LAS VEGAS – Sin City is all about new, with non-stop construction and roads through the desert like Clark County 215 that leads to nowhere in anticipation of the emergence of somewhere in five or 10 years.
But, it’s also a city that appreciates history, as the Rat Pack, Elvis and 99-cent shrimp cocktail remain part of the culture in a very real, everyday way.
That’s why I’m glad I took my first ride in a 2005 Mustang here this week.
In so many ways, this car is all about heritage, with its late ’60s fastback styling and its constant reminders lights, galloping ponies, recessed gauges, retro seats of what made this car an American icon.
Yet, in so many important ways, the 2005 Mustang is about what’s new. The chassis is new, and the suspension is much improved. Combined they give the Mustang new life.
A V-6 is available to keep the price down, and I would have preferred a stick shift, but I drove a satin silver GT with an automatic. Its 4.6-liter V-8 makes 300 horsepower, and that was enough to send this retro rocket scurrying through the desert.
The rumble upon acceleration was outstanding. And double takes, upraised thumbs and appreciative nods confirm the rightness of the look and sound.
Inside, the neat red seats contrasted with the black of the cabin. Red door inserts and floor mats both are options add more color. Still a two-door, four-seater, this coupe with its Shaker 1000 audio system would sell for about $29,000.
It’s a wonderful value, and an irresistible mix of old and new.
