2013 Ford Mustang GT: The Boss 302 Laguna Seca

On this episode of Ignition, Carlos Lago drives the new 2013 Ford Mustang GT. Now featuring 420 horsepower and enhanced performance options, this latest version of the 5.0 seems to offer the power and handling potential of a bargain Boss 302 Laguna Seca. But does it deliver?

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Looks and Power

Changes for the 2013 MY include a more aggressive design with a more prominent grille, a new hood, and new LED signature lighting. There is also an optional GT Track Package that brings an engine cooler, an upgraded radiator, performance friction brake pads, and the same Torsen differential found on the Mustang Boss 302.

Power for the 2013 Mustang will comes from a 5.0-liter V6 that delivers a total of 420 HP - a 8 HP increase over the previous 412 HP.

"The new Mustang is the perfect example of continuing to build on excellence. It takes the greatness of the 5.0-liter and V6 and pushes the refinement to the next level," said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. "The car has been spot-on functionally and now we’re adding more features and technology to further improve the driver’s experience."

Source: Topspeed

One of the regular complaints about the 2010-2012 Ford Mustang styling was the heavy amounts of black plastic running along the bottom of the sides and rear of the car but on the 2013 Ford Mustang and Mustang GT, Ford has gone with body-colored trim to give the pony car a more upscale look.

Braking Power of the 2013 Boss 302 Mustang

No doubt, the car was designed to be fast and precise, but what about braking power? Well, the 2013 Boss 302 Mustang features Brembo four-piston calipers acting on 14-inch vented rotors up front. The rear features standard Mustang GT brakes upgraded with a Boss-specific high-performance pad compound.

Ford says the combination of vented brake shields and unique Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) tuning gives Boss drivers maximum control and rapid, repeatable fade-free stops in road and race situations alike. As with the 2012 model, the 2013 Boss Mustang will feature a unique quad exhaust designed to create plenty of rumble on the road.

Prices: Boss 302 and Laguna Seca model

The Boss 302 will start at $42,995, with the Laguna Seca model starting at $49,990. These prices have been adjusted to include a $750 destination fee. The car should become available in the Spring of 2012. The 2013 Boss Ford Mustang will be built at AutoAlliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich.

Source: About Mustangs