SEMA preview: Cervini's C500 Mustang

One of the most famous movie cars of all time, the car lovingly known as Eleanor played a staring role in the movie remake of Gone in 60 Seconds. And the look of the car was certainly a hit, as countless recreations have popped up everywhere, along with body kits that allow Mustang owners to recreate the look themselves. Most of these recreations are based on the iconic '67 fastback Mustangs such as the original car.

Now owners of new Mustangs will have a way to recreate the look on their own, modern rides. Cervini's has released images of its upcoming kit that will include a hood, front bumper, side skirts, scoops, rear valence, billet grilles, spoiler, fog lights, and side exhaust. Currently, only the hood and side scoops are available for purchase. Pricing has yet to be announced, but the car you see in the picture above will be making its appearance at this year's SEMA show so we expect more details at that time.

2010 Saleen S281 Mustang revealed

Following up on the sneak peek we were given of the 2010 Saleen S281 Mustang are these photos that reveal the entire car. The Saleen styling certainly lends itself well to the 2010 Mustang, as it is one of the better looking iterations. Stay tuned next week for lots more from SEMA.

Ford previews 2009 SEMA Mustangs

Ford Mustangs and the aftermarket go together like peanut butter and jelly, and the annual SEMA show is the gold standard of hopped up pony cars. While there are historically great examples of aftermarket Mustangs at SEMA, there are also historically ugly and horrible examples as well. Either way, it's good press for Ford and it sells cars off the lot.

Ford has released a preview of this year's SEMA show and some of the Mustangs we can look forward to seeing under the bright lights in Las Vegas. The list promises to appease pretty much every fan of the venerable pony car, and promises to offer up lots of options for the new-this-year 2010 model.

2010 Ford Mustang by 3dCarbon


Galpin Motor Sports


H&R Special Springs


Paul's High Performance


Steeda Q350


Street Scene Equipment


Mustang RTR-C


Ford Vehicle Personalization


PRESS RELEASE:

LAS VEGAS – The Ford Mustang, America's favorite muscle car, is also the most customized car in the $31.8 billion aftermarket industry, and there will be no shortage of polished-up ponies at this year's SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show, which is being held Nov. 3-6 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"The Mustang is an iconic car," said Melvin Betancourt, Ford SEMA design manager. "People always want to reinvent it, and everybody has an idea about what the next Mustang should be."

According to Allison Revier, Ford Mustang marketing manager, much of Mustang's popularity in the aftermarket is steeped in tradition.

"Many fathers pass down their classic Mustangs to their sons to restore," she said. "They form emotional ties to the car and create special memories."

But what really drives Mustang's success is a universally shared desire among owners to make their steed unique, says Revier. "The Mustang is a 'Look at me' car," she said. "You don't want to have the same Mustang that the guy down the street has. You want to stand apart."

In an effort to feed customization-hungry pony car enthusiasts, Ford recently launched the 2010 Mustang Customizer at www.the2010Mustang.com, a Web site offering an online experience that allows people to create their own virtual Mustangs, choosing colors and decals to complement the all-new design.

"Since we know the first thing customers do when they buy a Mustang is customize it, we wanted to show them everything they could do," explained Revier. "Some of it is concept – changing colors and stripes – but the site also gives us a chance to showcase our Genuine Ford Accessories as well as other aftermarket parts."

The response has been overwhelming. In just two months, more than 1 million custom Mustangs have been built on the site. "The Mustang Customizer allows users to get closer to this new product, as well as connect to the brand in a creative way because they can truly make it their own," said Adam Barrow, Ford digital marketing analyst. "Self-expression is what this brand is about."

Self-expression is evident with the Mustang project vehicles on display at this year's SEMA show, according to Revier. "They all look dramatically different, and that's what I think is so great about it," she said. "Everyone starts out with the same vehicle, but each aftermarket builder turns it into something completely distinctive."

Ernie Bunnell, vice president of sales and marketing for 3dCarbon of Newport Beach, Calif., says his Mustang is unique because it is a modern-day version of 3dCarbon's award-winning 2005 Mustang Boy Racer.

"We are introducing the 2010 Boy Racer – an evolution of styling from the old to the new," said Bunnell. "With its bold, aerodynamic design, this vehicle is sure to turn heads."

In addition to a 3dCarbon Boy Racer body kit, the red Mustang with white racing stripes features a front "E" grille, rear window trim, window louvers with gel decal inserts, headlight splitters and decklid spoiler – all created by 3dCarbon.

The official motto of Steeda Autosports, "Speed matters," is most certainly reflected in the Steeda Mustang that will be on display at SEMA.

