Ford Mustang 2.3L High Performance Package Aims At Autocross

Ford has unveiled a new high-performance Mustang that is aimed directly at the enthusiasts out there wanting a car that can compete on the autocross course. The car is the 2.3L High Performance Package that is hailed as the most powerful four-cylinder sports car offered by an American automaker. The 2.3L EcoBoost four makes 330hp and 350 lb-ft of torque.

It wasn't that long ago that you had to buy the Mustang GT with a V8 to get that level of power. The 2010 Mustang GT with its V8 engine made only 315 bhp and 325 lb-ft of torque. The 2.3L High Performance Package also gets other tidbits off the current GT to up its performance.

The car gets chassis and aerodynamic upgrades from the Mustang GT Performance Package. 2.3L High Performance Package buyers get a car with 53/47 weight distribution, four-piston fixed front brake calipers, performance calibration for power steering, antilock brakes, and stability control. The car offers five drive modes and a 3.55:1 limited-slip rear axle.

The car rolls on 19x9-inch machined aluminum face wheels with 255/40R summer tires. Styling tidbits include blacked-out grille with tri-bar pony emblem, special 2.3L High Performance Package side badges, and magnetic gray side mirrors and a raised blade rear spoiler. Buyers can opt for an EcoBoost Handling Package as well.

That package includes semi-metallic brake pads, specially calibrated Magneride dampers, wider 19x9.5 painted wheels with 265/40R PirelliP Zero Corsa4 summer tires, and more. The special performance package will be offered on the entry-level coupe and convertible Mustangs this summer with either the 10-speed auto or 6-speed manual transmission. Ford says the 0-60mph time will be in the mid-4-second range. Pricing is unannounced; the car will hit dealers this fall.