Showing posts with label Ford Mustang. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ford Mustang. Show all posts
[Via WorldCarFans]
By Michael Gauthier
For more information about the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup or details on how to purchase a Mustang FR500S, please visit www.MustangChallenge.com.
Source: Ford
By Michael Gauthier
Last year we brought you news from the SEMA show that Ford was preparing to launch a new budget Mustang racer. Now the company has announced they delivered the first 19 Mustang FR500S’ last weekend at the inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series.
New owners were given the chance to meet with series officials, receive technical information from Ford Racing engineers and attend the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School. Priced at $75,000 the FR500S race cars sits below other Mustang race cars like the FR500C ($125,000) and the FR500GT ($250,000).
Power is provided by a tweaked version of the standard 4.6L V8 found in the Mustang GT, producing about 325 hp. Changes to the car include a new cold air intake, a modified exhaust system, performance tuning by Roush, a stripped down interior to remove excess weight, the addition of a rear wing and a roll cage. Co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park, a total of 77 Mustang FR500S’ were built by AutoAlliance International in Michigan.
The cars will compete in the Ford Mustang Challenge which will be held at various race tracks across the United States. Sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association, the series will only be open to racers with the new FR500S.
Press Release
The inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series held its first official event this past weekend with 19 entrants taking delivery of their new Mustang FR500S race cars in a special program at Miller Motorsports Park.
Participants also had the opportunity to attend the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School, meet series officials, receive technical information from Ford Racing engineers and shake down their new race cars for the first time during the open track sessions on both Saturday and Sunday.
“The Mustang was a dominant showroom-based race car during the glory days of American road racing in the mid-1960’s and ‘70’s and this car certainly continues that proud tradition,” said Jamie Allison, manager of the Ford Performance Group. “Our intent was to develop a fun-to-drive reliable race car that delivers on what people have come to expect from a Mustang – V8 power and rear-wheel drive performance at an affordable price, and I think we’ve accomplished that with the FR500S.
“In the short time since the creation of the Mustang Challenge was announced at SEMA, the interest in the both the FR500S and the series has exceeded our expectations,” Allison continued. “We have a terrific mix of participants that bring experience from various forms of racing, including the Grand Am KONI Challenge Series, which should produce exciting, fender-to-fender racing.”
The FR500S was co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park and is the newest addition to the Mustang FR500 racing family. A total of 77 cars were manufactured at AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, MI, with additional race-prep fabrication at Watson Engineering (Taylor, MI) and final race prep at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT, the FR500S is the first race car built by Ford Motor Company at a production facility intended for sale to the public.
The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is a new professional racing series co-developed by Ford Racing and Miller Motorsports Park and appeals to racers looking to compete in an affordable, challenging V8-powered rear-wheel-drive car. Utilizing only the new Ford Mustang FR500S and sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association, the series will stage eight races in support of major professional road racing events across North America:
May 2-4
Road Atlanta
HSR
June 13-15
Mosport International Raceway
NASCAR (Canada)
June 20-22
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Grand Am
July 18-20
Barber Motorsports Park
Grand Am
August 15-16
Lime Rock Park
NASCAR (East)
August 29-21
New Jersey Motorsports Park
Grand Am
September 19-21
Miller Motorsports Park (doubleheader)
Grand Am
For more information about the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup or details on how to purchase a Mustang FR500S, please visit www.MustangChallenge.com.
Source: Ford
[Source: KickingTires] & [Via: AutoBlog]
When you’re young, fun takes priority over function. Once age sets in, function gets the nod.
That's the finding of a nationwide survey by TRU, a Northbrook, Ill.-based subsidiary of Research International USA, which specializes in the buying behavior and trends of two of the nation's most sought-after age groups by those with products to sell: teens and 20-somethings.
In its latest survey, TRU asked youth what new vehicle they most want to buy — with one stipulation: To keep the kids from simply inking “Lamborghini” on the dotted line and returning to their iPods, their desired car had to be one they could buy if they’d socked away enough money on their own or if their parents opened the checkbook.
Teens picked the sporty Ford Mustang first, while the 20-somethings went with the practical Honda Civic.
"Mustang pops up as No. 1 among teens because it's a lot of fun and the parents usually pay the insurance and hand the kids their gasoline credit card," said TRU spokesman Rob Callender. “Civic pops up among the older 20-somethings because they pay for their own insurance and gas, so function takes priority.”
Among teens, the most desired cars in order of preference were the Mustang, Civic (to customize), Honda Accord, Volkswagen Beetle, Toyota Camry, Toyota Corolla, Chevy Impala, Ford Focus, Ford F-150 pickup, Jeep Wrangler, Chevy Silverado pickup, VW Jetta and Nissan Maxima.
Among 20-somethings, the Beetle, Wrangler and Focus were missing.
"Beetle is only popular among teen girls, not teen guys or any 20-something, regardless of gender," Callender said.
Also noticeable in their absence were any full-size SUVs, such as the Cadillac Escalade, which only two years ago was the most sought-after SUV by youth who wanted to make a statement.
