Fifth Generation Ford Mustang "S197" (2005 to“ 2014)

Fifth Generation Ford Mustang “S197” (2005 to“ 2014)

Overview:
Launched for the 2005 model year, the S197 Mustang (based on the Ford D2C platform) marked a dramatic shift towards retro-futurism, heavily inspired by the iconic 1967-1969 fastback models. This generation brought back classic Mustang styling cues combined with modern engineering. It featured significantly improved interior quality, a new platform (though still retaining a solid rear axle for the GT/V6), and eventually saw the return of the legendary 5.0L V8 (in a new “Coyote” form) and major performance increases, particularly with the Shelby GT500 models.

Key Differences from Fourth Generation (SN95/New Edge):

• Platform: All-new D2C platform, significantly stiffer and larger than the Fox-4/SN95. While still using MacPherson struts up front and a solid rear axle (initially), the suspension geometry (especially the 3-link rear with Panhard bar) was greatly improved.
• Styling: Major shift to retro design inspired by the 1960s Mustangs, abandoning the New Edge look. Much larger physical presence.
• Engines: Base engine became a new 4.0L SOHC V6. GT used an updated 4.6L SOHC 3-Valve Modular V8. Later models introduced the powerful 5.0L DOHC “Coyote” V8 for the GT and a new 3.7L DOHC V6 for the base model. Shelby models used supercharged DOHC V8s.
• Interior: Vastly improved interior design, materials, and ergonomics compared to the SN95. Retro themes continued inside.

Detailed Model Year Changes (Divided into Pre-Facelift ’05-’09 and Facelift ’10-’14):

Phase 1: Retro Returns (2005-2009)

• 2005:

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6 (Deluxe/Premium), GT (Deluxe/Premium).
  • Engines: Base: 4.0L SOHC Cologne V6 (~210 hp). GT: 4.6L SOHC 3-Valve Modular V8 (~300 hp).
  • Features: All-new platform and retro styling. Improved interior quality. Standard 4-wheel disc brakes, ABS, traction control. Optional side airbags. MyColor customizable instrument lighting optional. 5-speed manual (Tremec T-5 for V6, TR-3650 for GT) or 5-speed automatic (5R55S).
  • Styling: Heavily influenced by ’67-’68 Mustangs. Round headlights in trapezoidal housings, forward-canted grille, C-scoop side indent, classic triple taillights. GT featured grille-mounted fog lights, rear spoiler, dual exhaust.

• 2006:

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT. Pony Package introduced for V6. Shelby GT-H (Hertz rental special) introduced.
  • Engines: 4.0L V6, 4.6L 3V V8. Power outputs unchanged.
  • Features: Pony Package for V6 added GT-style suspension, fog lights, ABS/traction control, unique grille with pony emblem, rear spoiler, specific wheels/stripes. Shelby GT-H (black/gold Hertz rental) featured Ford Racing power pack (~325 hp), handling pack, unique appearance items.
  • Styling: Minimal changes. Pony Package adds GT visual cues to V6. GT-H evokes classic Shelby Hertz cars.

• 2007:

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT. Shelby GT500 (Coupe/Convertible) introduced. Shelby GT (based on GT-H, available to public) introduced. California Special (CS) package returns for GT Premium.
  • Engines: 4.0L V6, 4.6L 3V V8 (~300 hp). Shelby GT uses Ford Racing power pack (~319 hp). Shelby GT500 features supercharged 5.4L DOHC V8 (~500 hp).
  • Features: Shelby GT500 developed by SVT, features Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual, Brembo front brakes, unique suspension tuning, massive cooling. Shelby GT offered similar performance upgrades to GT-H in white or black. California Special package included unique front/rear fascias, side scoops, stripes, interior trim. Optional heated seats, DVD navigation system.
  • Styling: GT500 has aggressive unique front fascia, heat extractor hood, specific spoiler, Cobra emblems, Le Mans stripes. Shelby GT similar to GT-H. CS package adds visual flair.

• 2008:

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT, Shelby GT, Shelby GT500. Bullitt special edition returns (Coupe only). Shelby GT500KR (“King of the Road”) introduced (limited edition Coupe).
  • Engines: 4.0L V6, 4.6L 3V V8 (~300 hp). Shelby GT (~319 hp). Bullitt uses tuned 4.6L 3V V8 (~315 hp) with Ford Racing power pack/exhaust. Shelby GT500 (~500 hp). GT500KR uses tuned supercharged 5.4L DOHC V8 (~540 hp).
  • Features: Bullitt featured unique Dark Highland Green paint (black optional), grille delete, spoiler delete, specific interior trim/gauges, tuned suspension/exhaust, strut tower brace. GT500KR featured carbon fiber hood with scoops, unique wheels, specific suspension tuning, short-throw shifter, Ford Racing exhaust. HID headlights become optional on GT/Shelby GT. Ambient lighting optional.
  • Styling: Bullitt has clean, retro look. GT500KR adds aggressive carbon fiber elements.

