2001 Ford Mustang GT,Reviews

2001 Ford Mustang GT models get unique hood and side scoops, so that you can tell 'em apart from V6 models. After a one-year hiatus, the Ford SVT Mustang Cobra returns for 2001.

Now 37 years old, the Mustang is quickly approaching middle age. There are four models: the V6 Coupe, the V6 Convertible, the GT Coupe and the GT Convertible. All V6 models have a 3.8-liter pushrod engine that makes 190 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 225 foot-pounds of torque at 2,800 rpm. The Ford SVT Mustang Cobra is a high-performance Mustang that has been heavily modified by Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT). The engine produces 320 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 317 ft-lbs. of torque at 4,750 rpm.

All Mustangs offer drivers and passengers supportive, upright front chairs, well-placed controls, clear views out the front and side windows, and acceptable dashboard and seat materials. For 2001, Ford upgraded the center console by adding a larger rear cupholder and repositioning the front cupholder, power point, tissue holder and parking brake boot. The standard, deluxe and premium trim groups offer varying levels of standard and optional equipment, with the premium trim group being the most inclusive.

The 2001 Ford Mustang GT suspension allows the car to be predictable during hard cornering and side-to-side weight transfers are progressive for added stability during high-speed lane changes. Rough pavement can make the ride uncomfortable in base- and GT-model Mustangs, however, as the rear suspension still uses a solid rear axle.

All-speed traction control and antilock brakes are standard on most trim levels. The Mustang is as popular as ever.

There are four models: the V6 Coupe, the V6 Convertible, the GT Coupe and the GT Convertible. The Ford SVT Mustang Cobra is a high-performance Mustang that has been heavily modified by Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT). All-speed traction control and antilock brakes are standard on most trim levels.

2011 Bentley Continental GT,Reviews

The 2011 Bentley Continental GTcarries over pretty much unchanged.

Introduction It's difficult to argue that the Bentley Continental GT is anything but a solid choice among ultra-luxury convertibles.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Bentley Continental GT is a premium luxury convertible offered in a single, well-appointed trim level.

Standard features include painted 19-inch forged-aluminum wheels, a power-folding soft top, an electronically adjustable air suspension, bi-xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, keyless ignition/entry, a full leather interior with a choice of primary and secondary hides in 17 colors, burl walnut trim, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat controls, 10-way power heated front seats with memory functions and power lumbar, Bluetooth, a navigation system and a 12-speaker stereo with satellite radio and a glovebox-mounted six-CD changer.

Options include carbon-ceramic brakes (only available with the optional 20-inch wheels), a power-opening and -closing trunk, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel, an 1,100-watt 13-speaker Naim sound system with two subwoofers, an iPod interface, massaging front seats, four upgraded interior veneers and a rearview camera. Powering the Bentley Continental GT is a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter engine with its 12 cylinders arranged in the Volkswagen Group's unique "W" formation.

Standard safety features for the 2011 Continental GT include stability control, traction control, front-seat side airbags and antilock disc brakes with brake assist.

Even with the lofty expectations that come with any Bentley, the Continental GT's interior does not disappoint.

Driving Impressions Despite the 2011 Continental GT's portly weight and plus-sized dimensions, it is surprisingly well mannered in terms of performance.