"Escalade lost its cachet when gas prices rose," Callender said, noting that only one SUV was listed be either age group, and that was the compact Wrangler.
Though teens aspire to own a Mustang, that doesn't mean one will end up in their driveway.
"Teens may aspire to the Mustang, but the parents often buy the Civic,” Callender said. “With 20-somethings, the budget holds the veto power over what they buy, but with teens, parents hold the veto power."
[Via AutoBlog &Jalopnik &Mustang Evolution]
Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday it is recalling 470,000 Ford Mustangs from the 2005-2008 model years to recalibrate how forcefully the air bag deploys on the front passenger side of the car. Internal testing showed the air bag could injure a small, unbelted passenger, said Ford spokesman Wesley Sherwood. The recall was posted on the website of the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Sherwood said the fix would address “a very rare scenario,” and there were no reports of injuries or accidents tied to the recall.
Nearly 435,000 of the recalled vehicles are in the United States, with most of the remaining vehicles in Mexico and Canada. The Dearborn-based automaker will notify customers by mail in early March. Owners can take their vehicle to a dealer to have the air bag recalibrated to deploy at a lower force. For additional details, owners can call Ford at (866) 436-7332 or visit the company’s Owner Services Website at http://www.ford.com/owner-services.
[Via Jalopnik]
Last week we had the inaugural match of Star Car Shootout, in which the James Bond's Lotus Esprit from The Spy Who Loved Me went head-to-head against the Lamborghini Countach from Speed Zone in a battle to decide which big screen star was cooler. We've counted the votes, and with most of the precincts now reporting, Jalopnik projects that the Lotus has won.
This week, we've got another big-shot superstar facing off against a relative underdog. Appropriately for our whole "Which is cooler?" hook, both cars co-starred with the "King of Cool" himself, Steve McQueen. Now, while McQueen certainly surrounded himself with some impressive rides over the years, for this shootout we had to pick just two of them. The others will have to wait their turn. So for this match, we're pitting the Ford Mustang 390 GT from Bullitt against the Porsche 911 S from Le Mans. Yes, you're now probably already visualizing those scenes in your head, but just in case you aren't, we've got the clips after the jump.
Start talking about Steve McQueen's cars, and the first one that'll come to mind for most people is the Dark Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang from Bullitt. Thing is, McQueen never actually owned the car. Of course, that doesn't disqualify the 'stang for this contest, but it does raise an interesting question. Did McQueen even particularly like the Mustang? His personal garage was filled mostly with European sports cars, not American muscle. Watching the chase scene, you'll notice that neither the Charger nor the Mustang take turns all that well. It's even been said that the shot of the 'stang overcooking one of the corners wasn't planned at all. Though I suppose if I'm going to start critiquing the film too closely, I would also have to start counting green VW Beetles, and I really don't want to do that. Besides, this isn't some class for a film student; we're here for the car. And it must be said the dark Mustang fastback with a 390ci V8 looks and sounds fantastic. It's an automotive icon. But there's a problem with that. Being famous to a degree is cool, but being a tool for a marketing department is not. In recent years, Ford has made not just one "special edition" Bullitt Mustang, but two. Which means that you really don't have to be "in the know" to know about the car. It's like having your favorite rock band from the '60s all of a sudden become hugely popular again. You like the music still, but the all the teenage fans, the Broadway musicals, and the appearances on daytime television just sort of ruin the cool factor.
Unlike the Mustang, McQueen actually owned the '70 Porsche 911 S from Le Mans. He wanted a car to drive around in Europe while he was shooting the film, so he bought the Porsche, and when shooting was finished, he had it sent back to America. Now sure, there's no on-screen hoonage starring the 911, but you can only imagine that McQueen drove the snot out of the thing when he was off-camera. But that's not the point--this car was was cool not because it drove around jumping over hills and chasing baddies. The 911 is cool because it is understated and relaxed; it's what the tormented race car driver drove when, as McQueen's character famously put it in the film, he was "just waiting" between races. It has what the Mustang lacks: inconspicuousness. You really need to be obsessed with cars to appreciate the Porsche. For example, the current owner of the 911 was a Porsche collector who bought the car a few years ago without even knowing that it was in the Le Mans film; he just liked the car. Watch it cruise through France and you can't help but like it too.
[Via AutoBlog and Jalopnik]
[Photo: Brian Willliams for Brenda Priddy & Co.]
We've shown you plenty of 2010 Ford Mustang spy shots in recent months, but after seeing the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 in person this week at the Chicago Auto Show, our eagerness for the pony car wars to begin anew has reached a fever pitch. These new spy shots of the refreshed Mustang GT that is scheduled to debut as a 2010 model focus exclusively on the car's rear end where we get our best view yet of its new taillights. It appears that brake lights are inspired by three vertical brake lights that were on the original Mustangs. Brenda Priddy's spy photog also happened to catch this particular convertible just as a train was passing by bearing "GT" on the side of a car. It must make spy photography so much easier when random objects in your environment happen to caption the subject of your shot.
