Ford Mustang GT California Special 2024: Powertrain, Perform

Ford Mustang GT California Special 2024: Powertrain, Perform

From Junaid Awan

I'm raising money for a cause I care about, but I need your help to reach my goal! Please become a supporter to follow my progress and share with your friends.

Support this campaign

Subscribe to follow campaign updates!

More Info

The 2024 Ford Mustang GT California Special thrills drivers with its potent performance capabilities and stand-out retro-inspired design. Available powertrain upgrades, handling packages and styling enhancements allow further customization of this exciting muscle car. The Mustang GT CS delivers an irresistible blend of power, performance and charisma.

Rumbling Power from the Mustang GT CS Engine

The new 2024 Mustang GT California Special turns heads with the rumbling power of its 5.0L V8 engine. This naturally aspirated eight-cylinder motor generates an eager 450 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. A smooth and responsive 10-speed automatic transmission efficiently delivers power to the rear wheels.

This muscular powertrain accelerates the GT CS from 0-60mph in under 4 seconds - hitting highway speeds with authority. The V8’s free-revving character and throaty exhaust note pump adrenaline at any speed. Intelligent control of torque delivery and gear selection optimize performance.

For even more aggressive acceleration, the available Ford Performance Power Pack boosts output to 460 hp and 420 lb-ft. This power upgrade enhances sprinting off the line and high-speed passing punch. On back roads, the GT CS rushes eagerly from corner to corner. This iconic V8 provides Mustang excitement.

Optional Performance Packages Boost Capability

The new Mustang GT California Special offers two optional packages to amplify performance - the Handling Package and GT Performance Package. These upgrades hone acceleration, handling and braking for even sharper driving excitement.

The Handling Package includes heavier-duty front springs, a larger front stabilizer bar, and a Torsen limited-slip differential. Performance brakes with 4-piston calipers and 14-inch rotors boost stopping power. Summer performance tires offer greater grip. This package dials handling dynamics to a razor-sharp edge.

Meanwhile, the GT Performance Package builds on that foundation by adding performance front brake calipers, a Pirelli summer tire upgrade, adjustable strut top mounts, and a rear spoiler. Customers can tailor this Mustang to carve corners with precision.

Thrilling Acceleration and High-Speed Handling

In factory form, the feisty Mustang GT CS rockets off the line and charges to 60 mph in just 4.3 adrenaline-pumping seconds. The V8’s eager power delivery and rear-drive traction make accelerating feel effortless. Refined automatic gear shifts keep the engine on boil without interruption.

Nimble handling complements straight-line speed. The GT CS changes direction sharply thanks to responsive electric power steering with well-balanced effort. Advanced chassis tuning and available performance packages keep body roll tidy through sweeping turns. Supportive front seats embrace hard cornering.

At higher speeds, the lowered and subtly flared body cuts smoothly through the air. The Performance Package rear spoiler adds stability. And powerful Brembo brakes rein in velocities with authority when needed. On back road sprints or highway merges, the GT CS delivers confidence.

Upgraded Suspension Components Enhance Handling Dynamics

To fully realize its performance potential, the Mustang GT California Special benefits from the available handling package upgrades. Heavier-duty springs lower the ride height by 0.5 inches for a planted feel and flatter cornering. The larger front stabilizer bar reduces body roll for poised turn-in.

A Torsen limited-slip rear differential further aids agility by smartly apportioning torque between the rear wheels. This allows powering through corners without understeer. Upgraded ABS tuning and substantial 14-inch front brake rotors enable later, harder stops. Pirelli summer tires offer tenacious dry grip.

Together these hardware enhancements create a precisely dialed suspension that takes handling dynamics to the next level. Drivers feel greater traction, responsiveness and control at the limit. On twisted back roads, the optimized GT CS becomes an extension of the driver for exhilarating mastery.

Exterior Design Cues Elevate Mustang Heritage

The exterior design of the 2022 Ford Mustang California Special masterfully blends retro inspiration with contemporary style. Classic elements honor heritage while modern details keep the muscle car feeling fresh. The artful fusion stirs nostalgia yet remains forward-looking.

Signature styling cues like the side scoop and unique rear fascia badge prominently nod to the original 1967 California Special model. Dual hood stripes echo the 1960s pony ornament. Blacked-out grille, badges and stripes exude modern sports car vibe. The lowered stance accentuates the classically sculpted fastback shape.

From the keen front visage to the widened haunches, this Mustang’s compelling form draws the eye. Special edition 20-inch alloy wheels and exclusive exterior paint options let owners express individuality. Thoughtful design distills Mustang essence into an evocative contemporary expression.

Custom Interior Design Options for Personalized Style

The Mustang GT California Special’s interior can be upgraded with unique design touches that increase personalization. Special edition serialized dash plates establish exclusive identity. Contrasting color accents and stitching on the dash, doors and steering wheel provide just the right custom flair.

Premium interior packages upgrade materials throughout for enhanced luxury. Miko suede door inserts bring tactile refinement. Track-inspired Recaro sport seats available in eye-catching colors hug occupants during dynamic driving. Aluminum and chrome pedal covers add jewel-like metal touches.