"The Steeda Q350 is embodied with the very soul of Mustang performance," said Dario Orlando, president of Steeda Autosports. "It combines the dynamics and agility of a high-performance sports racer with the everyday practicality and comfort of America's original pony car – all in one integrated package."

The Steeda Mustang has an array of modifications, including a functional body kit with unique aerodynamic features, an upgraded street/track suspension system, numerous powertrain enhancements and a top-notch sport interior.

Ford Vehicle Personalization also will have a Mustang on display at SEMA. The vehicle, which features Ford Custom Accessories, sports a unique Carbon Black Metallic custom-colored exterior accented with satin gold 20-inch wheels and gold-tinted headlights and fog lamps. The interior continues the gold theme, with gold leather seat and door trim inserts, seat piping, steering wheel cover and shifter boot.

"Metallic gold is currently very much in fashion throughout the design world," said Mark Conforzi, chief designer, Ford Vehicle Personalization. "There is a wide variety of modern gold finishes that can be seen in fashion apparel designs from Stella McCartney, Dior, Prada and Alexander McQueen. I would like to encourage gold finishes on our future products, in subtle and technical applications presented in a modern way."

Ford Racing to announce race only 2010 Mustang Boss 302R

Ahh the Boss. This author's personal favorite Mustang of all time, the 1970 Boss came in 302 and 429 flavors, and made beautiful use of the Grabber Blue hue that is again available on new Mustangs.

2010 is the 40th Anniversary of the 1970 Boss 302's Trans-Am championship, so it only makes sense that Ford would celebrate by offering up a new race only Boss, the 302R. The new Boss will be offered in the Ford Performance Parts catalog, along with the FR500S, FR500C, and FR500CJ.

The 302R is obviously for off road use only, and of course will be very limited in production. Pricing is said to be $79,000.

Two versions of the 302R will be available, with the base package designed to compete in various SCCA and NASA classes and the upgraded version built to Grand-Am KONI Challenge Series specifications.

The base Boss 302R includes a 5.0-liter four-valve V8 pushing out an estimated 400 horsepower as well as a six-speed transmission, race-spec suspension, brakes and tires, and safety equipment including a roll cage and race seats with safety harnesses.

The Grand-Am spec version also gets a sealed high-output race engine, seam-welded body, racing fuel cell, a data acquisition system and more for a cost of $129,000.

Ford Racing is currently taking orders, and judging by sales of their other competition Mustangs you will need to order immediately if you want to get one.

PRESS RELEASE

Ford Racing Announces Limited Edition (50 units) 2010 Boss 302R Mustang

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Mustang Boss 302's iconic 1970 Trans-Am championship, and to build on the success of the Mustang FR500C (winner of 2005/2008/2009 Grand-Am Championships), Ford Racing is proud to announce the development of a new race-prepared road racing Mustang – the 2010 Ford Racing Boss 302R. Details of this exciting program have already begun to surface, and we want to ensure our dealers hear about it from us first.

The Ford Racing Mustang Boss 302R will be a factory-built race car, ready for track days and road racing in a number of SCCA and NASA classes. An optional Grand-Am Homologation Package will be available for the Grand-Am KONI Challenge series. While details are intentionally limited at this time, the following should help you assess the product and its appeal.

Program Intent
Continue the winning tradition of Mustang racing

Build limited to 50 units

Off-road only (VIN replaced by serial number)

Estimated pricing, $75,000 WD, $79,000 MSRP

Build/delivery in 3rd -4th Qtr 2010

Ford Racing Part #: M-FR500-BOSSR

Vehicle Content:
400 hp (est.) 5.0L 4V engine

6-speed manual transmission

Roll cage

Race dampers/springs, brakes, tire

Race seats, safety harness

Optional - Grand-Am Homologation Package2010 Grand-Am spec/approved package (Part Number: M-FR500-BOSSR1) for KONI Challenge includes:
Sealed high output race engine with upgraded cooling system

Close ratio 6-speed transmission with integral shifter

Seam-welded body

Race suspension/KONI dampers and ABS brake tuning

Race wheels/tires

Race performance exhaust

High speed balance 1-piece driveshaft

Racing fuel cell

Race data acquisition

Grand-Am spec vehicle is estimated to be $129,000 MSRP ($124,000 WD)

Orders / Feedback
Vehicle orders should be placed with the Ford Racing warehouse, 800-367-3786.

Priority delivery will be given to multiple vehicle orders.

An "off-road only" competition release will be required prior to delivery of the race car to the dealer.

Production of only 50 units is under consideration for 2010, so dealers are encouraged to submit their orders before December 31, 2009.

