THE PRODUCT
The 1974 Mustang program objectives focused on four main goals to improve this car over 1973 Mustangs. The goals were attained mainly by:
| GOAL | ATTAINED BY |
| High perceived value | Increased product content
More attractive price level |
| Sensible size | Small exterior
Efficient interior package |
| Engineering excellence | Ride and handling
Performance/economy
Engineering/workmanship |
| High style | Contemporary design
European "cues" |
The car is much smaller than its 1973 predecessor, even smaller in some dimensions than the original 1965. "All new from road to roof" is the only accurate way to describe the '74 Mustang.
In an October, 1972, speculative article about the car, Competition Press & Autoweek said, "The biggest automotive news in 1974 is going to be the new Mustangs. There'll be Toyotas and Datsuns with Wankels, and all-new big Mercedes...new full-sized Chryslers, Dodges and Plymouths...
"But the Mustang is going to be the mind blower," said Comp Press. "It will not just be a new car, but a new concept - more accurately a return to the old (and much cherished) concept.
"The '74 will... include a new chassis, a new body and a new engine. If that doesn't make it a new car, it would be hard to determine what would," the newspaper concluded.
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