[Photo: Brian Willliams for Brenda Priddy & Co.]
[Via Jalopnik]
Well, our good friends at Knight Rider Online have the scoop yet again on a new commercial for the new Mustang-ed up Knight Rider mini-series. The show'll be airing on the February 17th. The commercial? From what we understand, that aired last night on Conan O'Brien. The one new bit of info we're able to glean from the 30-seconds of 'stang-love is we get to see KITT's voice modulator for the first time. Oh yay. Want to see the other commercials? They're here, here and here and oh yes, here. We're going to get back to covering the Chicago Auto Show now.
[Via Knight Rider Online]
[Photos From NBC.com]
[Via Mustang.com]
Written by Ford Racing
Written by Ford Racing
Could this be the 2010 Mustang? One of our readers thinks that this is probably what the next major uplift of the our favorite pony car will look like. What do you think? Leave a comment or question in the comments section, please.
[Via AutoBlog]
New York has been a relatively quiet show for Ford, with the Transit Connect Taxi Concept being its highest-profile (literally, even) unveiling at the show. It's not the only one, however. Ford quietly unveiled the 2009 "Warriors in Pink" Mustang. Like its predecessors, the WIP 'Stang will be produced in a limited run (1,000 cars) with $500 from each sale going to the Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure, a charitable organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness. The '09 Warriors In Pink cars are Mustang V6 Premium models adorned with a new grille, pink hood and side stripes, pink-ribbon badging, and pink accent stitching inside. The display car is a silver coupe with the optional glass roof. The car is also available as a ragtop, and black or white paint is also on offer. On the coupe Carroll Shelby once referred to as a "secretary's car", the Warriors In Pink package seems to fit right in.
[Source: Ford]
For morepictures of the NYIAS coverage, see AutoBlog's full gallery HERE.
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PRESS RELEASE:
FORD LAUNCHES 'WARRIORS IN PINK' MUSTANG FOR '09, DOUBLES CONTRIBUTIONS TO RACE FOR THE CURE
* Ford unveils new 'Warriors in Pink' edition Mustang at the New York International Auto Show to raise money for breast cancer education and research.
* The company is doubling its contribution to the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure – to $500 for each Warriors in Pink Mustang sold.
* Ford and its dealers together have dedicated more than $95 million in cash and in-kind contributions for breast cancer education and research.
NEW YORK, March 19, 2008 – Ford Motor Company, which has dedicated more than $95 million in cash and in-kind contributions for breast cancer education and research for 14 years, announces today that it is doubling its contribution to Susan G. Komen for the Cure each time it sells a 'Warriors in Pink' package for the 2009 Ford Mustang.
"Thanks to the tremendous response from our dealers and customers to the 2008 'Warriors in Pink' Mustang, we knew we needed to continue offering the package, and we're happy to be able to increase our support for the Cure at the same time," said Connie Fontaine, Ford Experiential Marketing manager.
Produced in a limited edition of 1,000 units, the Mustang with Warriors in Pink package was designed exclusively in support of Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure. New upgrades for the 2009 package are featured on the Ford display at the New York International Auto Show.
Available on the Mustang V-6 Premium Coupe and Convertible models, the Warriors in Pink package includes a unique grille and will add a pink ribbon and pony fender badge, pink Mustang rocker tape striping, charcoal leather seats with pink stitching, aluminum-spoke steering wheel with pink stitching and charcoal floormats with pink ribbon and contrast stitching.
Coupes also can be ordered with the all-new glass roof option. Three body colors will be available: Black, Brilliant Silver and Performance White.
Ford Warriors in Pink
Launched in 2006, the Ford Warriors in Pink campaign recognizes the strength and courage it takes to deal with the everyday challenges of fighting breast cancer.
Ford's goal in 2008 is to donate more than $1 million for the Cure through these sales of the special Mustangs, Warriors in Pink apparel and other fundraising efforts.
The Warriors in Pink apparel collection for men and women feature important symbols signifying the message of hope, strength and unity in the commitment to the fight against breast cancer. All apparel is available on www.fordcares.com, and 100 percent of net proceeds are donated to Komen for the Cure.
The limited-edition 2009 Mustang with Warriors in Pink will be available through Ford dealers this summer.
Mustang is one of the greatest automotive sales success stories of all time. Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang, and the Mustang is also America's best-selling convertible.
About Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, which helped launch the global breast cancer awareness and education movement.
Today, Race for the Cure is the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Race for the Cure, the foundation has invested nearly $1 billion to fulfill that promise, becoming the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world. For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, breast health or breast cancer, visit www.komen.org or call 1-800 I'M AWARE.
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 245,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's breast cancer awareness initiatives, visit www.fordcares.com.