Questions about ordering should be directed to Wayne Geoffrey (wgeoffre@ford.com).

Steeda previews 2010 Q Series Mustang

Steeda has a long and storied history and tradition of building great Mustang parts, as well as tuned rolling cars you can buy whole. Their latest offering is the 2010 Q Series Mustang, and they are giving us a preview ahead of the car's SEMA debut.

Details are scarce, but we do have these two pictures of the car to give you a small taste of what the car will offer. We would obviously expect some type of supercharger, minor interior upgrades, and a host of suspension parts.

PRESS RELEASE:

A few months ago we teased you with a disguised "sneak peak" of our latest high performance Mustang - now, in advance of it's upcoming official debut in a few short weeks, we are pulling the wraps off and are releasing a much more revealing image of the newest, meanest, and best styled Steeda Mustang to ever rip the asphalt: The 2010 Steeda Q Mustang Series!

With an arresting exterior appearance, that includes an aggressive front air dam that incorporates ample cooling airflow while improving aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicle. This new Q-Series, the result of ongoing intense development and refinement, is guaranteed to continue Steeda Autosport's traditions of winning both on and off the racetracks.

With hundreds of hours of Computer Aided Design work completed, and extensive computer and wind tunnel analysis completed, as well as vigorous road coarse testing done in secret to avoid the prying eyes of spy photographers, we are confident that we have evoked the next evolution of our halo performance series that is completely without compromise today.

The development of this vehicle series is yet another example how the entire Team at Steeda Autosports takes great pride in designing, engineering, and manufacturing our products with the single goal of providing our discerning customers with the highest quality, race proven and track tested vehicles/components available anywhere.

"Simply put – no other car has won more races and set more records in production based classes than the Steeda Q Series of high performance Mustangs and I am confident that our 2010 version will carry on that same Steeda tradition" commented Dario Orlando, the founder of Steeda Autosports, "In all of our Q-Series of high performance Mustangs, we never compromise or take shortcuts, our customers who demand maximum performance, bullet-proof reliability, and class leading race honed styling wouldn't have it any other way!"

This latest evolution of the limited production Q-Series Mustang series will have it's official public debut at the 2009 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 3, 2009. Follow future Press releases for complete details about its official reveal – you will not want to miss it!

Roush Stage 3 and 540RH Mustangs revealed

Do you like your Mustang with performance or fluff? The choice is yours with the brand new Roush Stage 3 and 540RH Mustangs. The Stage 3 is Roush's logical successor to the 427R. It gets a 540-horsepower upgrade complete with a second-generation R2300 supercharger, forged internals, high-flow fuel rails and injectors, upgraded fuel pump and a beefier clutch. The $59,945 price tag also gets you 18-inch wheels and tires, 14-inch brakes, a Roush suspension system, various interior enhancements and a Roush body kit.

The 540RH is the car you want if you just seek performance and no fluff. Somewhat of a sleeper package, the 540RH includes all the performance goodies of the Stage 3 but only includes the the rear spoiler, a short-throw shifter, and a subtle stripe package. Roush claims that they have already run the car at their local strip and ripped off an 11.8 second quarter mile. This Shelby GT500 beating performance can be yours for a lower price tag of $46,145.

PRESS RELEASE:

ROUSH® introduces a pair of new 2010 Mustang models, each with 540 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque ready to be unleashed by the touch of the throttle.

The 2010 ROUSH Stage 3™ Mustang will once again take its rightful place atop the hierarchy of Jack Roush's lineup. The vehicle comes fully-loaded with the ROUSH body components; resonator exhaust; four-piston front brakes with 14-inch rotors and painted rear calipers with slotted rotors; and the new upper billet grille which removes the fog lamps and streamlines the appearance of the new Mustang while improving cooling performance. Interior enhancements include ROUSH leather seats with an embroidered Jack Roush signature; four-piece performance pedals; ROUSH illuminated sill plates; short throw shifter with black or white ball; and a new interior Stage 3 badge with the car's serial number engraved.

The 2010 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang will ride on 18-inch chrome wheels with high-performance Cooper RS3 tires; 20-inch chrome wheels with Cooper RS3 tires are one of the few options available on this model. The suspension package includes ROUSH front struts, rear shocks, front and rear springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and jounce bumpers.

"The ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang has traditionally been among the halo vehicles of our lineup and I'm really proud that it sits atop the pecking order once again," said Jack Roush. "This new iteration of the Stage 3 represents our highest horsepower and most sophisticated ROUSH Mustang yet, and is sure to resonate among our fans."

The suggested retail for the 2010 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang is $59,945*. The 2010 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang will have a limited production run of only 103 vehicles.

