Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Mustang California Special. This isn't just another Mustang; it's a tribute to a classic, blending modern performance with retro styling that screams California cool. If you're a Mustang enthusiast or just someone looking for a ride with a bit of history and a lot of character, you've come to the right place. Let's explore what makes the 2017 California Special so special, from its unique design elements to its performance and overall appeal. We will explore its features and what makes it unique. So buckle up and let's dive in!

What Makes the 2017 Mustang California Special Unique?

The 2017 Mustang California Special is more than just a trim package; it's a statement. It's designed to evoke the spirit of the original 1968 California Special, a regional edition created for the California market. This modern iteration carries forward that legacy with distinctive styling cues and exclusive features that set it apart from the standard Mustang GT. One of the most noticeable features is the blacked-out grille, which gives the car a more aggressive and menacing look. This is complemented by the unique lower fascia and fog lights, which enhance the car's sporty appearance. The side stripes, another nod to the original, run along the lower body, adding a touch of retro flair. These stripes aren't just stickers; they're a carefully designed element that accentuates the Mustang's lines and curves. The rear of the car also gets special treatment, with a unique spoiler that adds to the car's aerodynamic profile and visual appeal. The California Special badging is another key differentiator, reminding everyone that this is no ordinary Mustang. These badges are strategically placed on the car's exterior and interior, adding to its exclusivity. Inside, the California Special features unique seats with special stitching and embroidery, further enhancing the car's distinctive character. The attention to detail in the interior is impressive, with high-quality materials and finishes that create a premium feel. All of these elements combine to make the 2017 Mustang California Special a truly unique and desirable car. It's a modern classic that pays homage to its roots while offering all the performance and technology you'd expect from a contemporary Mustang. Whether you're a collector or just someone who appreciates a well-designed car, the California Special is sure to impress.

Design and Styling: A Nod to the Past

The design and styling of the 2017 Mustang California Special is where it truly shines, offering a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and classic Mustang heritage. The car’s exterior is adorned with several unique elements that pay homage to the original 1968 California Special. The most notable is the blacked-out open air grille, replacing the standard chrome version and giving the car a more aggressive and distinctive front end. This design choice immediately sets the California Special apart, hinting at the performance capabilities that lie beneath the hood. Complementing the blacked-out grille are the unique lower front fascia and fog lamps, which not only enhance the car's sporty look but also improve aerodynamics. The fog lamps are strategically positioned to provide optimal visibility in adverse weather conditions, blending form and function seamlessly. Moving along the sides, you'll find the signature California Special side stripes, which run along the lower portion of the doors and rear quarter panels. These stripes are a direct nod to the original California Special and add a touch of retro flair to the car's overall design. The stripes are available in contrasting colors, allowing owners to customize the look to their personal preferences. At the rear, the California Special features a distinctive spoiler that not only enhances the car's aerodynamics but also adds to its visual appeal. The spoiler is designed to complement the car's lines, giving it a more aggressive and sporty stance. Unique California Special badging is strategically placed on the car's exterior, including the front fenders and rear decklid, further emphasizing its exclusivity. These badges serve as a constant reminder that this is no ordinary Mustang, but a special edition with a rich history and unique design. Inside, the California Special continues the theme of blending modern and classic design elements. The seats are upholstered in premium leather with unique stitching and embroidery, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to the interior. The California Special logo is embroidered on the seatbacks, further enhancing the car's exclusivity. Overall, the design and styling of the 2017 Mustang California Special is a masterclass in blending modern aesthetics with classic Mustang heritage. It's a car that looks as good as it performs, with a distinctive exterior and a luxurious interior that are sure to impress even the most discerning Mustang enthusiasts.

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

When it comes to performance and handling, the 2017 Mustang California Special doesn't disappoint. It's built on the Mustang GT platform, which means it packs a serious punch under the hood. The heart of the California Special is Ford's renowned 5.0-liter V8 engine, which delivers a thrilling 435 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. This engine is known for its responsiveness and smooth power delivery, making it a joy to drive in any situation. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tearing up the track, the V8 engine provides plenty of power to satisfy your need for speed. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission, both of which offer precise and engaging shifting. The manual transmission is the choice for purists, providing a direct connection to the engine and allowing for complete control over gear selection. The automatic transmission, on the other hand, offers smooth and effortless shifting, making it a great choice for everyday driving. In terms of handling, the 2017 Mustang California Special is well-balanced and responsive. The car's independent rear suspension provides excellent ride quality and helps to keep the car planted in corners. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good feel for the road and allowing you to confidently navigate twisty roads. The California Special also comes standard with a variety of performance-enhancing features, including upgraded brakes and a sport-tuned suspension. These features help to improve the car's handling and braking performance, making it even more fun to drive. The car's traction control system and stability control system also work together to keep the car under control, even in challenging driving conditions. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2017 Mustang California Special are top-notch. It's a car that's equally comfortable cruising around town or tearing up the track, with plenty of power, responsive handling, and a host of performance-enhancing features. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a beginner, you'll find the California Special to be a rewarding and enjoyable car to drive.