[Source: Ford]
New York has been a relatively quiet show for Ford, with the Transit Connect Taxi Concept being its highest-profile (literally, even) unveiling at the show. It's not the only one, however. Ford quietly unveiled the 2009 "Warriors in Pink" Mustang. Like its predecessors, the WIP 'Stang will be produced in a limited run (1,000 cars) with $500 from each sale going to the Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure, a charitable organization dedicated to raising breast cancer awareness. The '09 Warriors In Pink cars are Mustang V6 Premium models adorned with a new grille, pink hood and side stripes, pink-ribbon badging, and pink accent stitching inside. The display car is a silver coupe with the optional glass roof. The car is also available as a ragtop, and black or white paint is also on offer. On the coupe Carroll Shelby once referred to as a "secretary's car", the Warriors In Pink package seems to fit right in.
[Source: Ford]
For morepictures of the NYIAS coverage, see AutoBlog's full gallery HERE.
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PRESS RELEASE:
FORD LAUNCHES 'WARRIORS IN PINK' MUSTANG FOR '09, DOUBLES CONTRIBUTIONS TO RACE FOR THE CURE
* Ford unveils new 'Warriors in Pink' edition Mustang at the New York International Auto Show to raise money for breast cancer education and research.
* The company is doubling its contribution to the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure – to $500 for each Warriors in Pink Mustang sold.
* Ford and its dealers together have dedicated more than $95 million in cash and in-kind contributions for breast cancer education and research.
NEW YORK, March 19, 2008 – Ford Motor Company, which has dedicated more than $95 million in cash and in-kind contributions for breast cancer education and research for 14 years, announces today that it is doubling its contribution to Susan G. Komen for the Cure each time it sells a 'Warriors in Pink' package for the 2009 Ford Mustang.
"Thanks to the tremendous response from our dealers and customers to the 2008 'Warriors in Pink' Mustang, we knew we needed to continue offering the package, and we're happy to be able to increase our support for the Cure at the same time," said Connie Fontaine, Ford Experiential Marketing manager.
Produced in a limited edition of 1,000 units, the Mustang with Warriors in Pink package was designed exclusively in support of Susan G. Komen Foundation for the Cure. New upgrades for the 2009 package are featured on the Ford display at the New York International Auto Show.
Available on the Mustang V-6 Premium Coupe and Convertible models, the Warriors in Pink package includes a unique grille and will add a pink ribbon and pony fender badge, pink Mustang rocker tape striping, charcoal leather seats with pink stitching, aluminum-spoke steering wheel with pink stitching and charcoal floormats with pink ribbon and contrast stitching.
Coupes also can be ordered with the all-new glass roof option. Three body colors will be available: Black, Brilliant Silver and Performance White.
Ford Warriors in Pink
Launched in 2006, the Ford Warriors in Pink campaign recognizes the strength and courage it takes to deal with the everyday challenges of fighting breast cancer.
Ford's goal in 2008 is to donate more than $1 million for the Cure through these sales of the special Mustangs, Warriors in Pink apparel and other fundraising efforts.
The Warriors in Pink apparel collection for men and women feature important symbols signifying the message of hope, strength and unity in the commitment to the fight against breast cancer. All apparel is available on www.fordcares.com, and 100 percent of net proceeds are donated to Komen for the Cure.
The limited-edition 2009 Mustang with Warriors in Pink will be available through Ford dealers this summer.
Mustang is one of the greatest automotive sales success stories of all time. Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang, and the Mustang is also America's best-selling convertible.
About Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything in her power to end breast cancer forever. In 1982, that promise became Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, which helped launch the global breast cancer awareness and education movement.
Today, Race for the Cure is the world's largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures. Thanks to events like the Race for the Cure, the foundation has invested nearly $1 billion to fulfill that promise, becoming the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer in the world. For more information about Susan G. Komen for the Cure, breast health or breast cancer, visit www.komen.org or call 1-800 I'M AWARE.
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With more than 245,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's breast cancer awareness initiatives, visit www.fordcares.com.
[Source: Ford]
Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra GT500
Ain't she a beauty... I drove past this car today at the local Ford dealership... I can't get it out of my head. It was just siting outside. I really just wanted to run up to it and hug it, maybe take a few pictures of my own.
What acar BEAST. I want it.
Ain't she a beauty... I drove past this car today at the local Ford dealership... I can't get it out of my head. It was just siting outside. I really just wanted to run up to it and hug it, maybe take a few pictures of my own.
What a
 |
For the cosmetics, I had it stripped, straightened and painted to show quality. Much time and effort (and money) was spent on body and paint. The widebody flares are yes, custom molded, but it is not your flimsy kit car or aftermarket type. It is 1/2 inch thick finished and is as strong as metal. Over 160 hrs were spent stripping to bare metal, sanding and blocking this car to get it as slick as possible. Multi stage paint was then applied. I also tracked down an ultra rare Secura FIV steering wheel (paid $1800) for an original look and feel for the interior. The undercarriage is clean and completely rust free. The floors are original with only a small 5inch section showing repair at some previous point. I mention these points only to illustrate how solid the car has always been and still is. Obviously a lot more was done to make the car what it is now.
