Not really the same price range. An FR-S is just under 25k, and the base 5.0 is just under 30k.

Handling in the 5.0 is great, especially considering the platform. That's measured track time, an objective fact, but I haven't heard a person say it "handles" as well as an M3, IOW chassis balance, poise, etc. It gets the job done, but is not as "elegant" in how it goes about it.

That's a Pro driver comparing to the GT Premium Package, not a base.

According to True Car, the FR-S is going for MSRP and the Mustang going for substantially less with current icentives. So you're right comparing retail, but in the market, they're basically identical right now.

FR-S Auto: Market Average $26,522
Mustang 5.0 Base: Market Average $26,221 (with $3,500 incentive expiring in July)

If that's the case, I'd buy the 5.0.

It's the case until July 2. :) For that matter the V6 is pretty awesome for even less. A Mustang simply isn't novel and doesn't come with any "wow" factor. It's *just* a really well thought out value oriented car that nails its market.

Doesn't your aunt have one? If so, how does she like it?

Funny you mention true car, I work there. If you want to use this link instead it will send you in as a friend or family if you decide to use the service. http://driveyourdream.zag.com/main.h...id=EMPPCZARNOT if you have any questions,let me know.

http://www.fastestlaps.com/laptimes/4fc4febf2d80f.html

Hmmmm

What's your point? You compared "handling" which involves a substantial amount of difficult to capture/subjective criteria, to an M3. I reported what a race driver had to say about the handling of an M3 vs. GT Premium Pack.

My point wasnt comparing the M3 to the mustang, it was comparing the FR-S to the mustang. I mentioned the M3 as an example of its handling, nothing more. FTR I have driven the M3 and it rides nicer then the mustang but it feels much like it when being pushed. I suppose anything rides great compared to my bmx bike i'm currently driving.

:confused:

Ok. But according to one pro driver at least, isn't really comparable. Track times and "handling" are not the same thing.

It's absolutely defensible to say at this time you can get a base 5.0 for the same price as an FR-S and it will manhandle the FR-S in every objective performance criteria. Whether it handles better or not, I don't know. My hypothesis is if I could drive both on a track I would expect the FR-S to be more "controlled and controllable." Doesn't mean anything other than my personal expectation.

I'd be curious what Probst has to say about the FR-S.