Ambient interior lighting in a variety of hues creates a personalized lounge-like atmosphere. Pony logo puddle lamps project the iconic emblem below open doors. Owners can tailor their GT CS cockpit to precisely match preferences and style.

Comfort and Convenience for Daily Functionality

The Mustang GT California Special may revel in performance, but it also impresses with daily-use comfort and convenience. Supportive power-adjustable front seats strike an excellent balance between snug lateral grip and long-haul comfort. Clear analogue gauges and an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen keep drivers informed.

Dual-zone automatic climate control maintains personalized comfort for passengers. Heated and ventilated front seats extend top-down driving weather. A 12-speaker B&O Sound System provides crisp high-fidelity audio. Active noise cancellation and sound-deadening materials reduce unwanted road noise.

Abundant small item storage throughout the cockpit keeps devices and sundries organized. Keyless entry and push-button start simplify accessing and firing up this Mustang. Careful sound insulation provides a peaceful cabin at highway speeds. The GT CS doubles as an polished grand tourer.

Stand Out Through Extensive Customization Options

The Mustang GT California Special offers great personalization potential through Ford’s wide range of factory custom options. Owners can truly create a one-of-a-kind Mustang tailored specifically to their desires.

Exterior customization choices include painted racing stripes, accent decals, painted brake calipers, unique badging, rear spoilers, and customizable wheels. Special interior features like doorsill plates, illuminated door sill scuff plates, color accent packages and premium audio let you craft an individualized cockpit environment.

For performance customization, handling packages dial in dynamics while cat-back exhausts enhance sound. Custom tailored cars carry more pride through expressing the owner’s passion and identity in every unique detail. The possibilities for customization are nearly endless.

Performance Stacked Up Against Mustang Rivals

The updated 2024 Mustang GT California Special asserts its presence among muscle car peers with 450 eager horsepower from its free-revving 5.0L V8. This output equals chief rival Chevrolet Camaro SS while outpunching the Dodge Challenger R/T by 45 horses. Available power pack options push the Mustang ahead of Chevy.

Precise, communicative steering gives the new GT CS a handling advantage over the Challenger and Camaro. An advanced chassis tuned for carving corkscrew roads bests the competition’s plush cruising suspensions. Large  Brembo brakes outperform the Chrysler and Chevy rivals with stronger, fade-free stops from speed.

In factory form, the GT CS nearly matches its traditional adversaries for straight-line speed with 4.3 second 0-60mph acceleration. Performance package upgrades secure the quickest sprint times in this battle of American icons. The 2024 Mustang earns its place among the muscle car elite.

Suspension and Steering Give the Edge Through Corners

While rival muscle cars rely on engine power, the Mustang GT California Special adds sharp handling and steering precision as key strengths. Advanced chassis tuning makes the updated GT CS feel nimbler and more responsive than its muscle car sparring partners.

Front suspension upgrades like heavier-duty springs and larger stabilizer bars keep body roll tidily in check while retaining compliance. The precisely calibrated electric power steering provides excellent feel and accuracy. A Torsen limited-slip rear axle further aids putting power down in corners.

In contrast, the softly sprung Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger understeer and lean more heavily in curves. Their steering lacks the quickness and feedback that makes the Mustang such an intuitive backroad companion. Tuned for the twisties, the new GT CS out-handles the competition.

Retro-Flavored Design with Modern Flair

The 2024 Ford Mustang California Special reveals a masterful exterior design approach blending heritage styling cues with contemporary details. Side scoops, unique rear badging and hood stripes pay homage to 1960s California Special models in a thoughtful modern interpretation.

In contrast, rivals Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger take a more heavy-handed approach to retro themes. Exaggerated shapes and gratuitous chrome and body cladding give these cars a costume-like artificiality. Attempts at modernization come across forced and disjointed.

The Mustang GT CS exhibits honest historic lineage and earnest sporting character through its subtly shaped surfaces. Handling-enhancing details like the front splitter and rear wing blend organically. This masterclass in thoughtful cohesive design shows up the competitors.

Premium Interior Exceeds Muscle Rivals

Inside, the new Mustang GT California Special also outpaces key muscle car competitors with greater material quality, smart ergonomics and advanced technology integration. Richly trimmed models with aluminum and chrome touches convey exceptional precision craftsmanship.

The Camaro and Challenger interiors lean hard on bold retro embellishments but fall short on fit, finish and sophistication. Their plasticky switches and sea of indistinct buttons age the driving experience. Instead of nostalgia, the cabins evoke old-fashioned cost cutting.

Conversely, the Mustang’s cockpit design ethos gracefully balances heritage inspiration with contemporary functionality. Premium available leathers and color accent packages add unique personality without sacrificing sophistication. Driver-focused design places key controls intuitively at hand. The GT CS outclasses rivals within and out.

In summary, the new 2024 Ford Mustang GT California Special asserts its standing among today’s premier muscle cars through enhancements to power, handling and style. Ample factory customization options allow tailoring this special edition to owner preferences. With its masterful blend of performance, design and exclusivity, the GT CS secures Mustang's place now and into the future.

Campaign Wall

Join the Conversation

Sign in with your Facebook account or