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The 2020 Ford Mustang: Why the Automatic Transmission is the Better Choice
The 2018 Ford Mustang underwent significant improvements, including increased horsepower, torque, and redline RPM. With these enhancements, one might expect the new Mustang to outperform its predecessor in terms of acceleration. Surprisingly, Motor Trend’s tests revealed that both the 2018 and 2015-2017 Mustang GT models achieved the same 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds. This unexpected outcome can be attributed to changes in the gear ratios of the manual transmission and the introduction of a 10-speed automatic transmission in the 2018 model.
In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind the 2015-2017 Ford Mustang GT’s superior gear ratios and explore the impact of the altered ratios on the performance of the 2018 Mustang. By understanding these factors, we gain insights into the intricate relationship between transmission choices and vehicle performance.
The 2015-2017 Ford Mustang GT: A Closer Look at the Gear Ratios
The 2015-2017 Ford Mustang GT featured a six-speed manual transmission with the following gear ratios:
- 1st gear: 3.60:1
- 2nd gear: 2.34:1
- 3rd gear: 1.69:1
- 4th gear: 1.29:1
- 5th gear: 1.00:1
- 6th gear: 0.84:1
These gear ratios were carefully chosen to optimize acceleration, fuel efficiency, and overall driving experience. The lower ratios in the first three gears provide strong acceleration from a standstill, while the higher ratios in the upper gears allow for efficient highway cruising.
The 2018 Ford Mustang GT: Changes in Gear Ratios and the Introduction of the 10-Speed Automatic
In 2018, Ford made significant changes to the Mustang’s gear ratios. The six-speed manual transmission received the following revised ratios:
- 1st gear: 3.36:1
- 2nd gear: 2.00:1
- 3rd gear: 1.66:1
- 4th gear: 1.28:1
- 5th gear: 1.00:1
- 6th gear: 0.85:1
Additionally, Ford introduced a new 10-speed automatic transmission as an option for the 2018 Mustang GT. This transmission features a wide range of gear ratios, allowing for precise control over engine RPM and maximizing performance.
Impact of the Gear Ratio Changes on Performance
The changes in gear ratios between the 2015-2017 and 2018 Ford Mustang GT models had a noticeable impact on performance. The revised ratios in the manual transmission resulted in slightly slower acceleration, as evidenced by the identical 0-60 mph times recorded by Motor Trend for both models.
The 10-speed automatic transmission, on the other hand, offered improved acceleration compared to the manual transmission. This can be attributed to the automatic transmission’s ability to select the optimal gear for any given situation, resulting in smoother and more efficient power delivery.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the 2018 Ford Mustang GT boasts impressive engine upgrades, its performance in terms of acceleration is not significantly better than its predecessor due to changes in gear ratios. The 2015-2017 Mustang GT’s superior gear ratios provide a more engaging driving experience, particularly for enthusiasts who prefer manual transmissions. However, the 10-speed automatic transmission introduced in 2018 offers improved acceleration and convenience for those seeking a more refined driving experience.