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Powerful performance in V8 versions, eye-catching retro styling inside and out, friendly ergonomics.More features are added to the 2008 Ford Mustang. This includes standard front seat side airbags, available xenon headlights and, for the V6 models, 18-inch alloy wheels. Those who have a thing for pink should be thrilled with the new Warriors in Pink package that provides their ride with that color's accents inside and out. Sales of this package also help support the Susan G. Komen cancer charity.

The 2008 Ford Mustang is available as a coupe or convertible in four trim levels: V6 Deluxe, V6 Premium, GT Deluxe and GT Premium. The V6 Deluxe includes keyless entry, 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, cruise control, a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The V6 Premium adds a "Shaker 500" premium audio system with CD changer, upgraded wheels and a power driver seat. An optional Pony Package for V6 Mustangs includes firmer suspension tuning, 17-inch wheels, foglamps and a unique grille. The convertible versions feature a power vinyl top with cloth material as an option.
Behind the grille of V6 Mustangs is a 4.0-liter V6 making 210 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. The rip-snorting GT sports a 4.6-liter V8 with 300 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. That power gets to the ground through either a five-speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission; all Mustangs are rear-wheel drive. The GT with a manual transmission can run to 60 mph in about 5.7 seconds and clear the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds.
Four-wheel disc brakes and front seat side airbags are standard on all Mustangs. Antilock brakes and traction control are optional on the V6 models and standard on the GT. Neither stability control nor full-length head curtain airbags are available.
With its dual-hooded dash, three-spoke steering wheel and old-school gauges, the cabin of the 2008 Mustang gives more than a nod to the past. Yet this is not an outdated, ergonomic mess -- controls are simple and the seats are comfortable, though they could use more lateral support for enthusiast drivers.

Though fit and finish are generally good, the interior has an abundance of hard, monotone plastics that would be disappointing at any price point. Springing for the Interior Upgrade Package helps somewhat, providing satin aluminum accents and color-changeable backlighting for the instruments -- at the press of a button, one can choose either white, blue, green or orange hues. Both the Mustang coupe and convertible offer seating for four, and average-size adults can sit in back with little problem.

Acceleration is respectable with the V6, regardless of whether you choose the fun-to-shift manual or the responsive automatic. The Mustang GT provides the quintessential muscle car experience, of course, with loads of torque available right off the line and an exhaust note to match. Powerful brakes rein in the Mustang in short order, as a stop from 60 mph takes less than 125 feet. Despite its switch to an all-new platform a few years ago, the 2008 Ford Mustang continues to use a rather basic solid-axle rear suspension design. This allows Ford to keep the pricing low, and careful tuning results in reasonably precise handling through the corners and a surprisingly compliant ride.