The second Mustang unveiled with the 540 horsepower powerplant is the new 2010 ROUSH 540RH™, a limited content, full powertrain vehicle. Also known as the Hammer®, this car comes armed with massive horsepower, a ROUSH rear decklid spoiler, and short throw shifter with a choice of white or black ball, the 540RH is a stoplight slayer.

Proving just how quick this car can be on the optional 18-inch Cooper RS3 tires, ROUSH engineers recorded an 11.8-second elapsed time at 121 mph during testing at Milan (Mich.) Dragway in early September.

"The new ROUSH 540RH is really intended to be a 'sleeper' car," Roush explained. "It will be purposely built with minimal content as it was designed for the buyer who wanted the ROUSH horsepower but with a blank canvas that can be customized into their own personal one-of-a-kind ride."

The 2010 ROUSH 540RH has a new suspension package which includes front and rear springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and jounce bumpers, and a subtle tone-on-tone striping package. All this comes with a suggested retail starting at $46,145* when built on a base Ford Mustang GT chassis.

Both the 2010 ROUSH Stage 3 Mustang and the 2010 ROUSH 540RH Mustang use the same engine that debuted in the 2009 ROUSH P-51B™ Mustang. In order to get this type of power from the Ford 4.6L, 3-valve engine, ROUSH technicians replace many of the internal components with stronger parts including forged aluminum pistons (with an increased dish to lower the compression ratio from 9.8 to 8.6), forged steel H-Beam connecting rods and a forged steel crankshaft. The fuel rails are changed, as are the fuel injectors and an upgraded fuel pump. ROUSH also upgrades the clutch and includes a custom-calibration for the ECM to manage the performance of the next-generation R2300 ROUSHcharger®.

As is standard with all new ROUSH Mustangs, both cars will come with the anti-wheel hop kit installed during the assembly process. This part (No. 401788) is an outstanding addition to any 2005-2010 Ford Mustang GT.

Both vehicles are covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and will be available with a manual transmission only. The 2010 ROUSH Stage 3 is expected to start production by the end of September; the 2010 ROUSH 540RH should start showing up on dealer lots in October. For more information on either of these new models, or to see the complete content list, visit www.ROUSHperformance.com.

Based in Livonia, Mich., "The Art of Performance Engineering" takes place at ROUSH Performance. To get a look behind the scenes at what goes on at ROUSH and how the vehicles are designed, manufactured and produced logon to www.ROUSHtv.com. For more information see your local ROUSH dealer, visit www.ROUSHperformance.com or telephone toll-free (800) 59-ROUSH. Follow us on Twitter @_ROUSH_

*Price includes current Ford incentives

2010 Hurst Mustang will pace the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge

Hurst Performance is having a busy year, rolling out their own versions of the Dodge Challenger, Viper, and Pontiac G8. In September they will roll out yet another Hurst vehicle, but unfortunately it's a one off. This 2010 Mustang Convertible will serve pace duties at the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge race at Miller Motorsports Park on September 19. Afterward, the car will attend various events including SEMA, and will eventually be auctioned off for charity at the start of 2010.

In addition to the standard Hurst gold and white paint, the Mustang will benefit from Hurst 20-inch forged wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich KDW tires, a Roush roots type supercharger, Eibach suspension components, a Magnaflow exhaust system, Hurst Competition/Plus short throw shifter, and Katzkin leather interior. Projected power is 435 hp with 400 lb-ft of torque. Check out the full details in the press release below.

PRESS RELEASE:

Hurst Performance Vehicles, a company who is responsible for some of the most iconic pace cars in racing history, announced today that it has partnered with BFGoodrich Tires, to create a very special supercharged 2010 Mustang convertible to serve as the official pace car for the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge event held at Miller Motorsports Park.

The BFGoodrich/Hurst Mustang pace car will debut at the last Ford Racing Mustang Challenge race of the season on Sept. 19.

After its run with the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge, this unique and highly-collectible Pace Car will make special appearances at numerous race tracks, car shows, parades and even SEMA, before being auctioned for charity in January 2010. Proceeds of the auction will go towards benefiting the newest Victory Junction Camp in Kansas City, KS to enrich the lives of children with chronic medical conditions or serious illnesses.

Jason and Lance Pittack, Owners of Woodhouse Auto Family of Blair, Neb. have confirmed that they will once again partner with Hurst Performance and BFGoodrich Tires, to donate the vehicle for this project.

"Hurst and BFGoodrich both have wonderful rich histories in all forms of racing," said Nate Shelton, Chairman of Hurst Performance Vehicles. "We are proud to partner BFGoodrich to once again set the pace for others to follow and give something back to a deserving organization."

