The 2009 Ford Mustang GT isn’t a revolutionary car, but that doesn’t stop it from being great. Many contemporary cars overwhelm drivers with technological innovations. The 45th anniversary model Mustang GT is more old school, relying on a proven formula of front-mounted engine and rear-wheel-drive. Ford has refined this combo so it works very well and is cost effective.

Even though the 2009 Mustang GT marks the 45th anniversary it isn’t getting the attention it should, because Ford is already pushing the new 2010 Mustang. This shortened sales period might make loaded GTs more collectible in the future.

For the present the 2009 Mustang GT is a fun, affordable muscle car. It has the look and feel of a classic Mustang, but on a greatly perfected level. Raw energy is always on tap although the GT is a pretty docile daily driver.

Walkaround: The Mustang GT is a handsome car. It blends old and new styling elements seamlessly. It’s immediately recognizable as a Mustang. Our test GT had subtle 45th anniversary badges. It was Torch Red .

A new exterior/interior feature that we liked a lot was the optional glass roof. It’s a fixed roof that makes the otherwise dark interior much brighter. The full-length roof has solar, acoustic and reflective characteristics plus a sliding shade.

Interior: Mustangs are affordable performance cars and it appears that the interior was a source of savings. It looks nice and has several retro cues such as the deeply tunneled gauge pods, but there’s too much hard plastic. The trunk carpet is cheap and ill fitting. The sun visors, door bins, glove box, console bin and cup holders are all on the small side. The back seat is so small and difficult to access that it’s more like two cargo nooks with seat belts.

Front legroom is excellent. Seats are comfortable and supportive. In a typical cost cutting move, only the driver’s seat has power lumbar and the heated seats are either on or off.

Under The Hood: Power for the Mustang GT comes from a 4.6L single overhead cam V-8 that’s rated at 300 hp with an impressive 320 lb-ft of torque. This is an American V-8 at its best. The exhaust is muscular under acceleration, but not unpleasant at cruising speeds.

Two 5-speed transmissions are offered, an automatic and a manual. We drove the manual, which was mated to a smooth clutch and shifter. Fuel economy is mediocre. EPA ratings are 15/23, but we couldn’t make it to the twenties.

Behind The Wheel: The 2009 Mustang GT is fun to drive. It feels immediately familiar. Handling is impressive and the ride isn’t overly stiff. The brakes are first rate. It reminds us of an idealized sixties Mustang.

Whines: A 6-speed manual transmission would make the car more enjoyable. A 6-speed is available on the much more expensive Shelby GT500.

Bottom Line: If you long for the glory days of American muscle cars, but would like more sophistication, improved safety, better fuel economy, and more luxurious interiors the Mustang GT is the car for you.