LA Preview: More Powerful Engines Expected When 2011 Ford Mustang Models Debut in Los Angeles

Rather than the more traditional venue of Detroit, the Ford Motor Company will use the LA Auto Show to debut its new lineup of 2011 Mustang models. Just last year the car was significantly revised with a modernized exterior and a significantly improved interior that is now well beyond what the competition is offering. There’s only one problem, with just mild updates to the engine, both the V6 and V8 are lagging well behind in the horsepower war.

Ford is expected to rectify the situation with the 2011 models, with reports indicating that a new V6 could offer up as much as 300-hp, while a new V8 could deliver 400-hp – with a displacement of 5.0-liters, no less! Expect news of six-speed transmissions as well. The other rumor is that the GT500 will get an aluminum block, helping it shed pounds and improve the car’s overall balance.

Ford won’t confirm or deny these reports but Ford’s global product boss Derrick Kuzak did tell the folks at Autoblog that all questions would be answered at the LA Auto Show in December. Also, when asked about the aluminum-block GT500, Kuzak said, “That’s a good thought.”

The engine updates are much needed for the Mustang to put it back on top. The car has suffered significantly in sales in 2009, being beaten out by the Camaro for three straight months. While the Mustang is quite capable, even with the less powerful engine, horsepower numbers sell cars. And if the Mustang can offer everything it has now, plus more power and (presumably with a six-speed transmission), better fuel economy, then there’s no reason to buy anything else.

AutoGuide’s live coverage of the LA Auto Show starts December 2nd.