In our January issue, contributor Tom Shaw gushed over Roush Performance’s new 427R with the 5-speed automatic transmission, saying “Don’t be surprised if the 427R stands as one of Roush’s all-time greats.”
After spending a weekend with silver-on-blue version, we’d have to agree.
While most performance enthusiasts prefer to shift for themselves, the 427R automatic might change some minds, especially for drivers who have to deal with everyday traffic. With 445 horsepower from the supercharged 4.6-liter engine, the thrill comes from simply jabbing the accelerator pedal and letting the transmission do all the work. Shifts are crisp and clean, and you’d better be ready for some rear tire slippage on the second-gear shift, just like the old Cobra Jets with the C6 automatic. For even more fun, you can shift yourself, at least from first to second to third; with the whine of Roush’s roots-style supercharger, you’ll think you’re in John Force’s Mustang funny car.
Much of our driving was on the Interstate, where the 427R shined when charging around slow-moving trucks. We didn’t have a chance to run the 427R down the quarter-mile, but we can believe the 12.91/107.43 time that Tom Shaw got from his 427R automatic in a Michigan drag-test.
We also liked the ride characteristics: the 427R offers excellent handling without rattling your teeth. And we loved the blue seat inserts in the otherwise all-black leather interior.
Our only “old-guy” complaint was the interior exhaust roar. At certain engine speeds, the exhaust note resonated throughout the cabin, making conversation or music enjoyment nearly impossible. We have to wonder if Ford’s factory GT exhaust, which is amazingly efficient and sounds pretty good to begin with, wouldn’t be a better choice. But maybe we’re showing our age.
Bottom line: The Roush 427R is loads of fun. And, like Tom Shaw said, you never have to worry about missing a shift.