Why I Got a 2020 Ford Mustang GT PP1 S550 Specs
Getting behind the wheel of a powerful V8 car brings a unique driving experience. This vehicle stands out for its strong performance, modern features, and impressive design elements. The performance package enhances both the look and feel, with upgrades like a stylish rear spoiler, quad exhaust tips, and practical side skirts.
Inside, it offers more room and comfort than expected, along with technology that makes every drive smoother and more convenient. Plans for future upgrades will focus on both style and small performance tweaks, giving the car even more presence on the road.
Key Takeaways
- The vehicle offers strong performance and advanced handling.
- Both exterior and interior features provide comfort and visual appeal.
- Future modifications are aimed at improving looks and small details.
Car Features Breakdown
5.0-Liter V8 Details
This model has a 5.0-liter V8 engine. It uses 10 quarts of oil for each oil change. The engine bay includes a brace bar, which is not found on basic versions. The cylinder heads on this engine are large and sturdy.
A table with some engine highlights:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Size | 5.0 liters |
| Oil Capacity | 10 quarts |
| Special Feature | Brace bar in engine |
Power Output and Performance
This car makes 460 horsepower at the crank. It puts down about 427 horsepower at the wheels. Brembo six-piston brakes are used for strong stopping power. The tires are Michelin Pilot Sport 4S, providing good grip.
A simple list for key performance parts:
- 460 HP at the crank
- 427 HP at the wheels
- Brembo 6-piston brakes
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires
Rear-Driven Handling and Ability
This vehicle uses a rear-driven layout, which allows for “donuts” and skilled maneuvers. The combination of rear drive and high horsepower makes for a lively drive. Michelin tires increase grip, making some stunts like burnouts harder but improving control. The car comes with a performance package, adding larger side skirts, a bigger front lip, and a functional spoiler, all of which help with stability.
Note: The base models do not come with these upgrades.
Driving Performance and Maneuvering
Advanced Six-Piston Stopping Power
The car is equipped with advanced six-piston Brembo calipers in the front. These brakes offer strong and steady stopping ability. The solid grip helps control speed during sharp turns and sudden stops.
High-Performance Michelin Tires
It uses Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. These tires provide excellent traction on both dry and wet roads. They give the car a firm grip, making it easier to handle during aggressive driving or quick maneuvers.
| Tire Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| High grip | Better cornering |
| Performance rated | Suitable for fast runs |
Enhanced Driving Kit Details
This model comes with an upgraded driving kit that adds to its handling. Some items include a larger rear spoiler, quad exhausts, and bigger side skirts. Together, these pieces improve stability and help with airflow around the car.
Key kit highlights:
- Large spoiler for increased downforce
- Quad pipes for better exhaust flow
- Side skirts for stronger road presence
Suspension and Lowering Improvements
The suspension has been upgraded with performance springs and spacers. The plan includes dropping the car lower: 30 mm in the front and 25 mm in the rear. Lowering the body helps get better traction and a more planted feel when turning or accelerating.
Outside Appearance Highlights
Streamlined Body Improvements
The vehicle comes equipped with a performance package that adds features to help it cut through the air better. These adjustments make driving feel more stable, especially at higher speeds.
- Improved air flow around the body
- Enhanced stability
Rear Wing and Four-Tip Exhaust
There is a large wing on the back and four separate exhaust tips. Many prefer this look over the single-tip option. The rear wing adds a bold style and the exhaust gives a more balanced appearance.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Wing | Large, not basic model size |
| Exhaust Tips | Four, one in each corner |
Lower Body Trim and Front Splitter
Performance trim pieces along the sides give the car a sportier look. The front splitter is larger than what comes on the non-performance models, sticking out about half an inch more.
- Side trim for a bold look
- Extended front lip for added detail
Working Engine Heat Openings
The model finally features vents that actually let hot air move out from the engine bay. These help reduce heat, improving engine cooling after driving hard.
Key Points:
- Vents allow real airflow
- Helps manage engine heat
Inside Space and Comfort
Roomy Interior Feel
The cabin in this model feels much bigger than expected. There is much more space compared to older models like the 2014 or previous vehicles like an Audi. There’s even enough room that you could lay down and sleep inside.
Choices for Seats and Trims
This car did not come with leather seats because that option was more expensive. Instead, it has cloth seats. The interior looks neat, but the focus was on value and comfort, not paying extra for fancy materials.
Touchscreen, Infotainment, and SYNC 3 Features
The vehicle includes a larger screen, unlike the basic model which has only a small one. It runs SYNC 3, which supports features like touch entry and lets you start the car with a button. The system also works with a phone app called FordPass, allowing remote start, scheduling, and even location tracking. Here’s a quick look at the features:
| Feature | Included |
|---|---|
| SYNC 3 | Yes |
| Keyless Start | Yes |
| Remote Start (App) | Yes |
| Vehicle Tracking | Yes |
10-Speed Auto Gearbox Experience
This car comes with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The decision to skip the manual came from concerns about maintenance and reliability. No clutch replacements or manual transmission issues makes it easier to handle, especially when using the car’s full power. Users can focus on driving without worrying about shifting or second-guessing gear changes.
