Overview

The Mustang returns for 2012 better than ever. After receiving new powerful and fuel-efficient engines last year, Ford has further tweaked the Mustang to make it a true performance powerhouse. New for 2012 is the Mustang Boss 302. Taking its name from legendary Trans Am racers of yore, the Boss 302 features a 444-hp version of the Mustang GT’s 5.0-liter V-8. The Boss also features a track ready final drive ratio, a short-throw six-speed manual transmission, a firmer, adjustable suspension, front Brembo brakes, an optional Torsen differential, and more. For those who want even more performance, Ford also offers the Laguna Seca Package on the Mustang Boss 302 that ditches the Mustang’s rear seats for additional bracing, and stiffens the suspension even more. The rest of the Mustang lineup carries over largely unchanged with choices galore. Buyers can opt for a coupe or a convertible, a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission, and a 305-hp 3.7-liter V-6 producing 280 lb-ft of torque or a 412-hp 5.0-liter V-8 producing 390 lb-ft of torque. Power wasn’t Ford’s only priority when it came to the Mustang. Automatic-equipped Mustang V-6’s receive an EPA-rated 19 mpg city/31 mpg highway, while manual V-8 GT’s are rated at 17 mpg city/26 mpg highway—numbers that put the old Mustang’s engines to shame, especially considering the added power.…

 

Mini Cooper S Convertible

There is a handful of cars that look very different from anything else on the road. They attract attention mostly for their snappy styling. Volkswagen’s New Beetle comes to mind, so does the Chrysler PT Cruiser. The Mini Cooper falls into this trendy category, but unlike the others, it has some serious sport baked in, which is what we’ve always liked about this car, especially the supercharged S model.