18 GT (Non-PP) Test Drive Today

[AGM2018]

I test drove an 18 GT (auto, non PP) today...I was VERY IMPRESSED. Compared to the 15-17 model years, the car's base suspension "feels" stiffer and firmer, as well as eliminating (for the most part) the "floaty" suspension characteristics of the 15-17 model years. The dealership has an automatic 18 GT with PP (which had yet to go through inspection) which I will drive on Monday for comparison.

Unless I discern a distinct handling difference (perceptibly tighter suspension and handling) on the PP, the base suspension will suffice for my daily driving requirements, as I will never track the car, auto cross it in any way nor will I race it in any manner (1/4 mile track or road race). I had read that Ford upgraded the suspension on the base GT with new shocks (maybe other parts too? I can't remember)...now I believe it. In my opinion...and on my ole' "Butt-Meter", it drives perceptibly better than its 15-17 non PP counterpart.

The last observation to point out is that the car, again in my opinion and according to the ole "Butt-Meter", has much better "grunt and pick-up" down low, than did/does its 15-17 non PP counterpart. While we all know the 18 GT is a "Heavy Girl" at 3800ish pounds stock, I didn't "feel" the weight, interfering with the car's driving dynamics. Low in the RPM range (1K - 3K) the engine provides plenty of low-end "grunt"...I even looked down several times on my 15 minute test drive to have a look at the RPM's. And when the "Fast Pedal" is mashed...this newly revised engine makes an awesome sound through the exhaust (this model only had the standard exhaust but it sounded GREAT under throttle!) and is in two words...SCARY QUICK! I was "cruising" at 60...mashed the "Fast Pedal" and jumped to 90 in what seemed like the bat of an eye...and the tach was spinning a "lazy" 3900-4000 RPM's. :ford:

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[UAmach1]

I'm looking forward to one myself. Just waiting for PP2 reviews and possible Bullitt announcement.

I already know that two of the first things I'm going to do is remove that ugly engine cover and a backseat delete.

 

[JohnD]

I have a '16 PP base. I don't know where all this "floaty" stuff comes from. My car has zero "float", it feels firm and well controlled if a little harsh on crappy roads. And on the track I find it to be well balanced, it does very well for a road car.

 

[BmacIL]

I have a '16 PP base. I don't know where all this "floaty" stuff comes from. My car has zero "float", it feels firm and well controlled if a little harsh on crappy roads. And on the track I find it to be well balanced, it does very well for a road car.

The '18 non-PP car has roughly the same dampers and springs as the 15-17 GT PP. The base 15-17 cars are very soft and sloppy. The GT PP is a much sharper car, but without significant harshness.

 

[ForYourOwnGood]

The '18 non-PP car has roughly the same dampers and springs as the 15-17 GT PP. The base 15-17 cars are very soft and sloppy. The GT PP is a much sharper car, but without significant harshness.

Can confirm. Base car feels like the Nimitz class wallowing down the road.

 

[AGM2018]

I have a '16 PP base. I don't know where all this "floaty" stuff comes from. My car has zero "float", it feels firm and well controlled if a little harsh on crappy roads. And on the track I find it to be well balanced, it does very well for a road car.

John,

I was referring to the 15-17 NON PP cars...NOT the PP cars. The 15-17 PP cars, regardless of trim level, handle/ed well, due to the PP components. However, the base...i.e. NON PP equipped base cars from 15-17...were "floaty", "squishy" and didn't "feel connected" to the road at all. I have driven all three years (15, 16 and 17) base models...and all exhibited these characteristics.

 

[Kevin08]

Good news, might not have to rush into getting Koni’s and BMR springs then.

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