HORSES FOR COURSES

IT’S TIME TO SETTLE THE MUSTANG POWERTRAIN DEBATE. IS THERE REALLY A REPLACEMENT FOR DISPLACEMENT?

- SCOTT NEWMAN

I'VE ONLY MYSELF to blame, really. Following a track outing in my' Ford Mustang 2.3 High-Performance long-termer last year, I proudly proclaimed that I believed it the pick of the non-Shelby litter for track use. While I'm not looking to make excuses, the caveat is that this was before the local introduction of the Mach 1, but his Enright-ness rightly called me out on the claim: Ok Scotty, prove it. If I must.

This is how we come to be present at Bryant Park hillclimb circuit with a Ford Mustang 2.3 High Performance, a Mustang V8 GT and a DriftBox with which to record the cold, hard data. But this test isn't purely about numbers; driving enjoyment is an equally valid way to determine an order of preference. Can the lighter, less powerful four-pot pony make a case for itself?

There are many good things about Bryant Park, but one is the fact that its twisting, undulating layout tends to, if not negate any power advantage, then at least render it less relevant than at a more traditional track. This is important as on paper the V8-powered GT is significantly superior when it comes to under-bonnet urge.

With the upgrades included as part of the MY18 facelift - dual injectors, plasma bore liners, larger intake and exhaust manifolds outputs leapt to 339kW at 7500rpm and 556Nm at 4600rpm. It's at its most potent when paired with the optional 10-speed automatic fitted here, though our test car does without the MagneRide adaptive dampers. What Aussie V8 Mustangs do have is some choice gear from the US Performance package, namely staggered rolling stock - 19.0 x 9.0-inch fronts with 255/40 tyres and 19.0 x 9.5-inch rears with 275/40s - and monster front brakes, the discs 380mm in diameter with six-piston Brembo calipers.