• 2009:

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT, Shelby GT500. Shelby GT and Bullitt discontinued. 45th Anniversary badges. Glass roof option introduced.
  • Engines: 4.0L V6, 4.6L 3V V8, Supercharged 5.4L DOHC V8 (GT500). Power outputs unchanged.
  • Features: Glass roof option provides open-air feel with structural rigidity. Minor equipment shuffling. Last year for the initial S197 styling.
  • Styling: 45th Anniversary badges on fenders. Otherwise minimal changes.

Phase 2: Refresh and Power Boost (2010-2014)

• 2010 (Major Facelift):

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT, Shelby GT500.
  • Engines: Engine lineup initially carried over: 4.0L V6 (~210 hp), 4.6L 3V V8 (~315 hp – slight bump from exhaust/tune). Shelby GT500’s supercharged 5.4L DOHC V8 power increased (~540 hp) using GT500KR tech, now with aluminum block.
  • Features: Revised suspension tuning for improved handling. AdvanceTrac electronic stability control standard. SYNC infotainment system available. Capless fuel filler. Sequential taillights standard.
  • Styling: Exterior significantly updated with a more aggressive, sleeker look while retaining retro cues. New front/rear fascias, headlights, taillights (sequential), hood bulge (“power dome”). Interior materials and design refined. GT500 gets unique front fascia and hood.

• 2011 (Major Engine Upgrade):

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT, Shelby GT500.
  • Engines: All-new engine lineup (except GT500): Base model receives 3.7L DOHC “Duratec” V6 (~305 hp – huge increase!). GT receives the legendary 5.0L DOHC “Coyote” V8 (~412 hp). Shelby GT500’s supercharged 5.4L DOHC V8 continues (~550 hp – slight bump).
  • Features: Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) introduced. New 6-speed manual (Getrag MT82) and 6-speed automatic (6R80) transmissions for V6/GT. Brembo brake package optional for GT. Selectable steering effort.
  • Styling: “5.0” fender badges return on GT. Otherwise similar to 2010.

• 2012:

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT, Shelby GT500. Boss 302 returns (limited edition Coupe), including track-focused Laguna Seca variant.
  • Engines: 3.7L V6 (~305 hp). 5.0L Coyote V8 (~412 hp). Boss 302 uses tuned 5.0L “Road Runner” Coyote V8 (~444 hp) with revised intake (“runners in the box”), forged internals, CNC ported heads, unique cams. Shelby GT500 (~550 hp).
  • Features: Boss 302 focused on track performance: adjustable suspension, Brembo brakes, unique side/rear-exit quad exhaust, Torsen differential (standard on Laguna Seca), Recaro seats optional (standard on Laguna Seca, which also had rear seat delete, chassis bracing). Selectable steering modes refined.
  • Styling: Boss 302 features unique stripes (C-stripe or hood/roof), front splitter, rear spoiler, specific wheels. Laguna Seca adds red accents, larger splitter/spoiler.

• 2013 (Second Facelift & GT500 Power Leap):

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT, Boss 302, Shelby GT500.
  • Engines: 3.7L V6 (~305 hp). 5.0L Coyote V8 (~420 hp – slight bump). Boss 302 (~444 hp). Shelby GT500 receives new 5.8L DOHC Supercharged “Trinity” V8 (~662 hp, 631 lb-ft torque!) – claimed 200+ mph top speed.
  • Features: GT receives optional Track Pack (engine cooler, radiator upgrade, Brembo brakes, Torsen diff). Optional Recaro seats for GT/Boss. 4.2-inch LCD productivity screen in instrument cluster available. Track Apps performance metrics available. GT500 gets larger Brembo brakes, carbon fiber driveshaft, launch control, upgraded cooling, optional Performance Package (Bilstein adjustable dampers, Torsen diff) and Track Package (adds external oil/trans/diff coolers).
  • Styling: Revised front fascia with more prominent grille, standard HID headlights with LED accents, new heat-extractor hood for GT. Rear fascia updated with gloss black panel between LED taillights. Boss 302 gets new reflective “hockey stick” stripes. GT500 gets unique, more aggressive front end (larger grille opening, no fog lights) to handle cooling needs.