What better way to celebrate the 85th birthday of Carroll Shelby, the man responsible for some of the best American muscle (and the Omni GLH), than with the production of the mean GT500KR? A King of the Road for a King of American Muscle. Works for me. 540 horsepower and 510 ft-lbs of torque for the first 79 years and a six-speed Tremec manual tranny for the last six. Only 1,000 of these sexy beasts will be available, so expect to pay a king's ransom for the privilege.
PRESS RELEASE
FORD SHELBY GT500KR ROARS INTO PRODUCTION ON AUTOMOTIVE LEGEND'S 85TH BIRTHDAY
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 11, 2008 - Automotive legend Carroll Shelby shares his 85th birthday with a new performance standout - the 540-horsepower 2008 GT5000KR, which begins production today.
The GT500KR or "King of the Road" Mustang is the fourth limited-edition Mustang that Shelby Automobiles and Ford have brought to market since resuming their collaboration in 2001. It builds on the performance and success of the 500-horsepower Shelby GT500 - the most powerful production Mustang ever.
The new GT500KR will be available at select Ford dealerships this spring. Production is limited at 1,000 units.
"It is simply magic when Shelby and Ford team up and deliver products like the GT500KR," said Mark Fields, Ford's president, The Americas. "Collaborations like this have helped Mustang remain at the top of the sports car segment for 22 straight years - and running - and help inspire people who truly want and value performance."
Carroll Shelby, who was actively involved in the GT500KR's development, said: "My energy and passion for performance products has always been strongest when I am working with Ford. I'm always looking to up the ante when it comes to performance, and bringing back the 'King of the Road' Mustang is just what we need."
Delivering the "King of the Road"
Each Shelby GT500KR begins life as a GT500, built at AutoAlliance International Inc., in Flat Rock, Mich. From there, the cars are shipped to Shelby Automobile's facility in Las Vegas, where a Ford Racing performance pack, exhaust system and short-throw shifter are installed. The GT500KR also is fitted with body, chassis and interior components. Every GT500KR will be hand customized and delivered to each customer in an enclosed transporter, just like the legendary Ford GT.
To fine-tune the GT500KR's chassis - stiffened 50 percent to deliver increased body control - SVT engineers and Shelby put the GT500KR through a rigorous testing program developed specially for SVT products, including a 12-hour racetrack durability test. The result is a car with increased performance capability that is still comfortable to drive on the street.
The GT500KR's aerodynamics were fine-tuned to add 50 pounds of downforce over the front axle and move the center of aero pressure forward in the vehicle to improve high-speed balance and downforce under high-speed braking. A new front splitter design works with the hood and revised rear spoiler to deliver these benefits. The bottom line: the GT500KR sets new performance standards for Mustang handling and straight-line performance on the racetrack, slalom course and skidpad.
"Because the Shelby GT500 strikes a great balance between ride and handling, we knew that the GT500KR had to be even better," said Jamal Hameedi, chief engineer at Ford SVT. "We used a holistic approach, having chassis engineers work closely with the engine specialists to develop a tuning suspension that optimizes the engine enhancements."
Added Gary Davis, vice president production for Shelby Automobiles: "We aren't fixing our attention on one or two attributes, but working on the vehicle as a whole. The throttle response, power delivery, exhaust note and handling all work together to deliver a great total driving experience."
To deliver that balance, the ride height has been lowered to the optimum setting for limit handling, which equates to a 20 mm ride height reduction in the front and 15 mm in the rear.
The Shelby GT500KR team sculpted a modern interpretation of the original's bulging hood scoop, a visual indication of the extra horsepower packed beneath it. The hood is secured by a pair of stainless steel, twist-down hood pins.
To save weight, the hood borrows design elements from the ducted aluminum/carbon fiber clamshell on the Ford GT. Developed through intensive use of analytical tools including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), the design optimizes the structural properties of carbon fiber delivering panels at a wafer-thin 0.8 mm. The hood saves 15 pounds versus its aluminum counterpart in the GT500.
Unlike most traditional designs, the hood has three components: the outer panel, an integrated airflow duct which spans the entire hood and the inner panel. The duct serves three purposes: to channel supplemental fresh air into the new cold air intake, to relieve high-speed underhood pressure and to move air from the front intake and engine compartment to the rear extractors.
The Shelby GT500KR will ride on all-new Goodyear tires, which make their North American debut exclusively on this new Mustang. The Supercar F1 tire, made of a new performance compound, resulted from a special collaboration between SVT and Goodyear.
Each GT500KR model is identified by a special 40th Anniversary badge on the fenders and grille, distinctive body colored mirror caps and Shelby lettering stretching across the front of the hood and along the rear portion of the deck lid. a special Shelby VIN tag is affixed to each vehicle, mounted in the engine compartment.
The all-leather interior features Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and an official Shelby CSM 40th Anniversary GT500KR dash plate mounted at the top of the center stack.