Tech Features for Everyday Use
Starting the Car from Anywhere
This car comes with a feature that lets the owner start it without even getting inside. There’s a button that can be pressed on the key fob, so the engine can be turned on while still indoors. This makes it simple to warm up the car before leaving, especially on cold mornings.
Quick Facts:
| Feature | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Remote Start Button | Start engine remotely |
| Key Fob Use | No need to enter the car |
Using the Mobile App for Controls
The car connects with a mobile app, letting the owner control several features from their phone. They can lock or unlock the doors and even schedule a time for the car to start each day. This helps to make sure the car is ready to go before driving.
- Lock and unlock from anywhere
- Schedule starts for any day of the week
- Use the app for other controls
Finding the Car Easily
The same app helps track the car’s exact location. If someone else is driving, the owner can see where the car is at any time. This is useful for peace of mind and keeping track of the vehicle.
- See real-time location on a map
- Useful if a family member borrows the car
- Helpful in crowded parking lots
Experience of Owning the Vehicle
Regular Upkeep and Engine Oil Requirements
The 5.0-liter V8 engine in this car needs a lot of oil—about 10 quarts each time an oil change is done. This is double what some other cars use, and it can cost around $90 just for the oil, not including the filter.
Because it uses so much oil, planning ahead for maintenance is smart. The large engine parts, like the heads, mean it’s important to keep up with oil and filter changes. It helps keep everything running smooth and keeps the performance strong.
- Oil Change Cost: ~$90 (oil only)
- Oil Needed: 10 quarts
- Tip: Always use the right oil and change it on schedule for best results.
Comparing Automatic and Manual Transmissions
This model was picked with a 10-speed automatic transmission instead of a manual. While manual cars can be fun, there were some reported problems with things like the shift fork in manuals, so it seemed easier to go with the automatic.
With the automatic, shifting is smoother, and there’s no clutch to replace. Manuals can also be harder to control with higher horsepower, needing more attention to things like clutch servicing. The automatic avoids those extra repairs and can make driving this high-power car simpler.
| Transmission Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic | Reliable, no clutch changes, smoother power | Less driver control |
| Manual | More driver control, sporty feel | Possible mechanical problems, harder maintenance |
Planned Modifications and Builds
Updates to the Exterior
- New Fender and Hood: There are plans to install a GT350R-style carbon fiber fender and a GT500-style carbon fiber hood.
- Front End Changes: A Roush front bumper will be added.
- Aerodynamic Details: Side skirts and a larger front lip will be part of the look.
- Suspension: The car will get upgraded with lowering springs and wheel spacers for a better stance. He is considering 30mm spacers in the front and 25mm in the back.
- Diffuser: A new rear diffuser made from carbon fiber is also on the list.
| Part | Planned Upgrade |
|---|---|
| Fender | GT350R carbon fiber |
| Hood | GT500 carbon fiber |
| Front Bumper | Roush style |
| Springs | Lowering (brand still deciding) |
| Spacers | 30mm (front), 25mm (back) |
| Diffuser | Carbon fiber |
Use of Lightweight Materials
- Carbon Fiber Parts: Plans include adding more carbon fiber parts such as the fender, hood, and diffuser.
- Interior Accents: Some carbon fiber trim is also planned for the interior.
These upgrades are expected to reduce weight and add a sportier appearance.
Upcoming Engine and Exhaust Adjustments
- Possible Intake Upgrade: An aftermarket air intake may be added if he decides to modify the engine.
- Exhaust Changes: Plans include getting an X-pipe and a muffler delete. The installation will use bolt-on parts, with no welding.
- Other Engine Changes: For now, there are no major changes planned to the engine aside from these minor intake and exhaust updates.
All of these modifications are planned with performance and looks in mind, and he will continue to explore more options as the build moves forward.
Final Thoughts
Here are some highlights about the car:
- 5.0-liter V8 engine
- Estimated 460 horsepower at the crank, about 427 at the wheels
- Six-piston Brembo brakes
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for better grip
- Spacious interior with a larger screen
Performance package benefits:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Spoiler | Larger, improved for looks and function |
| Quad exhaust tips | Preferred over single tips |
| Side skirts | Bigger and more noticeable |
| Functional vents | Help with cooling |
| Front brace bar | Only on performance trim |
He chose an automatic 10-speed transmission due to concerns with manual reliability. The car also features Sync 3 and remote start with FordPass, which allows scheduling start times, remote locking, and vehicle tracking.
Planned upgrades include:
- Carbon fiber fender and hood
- Roush front end
- Carbon fiber diffuser and interior accents
- New springs and wheel spacers
No major engine work is planned soon, but some bolt-ons may be added later. The focus will mainly be on appearance and handling, with more performance tests expected down the road.
