DETROIT, MI - Flat out, this car is going to be a smash hit. Taking its design cues from the classic Mustangs of the 1960s, the 2005 Ford Mustang is more powerful, more comfortable and more sophisticated than ever before, and it will be priced under $20,000 when it goes on sale in the fall of 2004.

Two models will be available in two trim levels when the Ford Mustang debuts. The coupe was shown in Detroit at the 2004 North American International Auto Show, in both V6 and GT formats. The convertible will be introduced to the public later in the year, most likely at the New York Auto Show in April.

Standard 2005 Ford Mustangs are equipped with a 202-horsepower, 4.0-liter SOHC V6 making 235 lb.-ft. of torque, driving the rear wheels through a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission. Called the Mustang V6, this model includes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a three-link live rear axle located by a Panhard rod for enhanced stability in bumpy corners. Rack-and-pinion steering guides this 3,300-pound pony car's 16-inch wheels, which are wrapped in 215/65 tires. Four-wheel, vented disc brakes are standard equipment, along with power door locks, keyless entry, one-touch up and down power windows, and a CD player. The Ford Mustang V6 will be the volume model.