Other standard equipment includes HID headlamps, an interior ambient lighting package, wrapped and stitched instrument panel, center console and armrests, as well as an electrochromic rearview mirror. Optional equipment includes a Shaker 1000 audio system and DVD navigation system.
The GT500KR's 5.4-liter V-8 Gets the Royal Treatment
Just like its namesake, the 1968 GT500KR, the 2008 "King of the Road" packs a walloping dose of Ford performance. The Ford SVT-engineered 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is enhanced with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts horsepower to an estimated 540-hp and torque to 510 ft.-lbs. The added power comes thanks to revised ignition and throttle calibration and a cold air intake system that replaces the stock unit. The Shelby GT500KR cold air intake seal was designed in unison with the new carbon fiber hood to prevent hot engine compartment air from reaching the air intake.
Calibration modifications include advancing the ignition timing as well as re-mapping the electronic throttle settings to provide quicker throttle response for better off-line and mid-range acceleration. Increased throttle response will be met with a sharper roar from the Ford Racing-inspired exhaust system.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission and 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, compared with the GT500's 3.31:1.
To perform optimally on track and during performance driving, the Shelby GT500KR has been fitted with an elevated axle vent reservoir to prevent axle fluid expulsion. Gear selection is courtesy of an all-new Ford Racing short-throw shifter making its debut on the GT500KR. Topped with a white ball, the new shifter throws are 25 percent shorter than the unit on the GT500 providing for crisper, sharper shifts. [Source: Ford]
Saleen Partner's with an American Icon to Create an American Legend
New York, NY (March 20, 2008) - Saleen Automotive, America's premiere automotive enthusiast brand for over a quarter of a century, announced today at the New York Auto Show that it has entered into a partnership with American automotive legend Dan Gurney for creation of a special Gurney Signature Edition Mustang. "It is amazing that just two years ago Saleen was standing on stage here at the Javitz Center with Parnelli Jones and today we are with his long time rival and friend, and truthfully one of America's racing heroes, Mr. Dan Gurney," said Saleen President and CEO Paul Wilbur. All 300 of the Gurney Signature Edition vehicles will feature Saleen's 465 HP supercharged 281 cubic inch engine, short throw shifter, and 3.73 Max Grip rear axle. In addition, the vehicles will have custom two-tone seats that feature either blue or red Alcantara inserts designed to keep your rear end planted firmly behind the wheel. The legendary Gurney Eagle© logo is featured on the steering wheel and several other places around the car. The exterior reflects the look of Dan's 1969 Trans Am series Mustang, masterfully recreated in a fashion that honors history but looks aggressively towards the future. The heritage styled Gurney Edition body kit, 'duck bill' rear spoiler and 'stinger' style hood all come together in harmony with the carefully placed graphics and die cut Gurney Eagle insignia. "I am pleased that they could make a car that is so beautiful but still so true to my old race car. At the end of the day, all I really want is a car that is faster than Parnelli's" said racing great, Dan Gurney. Saleen executives were not prepared to make that statement, but what they did say is: "this is likely the best all around 281 supercharged car that Saleen has ever built," commented Saleen General Manager, Marques McCammon. "Dan Gurney has always been about business on the track. His cars were light, fast and handled like they were on rails," said Saleen Vice Chairman and Chief Technical Officer, Chris Theodore. "I'll admit we added a little weight when we added the blower to this car, but you will be shocked at how this car cuts through a corner." The Gurney Signature Edition gets its dynamic ability from the specially tuned Racecraft suspension, Generation-II Watts-Link Rear End, and super sticky Pirelli Corsa tires. This is a suspension combination that has never before been featured on a Saleen vehicle, and one that received the personal stamp from Dan Gurney himself. "It is like a dream come true to spend time on the tarmac with the Gurney's. Together, we will create a package that I am sure that market will love," said Chassis and Dynamics Lead Derk Hartland. The Gurney Signature Edition Mustang is slated to begin production this April and should start appearing in dealers later that month. With production being limited to only 300 cars, the Gurney Edition is sure to be a must have amongst collectors. In honor of Mr. Gurney's 'All American Racer persona the cars will be offered in only three colors: Torch Red, Performance White, and the feature color Vista Blue. One hundred of each color will be made with contrasting color graphics and interiors, and a set of "#2" roundels to truly relive the Gurney experience. "The most important piece of the car to me is Dan Gurney's signature on the center of the dash," commented Wilbur. " I view it as the stamp of approval by one of America's greatest drivers"
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Fully restored #2-condition. Serial number 8T03s173647-01997. pg 866 of the Shelby Reg. in SAAC registry. Highland Green, Black int. Delux Marti report/build sheet showing build date 2/23/68. 1 0f 402. white top, extra cooling package, visibility grp. pwr str., pwr disc brakes, tilt away, sold new from Fuller ford cinn., OH. 58,000 original miles. partial title history showing ownership going back to 1977. recent freshening up restoration with 10k spent. rare aluminum police interceptor intake.