The stunning BFGoodrich/Hurst Mustang Pace Car comes equipped with 20" BFGoodrich g-Force™ T/A® KDW tires for maximum performance and attitude; 20" Hurst polished, forged aluminum wheels and a Hurst Competition/Plus short-throw shifter with a gold anodized T-handle.

The engine pounds out 435-horsepower and 400 lb.-ft of torque, courtesy of the ROUSH Supercharger, Magnaflow stainless-steel exhaust and a K&N Air Filter. With a Hurst-tuned Eibach Suspension, coil-over adjustable shocks, springs and sway bar, this car is sure to keep people straining just to see it zoom by.

"We are excited to combine our proud legacy and racing heritage with Hurst's incredible creations," said Doug Brown, brand category manager at BFGoodrich Tires. "This year's pace car showcases the fun and excitement of the Ford Mustang Racing Challenge and the tires are a perfect match for the exhilaration."

Other signature Hurst details include a traditional Hurst white on gold paint scheme, Katzkin white on black interior with gold detailing, Hurst-logoed floor mats and a Hurst AIR-SPEED rear deck spoiler.

Hurst Performance Vehicles feature BFGoodrich tires on all of its highly collectible limited production cars.

Video: Iacocca Mustang commercial debuts

Celebrating the Mustang's 45th anniversary in style, Ford has rolled out 45 copies of the Iacocca Mustang for those who prefer their pony car with a little style. Iacocca is celebrating his latest ride by bankrolling this commercial, which sports some Sinatra tunes and SoCal scenery.

SEMA Preview: 2010 FlatBack Mustang

This year's SEMA show in Las Vegas is still a few months away, but that won't stop tuners from showing some of the goods they plan on bringing to the table in November. The first Mustang to be previewed for the show is this, the "FlatBack" from CGS Motorsports.

The black on black 'Stang features goodies like a two tone paint job, 22 inch wheels, Roush body kit, Baer brakes, KW coilover suspension, and a Whipple twin screw supercharger to up the pony count. Check out the press release below for all the details.

PRESS RELEASE:

CGS Motorsports is one of the leading manufacturers of High Performance Cat Back Exhaust Systems and Air Intake Systems for late model cars, trucks, & SUVs.

Besides being one of the leading manufacturers of Performance Products, CGS has also become one of the leading creators of many SEMA Show vehicles over the years. CGS has built several trucks and SUVs for the Big 3.

Once again, CGS is creating another SEMA Show vehicle for Ford, which will be showcased at the 2009 SEMA Show. They will be customizing a new 2010 Ford Mustang, designed by Sean Smith of SS Designs, and named "FlatBack"

This modern day street machine will feature custom matte paint by BASF Refinishes with paint preparation by 3M, 22" one-off Colorado Custom wheels, Pirelli Tires, custom seats by Recaro, coil over suspension by KW, body kit by Roush, Baer racing brakes, and a supercharger by Whipple Superchargers.

As illustrated in the rendering, FlatBack will feature a Matte grey metallic paint, with gloss black graphics. So be sure to check out the completed FlatBack at this year SEMA show in Las Vegas, NV.

Ford releases 2010 Mustang customizer

Ford has released an online customizer for it's 2010 Mustang. You can customize your Mustang in virtually any way possible, including trying out different hoods, louvers, scoops, spoilers, grilles, wheels, and stripes. You can even decide the size of your car's burnout. Check it out here.

Ford Mustang to finally get new 3.7 liter DOHC V6, new intake, FR3 handling package and Track Pack

Really, the only disappointing thing that came out of the new Mustang's introduction at the LA Auto Show last November was the fact that all of the last generation's powerplants carried over. And this meant that the lame, outdated 4.0L V6 would still be under the hood of a car that had a much revised interior and new sheetmetal.

Ford had promised that new powerplants were forthcoming, and we saw the first evidence of this in their new 5.0 V8. Now we have word that the excellent 3.7L V6 currently found in the Edge and Lincoln MKX will make it's way under the pony car's hood in 2011.

No specs have been released yet, but in it's MKX form the V6 makes 273hp. With a little tinkering, the 3.7 could be in the race for entry level pony car supremacy with the new Camaro, which puts out an even 300hp.

In other Mustang powerplant news, it appears that Ford will be offering a newly developed intake manifold for it's venerable 4.6L V8. The current intake works great until you hit 6,500 rpm, and then it falls flat on it's face. The new intake will allow you to run up to 7,500 rpm and will certainly open the engine up for some better mods.

