Your Mustang can take many shapes thanks to the likes of Roush, Shelby and Saleen, but if all that is not enough for you, you can also try the Mustang RTR that Vaughn Gittin Jr. has created for true Ford enthusiasts. The RTR is basically a cheaper version of the awesome RTR-C that was unveiled in 2009 at the SEMA Show. While the latter would set you back a six-figure sum, the RTR has a manufacturer recommended retail price of about $44,500.
The customization package includes a new front chin spoiler and splitter, a new rear diffuser, an aluminum rear spoiler and new side splitters. Completing the tastefully redone exterior are the 19 x 9.5-inch pin-spoke wheels with a cool dark charcoal finish.
Inside the car there aren’t any significant changes to woe the buyer, just a few reminders that this is no longer a stock Ford Mustang, but an alluring tuned version of it: some RTR logos on the floor mats, power outlet cover and gauges, plus a Gittin signature on the plaque with the car’s serial number. As a last touch for the interior, the shifter knob was replaced with a new black ball.
In order too keep the price low, the tuners didn’t do too much under the hood either. The airbox received a K&N air filter, and the engineers squeezed just 16 more hp and 7 extra lb-ft of torque from the engine. Gittin explains that “Making it affordable was absolutely the intention”. He then added that every customer can choose to further customize the car according to his or her preferences and budget.
In order to improve the driving experience, Gittin’s team added a set of FRPP shocks and struts, plus lowering springs and sway bars (front and rear). Upgraded front brake rotors and Falken FK452 tires are also part of the deal. Some who have test driven the Mustang RTR however, complained about the rather stiff driving, which did not really have a good impact on the handling. Other than that however, this is a great pony car for the average sports car buyer, with a 400+ hp 5.0-liter V8 engine and a great new look.
