2008 Ford Mustang GT / California Special

2008 Mustang GT California Special

The classically styled GT/CS "California Special" package which had returned to the Mustang lineup in 2007 was given another go-around for 2008. Mechanically, the '08 model was identical to previous year. The only noteworthy change came in the exterior paint color palette, with Dark Candy Apple Red replacing Redfire Metallic.

The GT/CS package offered a number of styling enhancements for the retro-styled fifth-generation Mustang. It included a unique front fascia with a billet-style grille and a revised chin spoiler, which was 1.5 inches lower than the standard Mustang GT's. Out back there was a special diffuser-style rear fascia and bright, rolled dual exhaust tips. Down the flanks was a pair of non-functional quarter scoops, along with classic GT/CS tape-striping. Even the interior saw upgrades, with California Special nomenclature on the bucket seats, as well as the floor mats.  

Engine
Type: 90-degree SOHC 24-valve V-8
Displacement: 4.6L / 281 CID
Horsepower: 300 hp @ 5,750 RPM
Torque: 320 lbs.-ft. @ 4,500 RPM
Bore x Stroke: 90.2mm x 90mm
Compression: 9.8:1

Suspension
Front: Reverse-L Independent MacPherson Strut, 34-mm Stabilizer bar
Rear: 3-link solid axle with coil springs, panard rod, 20-mm stabilizer bar

Brakes
Front: 12.4 in. vented disc, dual-piston caliper
Rear: 11.8 in. vented disc, single-piston caliper
ABS: Four-channel ABS system, linked to all-speed traction control

Wheels
Wheels: 18 x 8 in., 5-spoke, polished aluminum
Tires: 235/50ZR18 BSW High-Performance

Performance
0 to 60 mph: 5.1 seconds (Car and Driver)
60 to 0 braking: 130 feet (Est.)
1/4-mile @ MPH: 13.8 seconds @ 103 mph (Car & Driver)

Production
Total Produced: 7,427
Total Coupe Produced: 4,918
 - Ebony Clearcoat: 1,395
 - Dark Candy Apple Red - 1,278
 - Performance White: 1,273
 - Vista Blue: 719
 - Grabber Orange: 253
Total Convertible Produced: 2,509
 - Ebony Clearcoat: 718
 - Performance White: 703
 - Dark Candy Apple Red: 700
 - Vista Blue: 275
 - Grabber Orange: 113