• 2014 (Final Year for S197):

  • Models: Coupe, Convertible. V6, GT, Shelby GT500. Boss 302 discontinued.
  • Engines: Lineup carries over from 2013: 3.7L V6, 5.0L Coyote V8, 5.8L Supercharged V8 (GT500).
  • Features: Minor equipment changes. Appearance packages like FP6/FP8 offered. Last year for the solid rear axle platform.
  • Styling: Minimal changes. California Special package returns for GT.

Interesting Facts & Packages:

• Retro Revolution: Successfully brought back classic Mustang styling in a modern package, influencing other manufacturers.
• Coyote 5.0L: A modern legend, offering high specific output, great sound, and huge aftermarket potential.
• Boss 302 Revival: A highly regarded track-focused model that paid homage to the original.
• Shelby GT500 “Trinity”: The 662 hp engine made the 2013-2014 GT500 the most powerful production V8 in the world at the time.
• Platform Longevity: While heavily revised, the D2C platform provided a solid base for 10 model years of increasing performance.

Useful Info by Model/Trim (Examples):

• V6: Became a genuine performance bargain from 2011 onwards with the 305 hp 3.7L engine.
• GT: The core V8 model. Transitioned from the capable 4.6L 3V to the excellent 5.0L Coyote. Great all-around performance.
• Shelby GT500: Top-tier performance model, evolving from 500 hp to an astonishing 662 hp.
• Boss 302 (2012-2013): Limited edition, track-focused naturally aspirated V8 model. Highly desirable.
• Bullitt (2008-2009): Retro special edition with subtle styling and performance tweaks.
• California Special (CS): Appearance package adding unique visual elements.

Common Problems & Considerations for Owners:

• 4.6L 3V Spark Plugs: Early (’05-’08) engines had a problematic 2-piece spark plug design prone to breaking during removal. Later revisions fixed this.
• MT82 Transmission Issues (2011+ V6/GT Manual): Some owners reported issues like high-RPM lockout, grinding, or premature failure, though many have been reliable. Shifter upgrades are common.
• Water Leaks: Convertibles can develop leaks around seals. Some coupes experienced water leaks in the passenger footwell due to clogged A/C drains or cowl grommets.
• Interior Rattles/Wear: While improved, some interior plastics can still rattle or show wear over time. Door panel inserts can delaminate.
• Rear Axle Noise: Some solid rear axles can develop gear whine over time.
• Paint Issues: Rock chips on front fascia, some reports of bubbling on aluminum hoods (especially ’10+).
• GT500 Clutch Issues (Early 5.4L): Some early (’07-’09) GT500s experienced clutch durability issues, often upgraded by owners.

Engine & Power Stats (SAE Net HP – Selected Examples):

• 4.0L SOHC V6: ~210 hp (’05-’10)
• 3.7L DOHC V6: ~305 hp (’11-’14)
• 4.6L SOHC 3V V8 (GT): ~300 hp (’05-’09) -> ~315 hp (’10)
• 5.0L DOHC Coyote V8 (GT): ~412 hp (’11-’12) -> ~420 hp (’13-’14)
• 5.0L DOHC Coyote V8 (Boss 302): ~444 hp (’12-’13)
• 5.4L DOHC Supercharged V8 (GT500): ~500 hp (’07-’09) -> ~540 hp (’10) -> ~550 hp (’11-’12)
• 5.8L DOHC Supercharged V8 (GT500 “Trinity”): ~662 hp (’13-’14)

Transmission Options:

• 5-speed Manual (Tremec T-5 for V6 ’05-’10, TR-3650 for GT ’05-’10)
• 6-speed Manual (Tremec TR-6060 for GT500/Boss 302, Getrag MT82 for V6/GT ’11-’14)
• 5-speed Automatic (5R55S ’05-’10)
• 6-speed Automatic (6R80 ’11-’14)

Helpful Info/Resources:

• S197 specific forums (e.g., S197Forum, AllFordMustangs, StangNet)
• Strong aftermarket support (American Muscle, Late Model Restoration, CJ Pony Parts, Steeda, BMR Suspension)
• Specialty tuners for Coyote and Shelby models.

Call to Action Idea:
“From the retro revolution of 2005 to the raw power of the final GT500s, the S197 Mustang defined a generation. Keep your modern classic performing its best with our comprehensive Workshop Manuals.