In my view, these two events within the space of 30 minutes are representative, regardless of age or generation, of the new

Nowhere on the vehicle is there a "Mustang" nameplate or badge, but that doesn't stop it from being instantly recognizable. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

Mustang's appeal. The DNA from the 1960s Mustangs is bred so effectively into the new pony, that when first displayed, folks of all ages knew instantly that it was a Mustang. Nowhere on the vehicle, though, is there a "Mustang" nameplate or badge - that is brand awareness manufacturers would kill for. My first ride in the '05 Mustang GT was in an early production model piloted, or should I say rocketed, by none other than Champ Car racing driver, Alex Tagliani, during a Ford press event. After the first drop of the clutch, I knew Ford had more than just a great-looking retro car on its hands. The "GT" designation puts a growling V8, hooked-up to the rear wheels through either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox, beneath the Mustang's long hood. This isn't a drivetrain for wimps or tree huggers; it's an edgy,

The "GT" designation puts a growling V8, hooked-up to the rear wheels through either a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic gearbox, beneath the Mustang's long hood. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

performance-oriented setup that likes its fuel. And according to my auditory perception, it's also the best sounding American iron in today's performance market. With the aid of three valves-per-cylinder, the 4.6-litre (281 cu in) SOHC V8 hammers out 300 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque. That amount of kick is inspiring for a vehicle tipping the scales, in GT togs, at only 1,563 kg (3,445 lb). Although peak torque arrives when the tachometer is soaring at 5,400 rpm, there is plenty of it available throughout the rev range thanks to the engine's variable valve timing technology.