In out last little tidbit of Mustang news, the Track Pack handling option will finally be made available for the 2010 Mustang this summer. The option will includes an upgraded suspension as well as unique 19 inch Pirelli tires.

Ford Racing will also be offering the FR3 handling pack, which includes an inch lower ride height, stiffer springs, stiffer sway bars and retuned dampers for $1,335.
Unlike most aftermarket parts, the FR3 will come with a full warranty and will also be available for V6 Mustangs as well as GT's.

PRESS RELEASE:

ENTHUSIASTS CAN ADD NEW FACTORY TRACK PACK FOR 2010 MUSTANG, INSTALL FORD RACING PARTS


Factory-installed Track Pack option features upgraded suspension parts, unique tuning and special 19-inch Pirelli summer tires for enthusiasts seeking even more performance
Track Pack is available this summer on 2010 Mustang GT coupes with manual transmissions
Car and Driver magazine selects 2010 Mustang fit with Track Pack as best muscle car in comparison test versus Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger
Parts from Ford Racing's FR3 Handling Pack available for enthusiasts seeking even more - backed by warranty and available for self or dealer installation

DEARBORN, Mich., June 10, 2009 - The 2010 Ford Mustang, now in dealer showrooms, builds on a proud, unbroken 45-year heritage of Fast, Fun and Affordable with an all-new exterior design, available cutting-edge technology and performance enhancements pioneered on Ford's extensive racing and special programs.

One hallmark of Mustang's enduring popularity is the opportunity to customize this American icon. Enthusiasts who have personalized and customized Mustangs range from legends, such as Carroll Shelby, to professional drivers to hobbyists who enjoy a weekend at the track.

For those customers interested in more-aggressive performance, an optional factory-installed Track Pack is available this summer for 2010 Ford Mustang GT coupes with manual transmission. Ford Racing's FR3 Handling Package also is available for those enthusiasts who want even more aggressive suspension tuning and can be installed in their garage or at a Ford dealer. Car and Driver magazine recently declared a 2010 Mustang equipped with a Track Pack the winner in a comparison test against the new Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger, calling the body control of the Mustang with the Track Pack "astounding."

For decades, the Mustang has been the preeminent car in many forms of racing compiling victories and championships on road courses all over the world. In just the last few years Ford Racing's Mustang FR500C captured the European GT4 drivers championship (2007, 2008) and the Grand-AM KONI Challenge championship (2005, 2008).

"At Ford, we always apply what we learn at the track to the street," said Fritz Wilke, Mustang Performance/Enthusiast Manager. "The Track Pack and Ford Racing FR3 Handling Pack continue that heritage and give our performance customers great ways to have an even sportier experience in the 2010 Mustang GT coupe."

Packaged aimed at performance enthusiasts
Both the 2010 V-6 and GT models feature improved handling, but Team Mustang wanted to create a distinctive option package aimed at performance enthusiasts. Starting with the 2010 GT manual coupe, the engineering team was able to create a package that hits the sweet spot.

The first ingredient was to add a high-performance summer tire, and the 19-inch Pirelli P Zero P255/40ZR-19 proved to be an inspired choice for improved grip. Ford's engineering team then went to work on the underpinnings of the 2010 Mustang GT coupe, using Ford's proven technology from the Shelby GT500 program.

The front and rear stabilizer bars from the 2009 Shelby GT500 complement the Pirelli tires and help balance the Track Pack 2010 Mustang GT coupe front to rear. The struts and shocks were retuned for the increased capability of the new tire and stabilizer bar changes. The engineering team also spent significant time at the track to ensure the Track Pack was rewarding on the track and offered a balance of spirited driving and track prowess.

The roll gradient (how much the car rolls while steering) was reduced nearly 13 percent compared with the base 2010 Mustang GT. Damping was increased by 23 percent in the front and 8 percent in the rear in the low- to mid-speed compared to the 2010 Mustang GT.

"By reducing the roll gradient, the car stays flatter in turns," said Tom Barnes, Vehicle Engineering Manager, 2010 Mustang. "And when the car is flatter, the driver is more in command and more confident in what the car's doing.

"Great handling comes from great control. A driver's control of the vehicle is facilitated by information. This Track Pack communicates to the driver through the tires and suspension so well that is it easy to drive very quickly. It rewards smooth driving, while offering great capacity to cover driver error."

Looking at all areas for improvement
In addition to the hardware changes and extensive tuning, the Ford team also took a more holistic approach to improving the Track Pack Mustang.

"Handling is not just chassis," Barnes said. "Vehicle dynamics - how the Mustang responds under acceleration and braking - is important as well."

