high-end performance oriented cars that scoff at fuel economy have gotten (or are getting) smaller motors recently: BMW M5 (from V10 to V8), BMW M3 (from V8 back to I6), Audi S4 (from V8 to supercharged V6), Mercedes C63 AMG (from 6.2L to 4.0L).
I must admit I've taken part in this phenomenon as well; the old VW R32 came with a 3.2L VR6, which was replaced by my Golf R's turbo 2.0L I4. While the new motor/car is lighter, faster and more fuel efficient, I must admit I was always a big fan of the throttle response and sound of the old VR6!
Apparently the "we offer a smaller, more fuel efficient motor" trend is biting everyone; American pony cars included. All I can say is: at least Ford is still offering a big, hairy chested V8 to those out there who still care.
Just my $.02
C63 WENT TO A 4.0L!?!?!?!? Nooooo
