Taking a Road Trip

[Mr 5 0]

Originally posted by quattroboi

Are the 94-85 stangs really all that fun to drive? they just seem to be.. rather "middle of the road" cars- not as much power as before and more weight. Obviously I'm not a mustang enthusiast so I could be wrong- but that's why I was going for the 87ish era in mustangs- still had the good old 5.0 V8.

Anyway, if I was to look into a 94-95 anything special out you'd recommend? Also, as reliablity during the summer monthes goes- it is better to have EFI or carbs? I would think something with carbs would be easier to work on. I'm just afraid of being stuck in small town usa with a bmw or something.. only reason I say that is because it has happened to me before.
thanks!

Jeff:

The 94-95 Mustangs had the 5.0 (1995 was the final year before the changeover to the 4.6 OHC V-8) and yes, they are heavier so performance is down a bit - but not drastically and you're not looking to drag race it, anyway.

The 94-95 (SN95) Mustangs have a more sophisticated suspension than earlier models for better handling and a more ergonomic (comfortable) cockpit.

Ford's EFI system has been around since '87 and is very dependable...frankly, mechanics that are familiar with carbs are beginning to get harder to find, as most cars haven't used carbs for years. EFI problems are generally due to clogged fuel filters, failed fuel pumps or relays or clogged or leaking injectors, all easily repaired by a halfway knowledgable mechanic. Some Mustang V-8 parts are interchangable with full-sized Fords using the 5.0 engine, such as the Crown Victoria.

You can't go wrong with a '95 Mustang 5.0 that has low mileage and has been maintained properly. Dealer prices are around $10,000. and with your price parameters, you could probably find a very low mileage '95 for a bit more and still have lots left to go through it and replace any weak areas, such as exhaust (they rust out), and the usual items that you would want fresh for a 15,000 mile trip, such as battery, serpentine belt, full tune-up, brakes, tires and possibly a A/C re-charge and careful inspection of the cooling and charging system.

Most towns have a Ford or Mercury dealership within hailing distance, so no worries about being stranded, and the fun quotient is high in a Mustang V-8 convertible. Go for it.