Matching the 200-hp four-cylinder BRZ against the 305-hp V-6 Mustang may not seem to be a fair fight with the Ford one second faster to 60 mph and through the quarter mile at the drag strip. But plenty of enthusiasts looking to spend about $28,000 for a sporty rear-drive coupe want to know which is the better driver’s car.
Out on winding roads, Mackenzie is impressed with the Mustang’s steering, saying it may be the best of any American car ever made and that he is only reminded of the pony car’s live rear axle when hitting a mid-corner bump. The BRZ impresses with its low center of gravity and lighter weight, which contribute to a nimble feel. The smaller, less powerful engine must be kept higher in the rev band to carry speed through the curves.
Both cars are entertaining on canyon roads, but MacKenzie wants to know how much of a difference horsepower makes on a race track. To find out, he hands the keys over to Randy Pobst for some hot laps around Streets of Willow. Pobst likes the BRZ’s balance and linear power delivery. On the other hand the Mustang’s powerful V-6 requires less shifting.
