1974 Ford Mustang II: Motor Trend Car of the Year
The original Mustang was produced to compete with sports cars from overseas (mainly Britain). It was an immediate success. Unfortunately, over the years, it became progressively larger, with bigger and bigger engines. Along came the energy crises brought on by the OPEC oill embargoes of the early 70s.. People turned away from “pony cars” such as the Mustang and Camaro. Buyers were looking for more economical gas misers such as Ford’s own Maverick and Pinto.
It was on this Pinto that the new Mustang II was based. The new Mustang sold 385 000 the first year and continued to sell well oer the next five years. It was available as a coupe or a three door hatchback with a base engine from the Pinto 2.3 litre 4 cylinder and a more upscale 2.8 litre V6. Later models would carry a V8 but with only 140 hp.
The Mustang II was criticized for being too small and underpowered. The handling and build were also criticized. In addition, the Firestone tires were known for their blowouts. With the cessation of the oil crisis, people were no longer as concerned with fuel economy. This brought on the demise of the Mustang II.
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