It's time to bid farewell to the 2005 Ford Mustang GT Convertible. That is quite a mouthful, we know. The Mustang as been one of the more enjoyable cars I have driven. It has a special blend of characteristics that make it unique.

Classifying the Mustang is a bit of a challenge. For one, there are very few V8 rear wheel drive sport coupes out there, even fewer convertibles, and absolutely none in this price range. Needless to say the Mustang has very few direct competitors. There are, however, a few other sport coupes that are in the same price range. Few have the character or the muscle of the Mustang, honestly. In the US automobile market, the sport coupes out there serve very different tastes. All provide performance, but there is a wide range in the flavors available.

So, the Mustang is unique to say the least. Another item that makes the Mustang a bit difficult to explain, especially to enthusiasts, is the rear suspension. The solid rear axle was a serious topic of discussion when the Mustang was first announced. In truth, there is nothing wrong with it. It works, the ride quality is very good and the rear suspension is tuned to control the axle very well.

If the fact that the Mustang is an American car, with a solid rear axle, and V8 in the front bothers you, then perhaps this isn?t the vehicle for you. It is the quintessential American sports coupe, and in convertible form it is a blast. If you look past the surface and allow yourself to be immersed in the Mustang?s brilliant character, you will find it to be as enjoyable as anything else on the road. And for less cash than you would expect. It is simply fun and a throwback to another era in American automotive history.

So, if I would change anything what would it be? For the convertible, I would just leave it alone. I would like a touch more chassis rigidity, but I tend to favor coupes anyway. For the Mustang line as a whole, I feel that Ford should offer a package that takes the handling to another level without customers having to wait for the 2007 Mustang Cobra. I would want tighter suspension, additional frame stiffening, and a quicker steering ratio. Make it an option, charge for it and enthusiasts will pick it up. Also, Ford needs to paint those mirrors. Most of the time, you ignore the fact that there are these two huge plastic mirrors hanging off your beautifully sculpted coupe. It?s the times that your hands run over the mirrors that you realize how inappropriately cheap they feel. How much does it cost to paint them? I?d pay an extra $100 to have painted mirrors, really.

Other than this, the Mustang is spot on. I am actually very sad to see it go. I found every opportunity that I could to drive this car, and it was always a willing companion. Bravo Ford for recreating the pony car. The Mustang is actually gone now, but when the driver picked it up, a tear came into my eye as I heard the V8 sing. It?s a beautiful thing. Having been a Mustang owner, I can say this car trumps it hands down. I should have waited for the 2005.