The solution from the powertrain part of the equation was to use a 3.73 limited-slip axle with carbon-fiber clutch plates.

"The 3.73 axle allows for a more-responsive Mustang, especially at mid-range speeds," Barnes said. "The carbon-fiber plates allow a very robust architecture in terms of temperature and repeated hard driving on the track."

Performance® Friction brake pads, which better resist brake fade, are used front and rear. Both the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and AdvanceTrac were retuned to complement the advanced capabilities of the new tires and brakes. AdvanceTrac is standard on the 2010 GT coupe and can be operated in any of three modes: On, Off or Sport.

"The Track Pack covers all the bases," Barnes said. "The new tires give the Mustang more grip, we have a more-responsive acceleration, better brake linings that are more consistent over time and the car is tied down better because of the changes to the bars and the shock tuning."

"Track Pack has the grip, the handling and it has the 'go.' And it absolutely can be used as a daily driver. Track Pack offers the best of both worlds - great performance on the track or if you're cruising down the road."

Ford Racing's FR3 Handling Pack features components proven out on the racetrack. Included in the pack are dampers, lowering springs, sway bars and a strut tower brace.

"The FR3 Handling Pack is derived from our extensive experience with the Ford Mustang FR500C competing in the Grand-Am KONI Challenge and FIA GT4," said Andy Slankard, Engineering Supervisor, Ford Racing.

Enhancements from the FR3 Handling Pack include:


Ride height lowered by more than 1 inch
Increased spring rate by about 75 pounds to improve turn in and mid-corner performance
Front and rear sway bars stiffened to eliminate roll
Re-tuned dampers, increasing the compression and rebound

The Track Pack retails for $1,495 while the FR3 Handling Pack retails for $1,335.

Chip Foose builds a 2010 Ford Mustang that you can win

Obvious to anyone who watches TV or reads car magazines, Chip Foose is a talented guy. And he recently got his hands on a new 2010 Mustang on an episode of Spike TV's MuscleCar.

Unlike most all of Foose's creations, however, you can actually register to win this one at PowerBlockTv.com. The Mustang features an Edelbrock supercharger system, Roush body kit, Magnaflow exhaust, Foose wheels and Pirelli tires, Baer brakes, Eibach springs, Bilstein shocks, and a unique paint scheme designed by Foose himself. You can submit an entry to win once a week until October 12.

400 hp 5.0 "Coyote" confirmed for 2010

5.0 is a magical displacement, one that means a lot to the Ford loyalists, and now the designation is going to make a comeback. Many moaned and groaned when the 2010 Mustang was released and retained the 'ol 4.6, but spy shots showing an aluminum engine under the hood of a new Mustang gave hope for the future.

According to Ford Australia's product development director, Russell Christophers, the U.S. team is indeed working on an all-new, aluminum double-overhead cam 5.0-liter V8 – codenamed "Coyote" – with output expected to crest 400 hp and around 400 lb-ft of torque. Christophers told Australia's Drive, "I have seen the performance curves and it is a pretty good engine."

The new 32-valve, 5.0-liter V8 is expected to be fitted to the Mustang and F-150 sometime in 2010, replacing the current 4.6- and 5.4-liter. This will certainly give the new Camaro a little run for it's money.

Dodge Challenger outsells Mustang for month and YTD

Could it be, the perennial best selling pony car for many years has given up the crown to a fairly new "challenger?" All puns aside, it is a fact for the month of February and so far this year.

The Mustang was outsold for the month by 293 units, as the Challenger racked up 3,283cars sold. And the competition is only going to get stiffer, with the new Chevrolet Camaro going into production back on March 16th.

To be fair, part of the reason Mustang sales are slowing down are probably due to the fact that the new, redesigned model is bowing soon. Automakers also typically slow production before they introduce a new model as well.

It will certainly be interesting to see how this all pans out once all three cars are filling up dealer's lots and ushering in the new muscle car era.

Video: 2010 Ford Mustang breaks longest drift record

Drifting is a Japanese sport. Or at least it was. It's only natural that big, V8 powered, rear wheel drive American cars have burst on the scene. They are just great drifting machines.

As if the 2010 Ford Mustang doesn't have enough hype preceding it as it is, one has just claimed the world's longest drift record to boot. Vaughn Gittin Jr. piloted a 2010 GT to the record at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway with a two minute drift taking 6,285 feet, or 1.19 miles to complete.

2010 Ford Mustang to start under $21,000

Keeping in line with a longstanding tradition, the 2010 Ford Mustang will base out lower than it's rival Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger. A base Mustang will run $20,995, a figure that undercuts the Camaro LS at $22,995 and the Challenger SE at $22,545.

