Ford D2C platform - Definition and Overview

The D2C (also known as DC2 and S197) is Ford's newest global rear wheel drive automobile platform. It was designed by Ford with Mazda's C1 platform technology and will début in the new 2005 Ford Mustang. The platform basics are a MacPherson strut suspension in front and 3-link solid axle in the rear with a Panhard rod. The Mustang Cobra will have a fully-independent suspension in the rear. Engines include a 4.0 L V6 and Ford's Modular 4.6 L V8.

Contrary to many news reports, this platform is not based on the Ford DEW platform. The Mustang was to have used a "Lite" version of the DEW98, but that plan was scrapped as too expensive. The differences are most noticeable in the suspension: The DEW uses a 4-wheel independent double wishbone suspension. The D2C's high-mounted MacPherson struts and lower wishbones are identical to the front-drive C1, and even in the rear the trailing arm is carried over from the C1.

Vehicles currently using this platform include the following:

• 2005 Ford Mustang

Future models include the following:

• Lincoln LS replacement ("Continental"?)
• Ford Thunderbird (2+2)
• Mercury sports car (automatic transmission/V8 "Cougar" or "Capri")

See also

Current Ford platforms:

• B3 - subcompact FWD (ex: Mazda Mazda2)
• C1 - compact FWD (ex: Mazda Mazda3)
• CD2 - small SUV AWD (ex: Ford Escape)
• CD3 - mid-size FWD/AWD (ex: Mazda Mazda6)
• D2C - sports RWD (ex: Ford Mustang)
• P2/P3 - full-size pickup (ex: Ford F-Series)
• U2/U3 - large SUV (ex: Ford Explorer)
• V2 - minivan (ex: Ford Freestar)
• VN - full-size van (ex: Ford Econoline)
• D3 - full-size FWD/AWD (ex: Volvo S60)
• DEW98 - mid-size RWD (ex: Lincoln LS)
• Panther - full-size RWD (ex: Ford Crown Victoria)
• VH - sports RWD (ex: Aston Martin DB9)