What to Look For.. Wanting to return to the world of stangs

[ctupton]

Well it has been a while since I've been here, due to me having to get rid of my 00GT about 3-4 years ago (it was a big target for other cars to smack into)

So anyway, I'm thinking of returning back to the world of mustangs, I've had several life changes since then (added graduated college, wife and 2 kids, moved to DFW area etc...), and well I'm wondering how many people put kids car seats in the back? This won't be the primary fam car, but will occasionally need to carry 2 kiddos in the back. 1 rear facing.

Also more importantly, way back when I had the 00, I know there was a windsor vs romeo engine dispute and certain things to look for when buying a used GT. Well I've been out of the loop for a bit and I need you guy's help. What should I look for, should I stay away from any particular year? how are these holding up in the higher mileage? (I assume pretty good). Thinking 5spd manual just because I miss a stick...

Also of note, how are these compared to the 04 Mach 1's? looks like those are fairly affordable? Just looking for a fun daily driver that I can wrench on for fun (not because I have too) on weekends.

Are there any significant differences between 05,06,07's etc???

Thank you

 

[DarkFireGT]

Performance wise, stock for stock, Mach 1 vs S197 is a drivers race. I've been many mildly modified Mach 1's at the track. I've put our carseat in the back before, rear facing. It does make for a cramped front area, so I'd put it on the passenger side. Pretty much all the years are the same. The shifter was revised a bit for '07 (though if you're going to replace that, it doesn't matter) The earlier models had more slop in them. The '07+ has tire pressure monitors, which adds some cost if you're going to change out the wheels. Good luck.