GT500 vs 370Z

Lug · 01-06-2010, 12:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NYBladeZ

This debate will always rage on, Mustang guys don't like Z's, Z's don't like Mustangs. Anyways, concerning the 2011 Mustang yes it is making 412 at crank with the new aluminum 5.0 v8. However, it will still weigh more than the outgoing GT early estimates range from 3600-3800 pounds. Mustangs are heavy, simple fact, no matter how much aluminum they sneak in. Lastly, you cannot discuss Mustangs without bringing up the live axle. The live axle is the #1 reason why Z's are superior in feel and track results. If I had to guess I'd say the 2011 Mustang GT will probably do around mid to low 13's. Ford is not going to mass produce a car that is comparably fast to the GT500 at a fraction of the price and no stock Mustang GT in Ford's history has broken 13's.

Even if the 2011 Mustang is 3800lbs, it will break 13's easy, probably around 12.8. If Ford can really get it at 3500, it should be closing in on 12.5's. In general greater displacement also means torque per HP. Ford's problem may be more getting a good hookup than power.

ZKindaGuy · 01-06-2010, 03:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lug

Even if the 2011 Mustang is 3800lbs, it will break 13's easy, probably around 12.8. If Ford can really get it at 3500, it should be closing in on 12.5's. In general greater displacement also means torque per HP. Ford's problem may be more getting a good hookup than power.

I agree with you totally in regards to your observation of hookup and power. The Ford modular 4.6 in the 06 to 09 Mustang GT models make 300 ft-lbs of wheel torque in stock configuration. When the torque curve begins its drop the HP is still increasing to reach its peak.

The problem is the torque is all there at launch with Mustangs that the clutch has to be feathered into the launch off the line in order to get the tires to hook right away. And this takes an experienced driver to be able to consistently hook more often than not.....not some weekend wannabee...and certainly not by some puzzy-azz rolling start.

As I said before and I'll say it again...the best anyone owning a stock Z can say is that on any given run a stock Z or a stock Mustang GT (06-10) can win and most of the time they will be trading noses the majority of a race. There is NO KILLING of a Mustang GT (06-10) by a Z.