It's considered a "pony car," a class that blurs the lines between sports car and muscle car. It has some sports car characteristics:
* Two doors: A common feature of sports cars.
* Relatively sporty styling: The Mustang's design is aimed at a sporty aesthetic.
* Rear-wheel drive: A common feature in sports cars, contributing to handling characteristics often associated with them.
However, it lacks some elements typically found in more dedicated sports cars:
* The V6 engine is not particularly powerful: Compared to many true sports cars, the V6 lacks the punch and high-revving nature often expected.
* Handling might not be as sharp: While rear-wheel drive aids handling, the overall suspension and chassis tuning might not be as focused on precise handling as dedicated sports cars.
Therefore, a 2001 Ford Mustang V6 is more accurately described as a sports-oriented car or a pony car than a purebred sports car. It offers some of the aesthetics and driving experience of a sports car but compromises in outright performance and handling precision compared to higher-end alternatives.
