The original Ford Mustang Bullitt launched in 2001.
In today’s episode of “Is It Faster Than a Hot Hatch?”, it’s a Ford vs. Ford duel as the Mustang Bullitt takes on the Fiesta ST. Named after the 1968 film starring Steve McQueen, the original Ford Mustang Bullitt launched in 2001. A second version, based on the fifth generation Mustang GT, emerged in 2008. A third version is planned for 2019. Here, however, is genesis, as Mustang Bullitt number 101 takes to the track. Will it conquer the returning contender, our long-term Ford Fiesta…ST? There’s only one way to find out!
[Photo: TFLcar]By now, you may be familiar with our Ford Fiesta ST. It packs a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with 197 horsepower and 202 lb-ft of torque. Particularly at altitude, that turbocharger makes up for some of the lost power, so it may just have the edge on the track. Its lighter curb weight – at least when its not loaded down with four burly guys – should also work in the Fiesta’s favor.
The original Ford Mustang Bullitt, launched in 2001. [Photo: Ford]In the other corner, we have the 2001 Ford Mustang Bullitt. It’s based on the fourth-generation Ford GT, with some upgrades over the standard model. Ford lowered the Bullitt’s suspension by about three-quarters of an inch, upgraded shocks and brakes from the SVT Cobra. Thanks to an upgraded exhaust and re-designed intake, the 2001 Ford Mustang Bullitt pushed out 265 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque from its naturally-aspirated 4.6-liter V8. While the Bullitt has a power advantage on the Fiesta, it is also heavier to the tune of about 500 pounds.
How will the Mustang Bullitt perform in a fully-loaded drag race, and how will it perform on the track? Check out the video above to see the results!
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