Which to buy, 2005 - 2009?

[tumbler05]

Looking to get into a S197 Stang, don't know much of anything about them. Just looking for general advice on what I should look out for, any of the years to stay away from, any significant differences in the 5 years etc???

 

[stang06girl]

They are all pretty much equal. The 2009 has the smaller spark plugs which elliminates the spark plug TSB, which is a real minor thing, but other than that... they are all pretty much the same.

 

[GoneFord]

I'd really try to get a late 2008 model. The issues with the early plug design might be minor, but not if it happens to you. Otherwise, they are pretty much the same - just different available options like ambient lighting or HID headlights.

Regardless, after you get one you can make it the way you like.

 

[tumbler05]

Great, I'll have to do some research on this spark plug issue. Thanks for the advice.

 

[chgovfk]

Not sure how much experience you have in looking for used cars - but if your going to buy it off a dealer - watch out / be careful - try to find one that has the lowest miles and in the best shape for your budget - I would also suggest you buy one with the deluxe interior (leather steering wheel and upgraded dash) - the basic is a plastic type steering wheel (looks cheapy to me) also stay away from a heavily 'modded' mustang (you want to start w/a bone stock one - maybe if it has a CAI or some exhaust work it's ok) - but stay away from the juiced or supercharged ones unless there are receipts from a good shop included - you'll want a fresh slate to start with.

 

[JRC702]

I just picked up a late production '08.
I did some research (I do tend to ever-research things) and the spark plug issue did concern me enough to look harder at the late '08s and up.
2009s are kind of hard to find due to low production numbers.

Took me 2 months to find one that met my criteria and I had to fly to from Vegas to Phoenix to pick it up. Absolutely love the car.

 

[joe17752001]

also have to consider buying one with what you want to do with the car I.E. if it's in your buget to get a shelby gt they come stock with suspention and lowing springs hood pins, and a cold air in take! they can be had for in the low to mid $20 range.

 

[SpartaPerformance]

I'm partial to the 2007 being I own one

 

[08MTANG25]

Also remember that in '07+ they started using the TPMS system so if you change out your wheels you'll have to buy a relocation kit to turn off the light in your dash.

 

[JRC702]

Also remember that in '07+ they started using the TPMS system so if you change out your wheels you'll have to buy a relocation kit to turn off the light in your dash.

TPMS was optional until 2010, then it became mandatory I think.

 

[supared]

I just bought an early 08 model, GT Premium, Torch red/blk leather, Premium Pkg, scoop. Wanted the Shaker 1000, but the 500 still has impressive sound. Loving this car! Had a heavily modded '93 LX knotchback 5.0 (10s car) back in '97. Don't think I'll be going as extreme with this car.

 

[supared]

I just bought an early 08 model, GT Premium, Torch red/blk leather, Premium Pkg, scoop. Wanted the Shaker 1000, but the 500 still has impressive sound. Loving this car! Had a heavily modded '93 LX knotchback 5.0 (10s car) back in '97. Don't think I'll be going as extreme with this car.

 

[supared]

I just bought an early 08 model, GT Premium, Torch red/blk leather, Premium Pkg, scoop. Wanted the Shaker 1000, but the 500 still has impressive sound. Loving this car! Had a heavily modded '93 LX knotchback 5.0 (10s car) back in '97. Don't think I'll be going as extreme with this car.

 

[supared]

I just bought an early 08 model, GT Premium, Torch red/blk leather, Premium Pkg, scoop. Wanted the Shaker 1000, but the 500 still has impressive sound. Loving this car! Had a heavily modded '93 LX knotchback 5.0 (10s car) back in '97. Don't think I'll be going as extreme with this car.

 

[supared]

I just bought an early 08 model, GT Premium, Torch red/blk leather, Premium Pkg, scoop. Also has the TPMS. Wanted the Shaker 1000, but the 500 still has impressive sound. Loving this car! Had a heavily modded '93 LX knotchback 5.0 (10s car) back in '97. Don't think I'll be going as extreme with this car.