I took out an auto and manual 05 and a manual 04 for test drives. I was shocked at the difference between the 04 and 05. I thought it would be minimal in terms of seat of the pants feel. Boy was I wrong. That extra 50 horses is a lot more than just a number - the car feels much faster. I was thinking I should buy a used 04 for low $20s, but now I think I have to pony up the extra cash for the 05.

 

I did the same thing a week ago---and I bought an 05, Silver/Black 6-speed Big Difference

 

It was a good idea to test both out! I drive an 04, but I have also had mine for a while now. 8500miles to be exact.

Either way I am sure you will enjoy the car!

 

For the price difference, one can add a lot more than 50hp to the '04 and you'll definetely "feel" it.

I know an '05 can be modded too, but you'll spend a heck of a lot more right now to do it.

 

add an sts turbo kit like i did to my 04

wanna race

 

Well I thought of moding my 04 when I had it but all it took is one test drive in a 05 to know witch car had my number. It was like night and day from first through fouth.I agree the price is higher but 05's can be modded too and I wanted the hood scoops ,dual pipes and better brakes -ect........ all right now with out the hassel. So I am saying the 05 Rocks!!!! (had my 04 for only 1-1/2 mons.)
Happy Stang hunting boys!!!

 

I agree, I love my 05... Sure, I could have got an 04 and dumped a ton of money into mods but there goes 80% of my cars warrenty. At the very least, I have good brakes, a nice hood, better rear bumper (IMO), better drivetrain (rear end / axles / etc are said to be beefier) and a good bit more power. And I agree, when I drove an 04 it was quick but it wasnt nearly as quick as the 05 I drove later.

 

Brent you ran 119 mph with the STS? How much boost? What other modifications? Was that the intercooled kit? That's flying for a heavy car like the GTO. I'm looking to do FI here very soon so your input would be appreciated.

 

And you're gonna mod your '05 too, right?

That won't void any more warranties than you would on an '04!

 

I agree completely....for the 10+k saved......there could be more than enough mods to send an 05' home with its tail between its legs.

 

LOL! The first thing one of friends thought when he looked under the hood of an 04 was "Man, that engine bay was designed for twin turbos."

So how much trouble was the install? Does the STS kit have everything you needed?