Mustang drivers who want more kick from their American fastback or convertible can now rejoice and give thanks to Ford Performance, who have announced an engine upgrade pack for cars either fitted with the 2.3-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder or the 5.0-litre GT’s atmospherical V8.
In pure numbers, the upgrades take the EcoBoost motor and endows it with an extra 19kW and 95Nm of torque for a total of 250kW and 529Nm - enough twisting force to match the stock V8, nearly, which produces 542Nm. Such is the magic of forced induction.
For the V8-powered Mustang GT, the power increases are less dramatic in context but would no-doubt be noticeable. Three upgraded packs are available for this configuration, with the motor being able to produce as much as 352kW (a 28kW gain) and 549Nm but also across a wider rev range and a loftier redline.
Additionally, units fitted with a manual transmission will receive a no-lift-shift feature, enabling drivers to maximise acceleration by allowing shifts without lifting off the throttle.
But unlike the Shelby GTE upgrade that we covered previously which would result in a bill totalling US$17,999, the Ford Performance option costs a mere fraction at US$699 (or approximately $926 in our money). Having said that, the Shelby conversion is much more comprehensive and goes well beyond upping engine power - covering areas like the suspension, brakes, wheels, exterior, and interior.
However, it would be fair to speculate that Shelby used tuning input from Ford Performance as those gains seem to be nearly identical and achieved via similar means for both the turbo four-pot and the V8.
Specifically, they stem from engine calibration, ECU mapping, and a high-flow air filter as well as a cold air intake for the V8 GT, a new 87mm throttle body, and an intake adapter from the Shelby GT350.
With these upgrade packs being products of Ford Performance, there’s a much higher chance of them reaching Aussie shores. And they being fully covered by the standard warranty is a big boost too.
For more on Ford vehicles, including pricing and specifications, check out our Showroom.