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Finished in stunning all black with beautiful matching interior this spectacular Mustang has been painstakingly restored and upgraded to the classic Shelby GT 350. Options include power steering, 4-speed transmission, Eleanor wheels, Shelby air scopes, highly detailed, and can virtually not be told from the original. This is an incredible opportunity to acquire a spectacular work of art at a tremendous savings. Offered to the most astute enthusiast without investing $200,000 for the original. Bid with confidence- you will not be disappointed in this exquisite example.
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Features
Body type: Coupe
Engine: 5.4L SC 4V V8
Exterior color: Orange
Transmission: Manual
Fuel type: Gasoline
Interior color: Black
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2004 Ford Mustang Roush Salvage Rebuildable Repairable
Mileage:
25,008 miles
Location:
Azusa, CA
Summary
More than just a show pony, the 2009 Ford Mustang offers enthusiasts on a budget a tempting combination of potent performance and timeless styling. Given today's gas prices, though, the Mustang's prodigious thirst detracts from its appeal.
Pros
Powerful performance in V8 versions, eye-catching retro styling, simple controls, low price.
Cons
Poor interior quality, guzzles gas, seats lack sufficient lateral support, stability control not available.
What's New for 2009
The Ford Mustang rides into 2009 with standard and optional equipment changes. The V6 and GT Premium trims receive upgraded interior trim, multicolored ambient lighting and satellite radio as standard. Those trims also get a new glass roof option.
2009 Ford Mustang Vehicle Overview
Introduction
Secretariat, Seabiscuit, Mr. Ed. What's missing from this list? There's another American steed famous for entertaining its fans for nearly half a century -- the Ford Mustang. Having weathered oil crises, ugly styling crises, increasing emissions standards, corporate turmoil and unending penny-pinching over the years, the Mustang is a true survivor. While rival pony cars have been sent to the glue factory, the original has only grown stronger and more popular.
In case you've been locked in that glue factory yourself for a few years, you'll be interested to learn that today's 2009 Ford Mustang hearkens back to the glory days of the 1960s with classic muscle-car looks and classic muscle-car power. The V8-powered GT model boasts 300 horsepower and driving dynamics that, in a departure from Mustangs past, are actually pretty impressive in spite of the car's old-school solid-axle rear suspension. And the Mustang Bullitt version, which debuted last year, takes the nostalgia to a new level with styling and trim inspired by the classic Steve McQueen movie car, along with a sport-tuned suspension, modified exhaust and upgraded brakes. If we had our pick of regular V8 Mustangs, the Bullitt would be the one.
On the other hand, we'd skip V6-powered Mustang models. Their losing combination of 210 hp and SUV-like fuel economy is hard to appreciate in this time of $4-a-gallon gas. If you're going to drive a gas-guzzler, it had better offer thrilling acceleration as a trade-off -- the GT does, but the V6 does not.
Another con to consider is the Mustang's lack of refinement -- both in handling and interior quality. Competitors like the BMW 128i, Mazda RX-8 and Nissan 350Z are superior on both counts. However, the Mustang's style, available V8 power, respectable handling and affordable price will always find takers in this muscle-car-loving land. Even as Chevy and Dodge resurrect their pony car nameplates with the Camaro and Challenger, there's no doubt the legendary Ford Mustang will remain an American favorite.
For Pricing information, see our Pricing page.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2009 Ford Mustang is available as a coupe or convertible in four trim levels: V6 Deluxe, V6 Premium, GT Deluxe and GT Premium. The V6 Deluxe includes 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, cruise control, air-conditioning, full power accessories, a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The V6 Premium adds upgraded 16-inch wheels, a power driver seat and a Shaker 500 upgraded stereo with six-CD changer. The convertible versions feature a power vinyl top with cloth material as an option. In addition to its V8 engine, the GT Deluxe comes with all the V6 Deluxe's features plus 17-inch alloys, a rear spoiler, foglamps and sport seats. The GT Premium adds the Shaker 500 sound system and leather upholstery.
There are a number of option-package and special-edition Mustangs available. The V6-powered Mustangs can be equipped with the Pony package, which includes firmer suspension tuning, 17-inch wheels, foglamps and a unique grille. The GT appearance package offers chrome exhaust tips, a hood scoop and an engine cover with the Mustang emblem. Both Premium trims can be upgraded with a comfort group that adds heated front seats, a power passenger seat and an auto-dimming mirror with compass. There are also interior trim upgrade packages available.
The Mustang Bullitt is considered an options package for the GT Premium coupe. It adds a cold-air-induction setup, unique exhaust and suspension tuning, high-performance brake pads, a front strut tower brace, 18-inch alloy wheels and special interior and exterior alterations. There are also two cosmetic packages available -- the GT California Special and the Warriors in Pink. Proceeds from the latter benefit the Susan G. Komen for the Cure breast cancer activist organization.
Individual options, depending on trim level, include 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a glass roof, the upgraded Shaker sound system, remote ignition, Bluetooth, iPod integration and a touchscreen navigation system.
For more Style information, see our Compare Styles page.
