2012 Mustang Boss 302: Newest Model Gets Back To Track Roots

2012 Ford Mustang BOSS 302

The Boss name, as it relates to the Mustang, has a strong 41-year history that goes back to a championship SCCA racing steed. So whenever there is a resurgence of the name it is normal for enthusiasts (especially of the racing variety) to compare it to the vehicles hay day when it was produced from 1969 to 1970. In most cases, if you have seen a “Boss” Mustang after 1970 it was just a cosmetic package to play off the nostalgia of the original performance changing cars. What side of the fence does the new one come down on? Our partners over at TheCarConnection.com recently took one out on the Laguna Seca road course out in California and they had a lot to say.

2012 Ford Mustang BOSS 302

The first thing people want to know is if the new Boss 302 is a cosmetic deal or a supped-up Mustang GT. The answer is neither. In true Boss 302 style, Ford has reengineered the motor, transmission and suspension to create one of the best track-ready vehicles to come out of the Ford Mustang stable in years—if not ever. The 5.0 engine under the hood has been modified with strategic modifications to optimize engine breathing and return a healthy increase in power—a figure that is now up to 444 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque. If that doesn’t get your heart pumping, then maybe a 7400-rpm redline and tuned ratio six-speed manual will do the trick. For the track enthusiast, upgrades like the thicker anti-roll bars, lowered suspension and adjustable front shocks (five screwdriver-ready settings) will undoubtedly perk you interest.

There is something else about the all-new 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 that makes it a charmer—TracKey. What is the problem with having a 400+ hp car? Generally, the day-to-day liveability, a problem that arises even for the most intense enthusiast. In true revamped Ford fashion they have blended technology with performance in the new TracKey feature. In short it a $302 option that changes the car from a more than capable road machine to a road track champion. The “red” key changes settings like the stability control, engine management and steering attributes. The TracKey is also considered an accessory, so as Marty Padgett says from TCC.com, “which means the Boss skirts around nosy EPA types while it does its Jekyll-and-Hyde act for its lucky owners.”

Bottom line—the 2012 Mustang Boss 302 lives up to the legendary history while adding today’s technological spin to allow enjoyment day-in and day-out.

Be sure to check out Marty’s coverage including the in car lap camera from Laguna Seca.

[Source: TheCarConnection.com]