Interior and Technology: Comfort Meets Convenience

Stepping inside the 2017 Mustang California Special, you'll find an interior that seamlessly blends comfort with modern technology. The cabin is designed to provide a premium driving experience, with high-quality materials and thoughtful details throughout. The seats are upholstered in supple leather with unique stitching and embroidery, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to the interior. The seats are also well-bolstered, providing excellent support during spirited driving. The driver's seat is power-adjustable, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. The California Special logo is embroidered on the seatbacks, further enhancing the car's exclusivity. The dashboard and door panels are trimmed in soft-touch materials, giving the interior a premium feel. The layout of the dashboard is clean and intuitive, with all of the controls within easy reach. The center console houses the infotainment system, which features a large touchscreen display. The infotainment system offers a variety of features, including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. It also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the car's system. The car also comes standard with a premium sound system, which delivers crisp and clear audio quality. The sound system includes multiple speakers and a subwoofer, providing an immersive listening experience. In terms of technology, the 2017 Mustang California Special is equipped with a variety of features designed to enhance your driving experience. The car comes standard with a rearview camera, which makes it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. It also features blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you when there's a vehicle in your blind spot. The car also comes standard with adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Other notable features include keyless entry, push-button start, and automatic climate control. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2017 Mustang California Special are top-notch. The cabin is comfortable and luxurious, with high-quality materials and thoughtful details throughout. The infotainment system is easy to use and offers a variety of features, while the car's advanced technology helps to enhance your driving experience.

Collectibility and Value: Is It a Good Investment?

Considering the collectibility and value of the 2017 Mustang California Special is crucial, especially if you're thinking of it as more than just a daily driver. This model holds a unique position in the Mustang lineup, thanks to its blend of modern performance and classic styling cues that pay homage to the original 1968 California Special. Limited production numbers often contribute to a vehicle's collectibility, and while the 2017 California Special wasn't a strictly limited edition, it was produced in smaller quantities compared to the base Mustang GT. This relative scarcity can make it more desirable among collectors. The car's distinctive features, such as the blacked-out grille, unique side stripes, and special interior appointments, further enhance its appeal. These elements set it apart from other Mustangs on the road and make it instantly recognizable as a California Special. Over time, well-maintained examples of the 2017 California Special are likely to appreciate in value, particularly those with low mileage and complete service records. The Mustang has a long and storied history, and special editions like the California Special tend to hold their value well, especially among enthusiasts. However, it's essential to consider factors such as the car's condition, mileage, and originality when assessing its potential value. Modifications can detract from a car's collectibility, so keeping it as close to stock as possible is generally advisable if you're thinking of it as an investment. Market demand also plays a significant role in determining a car's value. The Mustang has a large and passionate following, and there's always a demand for well-preserved examples of special editions like the California Special. Keeping an eye on auction prices and online marketplaces can give you a good sense of the car's current market value. Overall, the 2017 Mustang California Special has the potential to be a good investment, provided it's well-maintained and kept in good condition. Its unique styling, limited production numbers, and strong following all contribute to its collectibility and potential for appreciation. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just someone who appreciates a well-designed car, the California Special is definitely worth considering.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Mustang California Special Right for You?

So, is the 2017 Mustang California Special right for you? After taking a comprehensive look at its design, performance, interior, and collectibility, it's clear that this car offers a unique blend of style, substance, and heritage. If you're a Mustang enthusiast who appreciates classic styling cues and wants a car that stands out from the crowd, the California Special is definitely worth considering. Its distinctive exterior features, such as the blacked-out grille, unique side stripes, and special badging, give it a look that's both sporty and refined. The interior is equally impressive, with premium materials, comfortable seats, and a host of modern technology features. The 5.0-liter V8 engine provides plenty of power for both daily driving and spirited performance, while the car's well-balanced handling makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2017 California Special has the potential to be a good investment, provided it's well-maintained and kept in good condition. Its limited production numbers and unique features make it desirable among collectors, and its value is likely to appreciate over time. However, if you're primarily looking for a practical and fuel-efficient car, the Mustang California Special may not be the best choice. Its focus on performance and styling means that it's not the most economical option on the market. Additionally, its sporty suspension and low ground clearance may not be ideal for rough roads or inclement weather. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2017 Mustang California Special comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you value style, performance, and heritage, and you're willing to pay a premium for a car that stands out from the crowd, the California Special is definitely worth considering. It's a modern classic that's sure to turn heads and provide years of driving enjoyment. However, if you're looking for a more practical and economical car, there may be better options available. Whatever you decide, be sure to do your research and consider all of your options before making a purchase. Happy driving, guys!