Powertrains and Performance
All Ford Mustangs are rear-wheel drive and come standard with a five-speed manual transmission. A five-speed automatic is optional on all versions except the manual-only Bullitt. The Mustang V6 is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 that produces 210 hp and 240 pound-feet of torque. Given this output, fuel economy is disappointing at 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined -- the same as Ford's 262-hp Flex SUV. The Mustang GT features a 4.6-liter V8 with 300 hp and 320-lb-ft output worthy of its muscle-car looks and heritage. With a manual transmission, the GT goes from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and clears the quarter-mile in 14.3 seconds. Its fuel economy is 15 mpg city/23 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined.
For more Performance Data, see our Specifications page.
Safety
Four-wheel disc brakes and front-seat side airbags are standard on all Mustangs. Antilock brakes and traction control are optional on the V6 models and standard on the GT. Neither stability control nor full-length head curtain airbags are available.
In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash tests, the 2009 Ford Mustang earned a perfect five stars for front-impact protection and side-impact protection of front passengers. The convertible got a five-star rating for rear side protection, while the coupe got four stars. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Mustang scored "Acceptable" (the second highest of four ratings) in frontal-offset tests and "Good" (the highest rating) for side-impact tests.
For more Safety information, see our Safety page.
Interior Design and Special Features
With its dual-hooded dash, three-spoke steering wheel and old-school gauges, the cabin of the 2009 Mustang gives more than a nod to the past. Yet this is not an outdated ergonomic mess – the controls are simple and the seats are comfortable, though they could use more lateral support for enthusiastic drivers. Both the Mustang coupe and the convertible offer seating for four, and average-size adults can sit in back with little problem. Trunk capacity is pretty good, with 12.3 cubic feet in the coupe and 9.7 in the convertible.
That's where the compliments end, though, as the Mustang features an abundance of rock-hard plastic and other unpleasant materials that make the car feel cheap. In particular, the rubber-trimmed metal hand brake operates and feels like it belongs on a John Deere grain harvester. Springing for upgraded trim options helps somewhat, but there's no getting around the Mustang's industrial feel.
For more Interior Features information, see our Specifications page.
Driving Impressions
Acceleration is respectable with the V6, regardless of whether you choose the precise bolt-action manual or the responsive automatic. The Mustang GT provides the quintessential muscle car experience, of course, with loads of torque available right off the line and an exhaust note to match. The four-wheel disc brakes do an adequate job of reining in the Mustang, as a stop from 60 mph takes a bit less than 125 feet. Despite its switch to an all-new platform a few years ago, the 2009 Ford Mustang continues to use a rather basic solid-axle rear suspension design. This allows Ford to keep the pricing low, yet careful tuning has resulted in reasonably precise handling through the corners and a surprisingly compliant ride.
Ford Mustang
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Ford Mustang
Manufacturer Ford Motor Company
Production 1964 – present
Assembly United States
Class Pony car
Body style(s) 2-door 2+2 seat coupé
2-door hatchback
2-door convertible
Layout FR layout
2010 model Ford Mustang badgeThe Ford Mustang is an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. It was initially based on the second generation North American Ford Falcon, a compact car.[1] Production began in Dearborn, Michigan on March 9, 1964 and the car was introduced to the public on April 17, 1964 at the New York World's Fair. It is Ford's second oldest nameplate currently in production next to the F-Series pickup truck line. However the F-series pickup truck has undergone major nameplate changes over the years. The Mustang was Ford's most successful launch since the Model A.[2]
Executive stylist John Najjar, who was a fan of the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane, suggested the name.[3][4] An alternative view was that the Mustang name was first suggested by Robert J. Eggert, Ford Division market research manager. Eggert, a breeder of quarterhorses, received a birthday present from his wife of the book, The Mustangs by J. Frank Dobie in 1960. Later, the book’s title gave him the idea of adding the “Mustang” name for Ford’s new concept car. The designer preferred Cougar or Torino (and an advertising campaign using the Torino name was actually prepared), while Henry Ford II wanted T-bird II.[5] As the person responsible for Ford’s research on potential names, Eggert added “Mustang” to the list to be tested by focus groups; “Mustang,” by a wide margin, ” came out on top under the heading: “Suitability as Name for the Special Car.”[6][7][8] (The name cannot be used in Germany, however, since it belongs to a lawnmower manufacturer; there, Mustangs are called T-5s.)[9]
The Mustang created the "pony car" class of American automobile — sports car-like coupes with long hoods and short rear decks[10] — and gave rise to competitors such as GM's Chevrolet Camaro,[11] AMC's Javelin,[12] and Chrysler's revamped Plymouth Barracuda.[13] It also inspired coupés such as the Toyota Celica and Ford Capri, which were exported to America.
Mustangs grew larger and heavier with each model year until, in response to the 1971-1973 models, fans of the original 1964 design wrote to Ford urging a return to its size and concept.
Although some other pony cars have seen a revival, the Mustang is the only original pony car to remain in uninterrupted production over four decades of development and revision.[14]
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