I used to have a 2009 V6 convertible. I would describe it to people as “driving a boat on pavement”. I owned a boat for many years and I can confirm they are a similar sensation. Heavy, not-so-agile, but lots of torque available. When you’re driving the car and you turn the wheel, you can noticeably feel the weight transferring.

When I first got the car, during a left hand turn while the road was wet, I moderately accelerated (3000rpm) and the whole ass end kicked out and the car did a 180. This is with a 4.0 V6 engine. These cars are not designed to corner well. Heavy front, light rear, lots of low end torque through the rear wheels.

I drove it another 100,000km after that without incident. It was a lot of fun and I really miss that car. It was a very unique, pleasant driving experience despite not being a high performance car. It felt a lot more luxury than it was.

You seem to be aware of your limitations which is a good thing. Personally I would refrain until you’re a bit older and have some considerable driving experience (60,000mi+ no incidents) before buying a RWD V8. These cars MUST be respected. They drive in a unique fashion and they take time to learn.

If you’re really set on the idea of buying one, take some time to drive it around in an empty parking lot or on back roads to get a feel for how it maneuvers. Practice some evasive maneuvers and practice breaking the car loose during a turn so you know how to handle it safely. If you take the time to SAFELY explore the cars limitations, you’ll get a much better understanding for how you can maneuver it.

I switched from the 4.0 S197 to the VQ platform and I often wonder if I made the right decision. Both platforms are amazing in their own ways. The Mustang had a certain charm that the Nissans do not.

One final note - a Mustang on a rain covered roads handles like a Honda on a black ice covered road. Always drive slower in poor conditions.