Based on the compact Falcon, the Mustang was the first "pony car" and inspired many imitations. Most versions of the instantly popular Mustang had 6-cylinder power, but when powered up with a 427 cubic-inch V-8 engine, it was muscular enough to be the pace car in the 1964 Indianapolis 500. A few months later, the Mustang showcased its style in
Goldfinger. Ford sold more than 1 million units in its first 18 months, and turned Ford division chief Lee Iacocca into an industry star.
But the 1970s oil crisis gelded the Mustang, which sacrificed power and style in pursuit of lower gas mileage. The so-called Fifth Generation of Mustangs introduced for the 2005 model year was a hit all over again, and while the basic engine is still a V-6, the GT version comes with a 4.6-liter V-8.
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