It sounds rather improbable that the new Ford Mustang could actually notch monthly sales that topped the sports car segment in Germany, the global epicenter of sports car savvy, refinement and chauvinism.
That's what happened in March, with 780 units for Mustang versus 752 for the venerable 911. Oh, and Mustang also beat the Audi TT as well as a few other prestigious sporty models.
The reasons for the unexpected result are simple: Mustang is a prestige automotive name in Europe, long an object of fascination for many consumers. The new model has been vastly improved from a technical standpoint, with refinements that had been lacking in earlier versions, such as independent rear suspension that greatly improves handling.
Naturally, price is also a key factor. Mustang GT with a V8 sells for about $50,000 in Germany (compared with $32,000 in the U.S.). Porsche 911 starts at 96,000 euros or $110,000 for a base model with no options.
April sales from Europe are due imminently. A Ford spokesman said Mustang outsold Porsche 911 again in April on a retail basis -- meaning to individual consumers. But fleet sales of 911s means that the monthly crown goes back to Porsche.
The larger idea, suggested by Mustang sales, is that Ford's European subsidiary is figuring out -- finally, after billions of losses -- how to make money sustainably on the continent. Last week's earnings report from Ford included the fourth straight quarter of profit in Europe. Ford's overall results were impressive, though mostly because of North American operations.
Mark Fields, Ford chief executive, and Jim Farley, who heads Europe, are pleased with the turnaround. But they're expecting even better results ahead.
