Four-Door Mustang?

Somewhere Lee Iacocca and Carroll Shelby must be fuming. Today the Ford Motor Company introduced a new concept car within its venerable Mustang line. While the new mockups are striking (the new designs depict a muscle car possessing a delightfully aggressive stance and potent haunches), there's also one problem: four doors.

As a former 302 cubic-inch, V-8, Boss Mustang owner, I feel qualified to state the Mustang's heritage is being tainted. Just as storied Jeep Wrangler models are, too, now available in four-door models, the Mustang is apparently the next historic American vehicle to sacrifice substance for the sake of marketability. The Mustang, of course, fueled passionate sales and created a tidal wave of demand when it was introduced as a sporty two-door all the way back in 1964 (24 years after the first two-door Jeep, if anyone's counting).

Ultimately it's no big deal, especially if the new four-door model helps reinvigorate Ford sales. If Jeep serves as any indication, Ford's in for some smooth sailing. Sales of Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and four-door models have absolutely triggered greater profitability for Jeep.