The Mustang GT will start at $27,995, compared to the Camaro SS at $30,995 and the Challenger R/T at $30,545. A convertible will run you $5,000 over the cost of the coupe.

Of course the ultimate new Mustang, the Shelby GT500, will cost a little more. It comes in at $46,325.

PRESS RELEASE:

NEW 2010 FORD MUSTANG IS FAST, FUN, AFFORDABLE; PRICE STARTS UNDER $21,000 WITH UNSURPASSED 26 MPG

* The 2010 Ford Mustang features a more sculptured muscular exterior, an upgraded world-class interior, a host of must-have technologies and unsurpassed fuel economy of 26 mpg on the highway, all for the best value at a starting price of $20,995
* The Mustang offers the broadest range of available power in its segment from the 210-horsepower 4.0-liter V-6 to the GT featuring a 4.6-liter V-8, delivering 315 horsepower, up to the Shelby GT500's 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 pumping out 540 horsepower
* Mustang and Shelby GT500 are available as a coupe or convertible. An optional factory-installed glass roof is offered on the V-6 and GT premium models

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 19, 2009 – The fast, fun and affordable legacy that has defined America's favorite muscle car for nearly a half century lives on in the new 2010 Ford Mustang, which incorporates an expert blend of design leadership, performance and technology at an exceptional value.

"More than 9 million customers have made Mustang one of the world's most beloved automotive and cultural icons," said Ken Czubay, Ford's vice president of U.S. Sales and Marketing. "Making sure this modern legend lives up to their expectations has been our driving force to create the best Mustang ever. Not only is this the best Mustang ever, it's also the best bang for the buck for our customers."

Available this spring, the new Mustang features a new exterior and interior design, upgraded materials and a long list of must-have technologies and standard safety equipment – such as Ford's AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control system, all-speed traction control, anti-lock brakes and front and side air bags – for an affordable starting price of $20,995 (excluding destination and delivery) for the V-6 coupe and $25,995 for the convertible. The V-8 powered GT coupe base price is $27,995; the GT convertible starts at $32,995. The Shelby GT500 Coupe has a MSRP of $46,325, while the GT500 Convertible starts at $51,225.

Contenders Chevy Camaro and Dodge Challenger sport base sticker prices ranging from $1,000 to $2,600 more than Mustang.

Unparalleled Design
The new exterior of the Mustang delivers more muscular, athletic styling, with new sheet metal except for the roof, including a refined powerdome hood, new front fenders, a sweeping beltline and a new decklid design. Other exterior notables include new grille and fascia differentiation between the V-6 and GT models, new front and rear fascias, higher wheel arches and new LED sequential taillights.

Mustang's interior is in a class all by itself, from the new one-piece soft touch instrument panel, chrome encircled gauges and a center console design that pampers the shifter for that perfect feel and level of control. Subtle or high-profile, all interior elements are defined by precise ergonomic accuracy and a faithful devotion to craftsmanship that even the most discerning performance car enthusiast will appreciate.

"Attention to detail is the bedrock of the new interior and what sets Mustang miles apart from the competition," said Mustang Design Manager Gary Morales.

Industry Leading Technologies
Mustang further distinguishes itself from the pack with an all-inclusive list of standard and optional industry-leading technologies and safety features, including:

* Ford SYNC® with 911 AssistTM, Vehicle Health Report (VHR), and new Traffic, Directions, and Information services
* Voice-activated Navigation with SIRIUS® Travel LinkTM
* Next-generation ambient interior lighting
* Reverse Camera System
* SOS Post Crash Alert System

Mustang comes standard with Ford's AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control system, which complements the car's standard all-speed traction control and anti-lock braking system. A Sport Mode, available on the GT Premium and Shelby GT500, incorporates a unique calibration of the new AdvanceTrac system, letting the driver enjoy a wider range of Mustang's performance capabilities.

Options Galore
Mustang is America's best-selling convertible, thanks to features like a three-layer weatherproof power top. Mustang V-6 and GT models are available with convertible tops for an additional $5,000.

For a no-matter-the-weather "open" experience, Mustang also offers a factory-installed glass roof option for $1,995 on the V-6 and GT models.

The fixed glass roof is made of two layers of tinted privacy glass with a layer of transparent vinyl in between, which reduces vehicle cool-down time as well as infrared energy and ultraviolet (UV) rays. The roof, for example, filters 90 percent of the sun's heat-generating infrared rays and 96 percent of burn-causing UV rays. A thick polyvinyl butyral layer further filters UV rays and helps muffle wind and traffic noise by as much as five decibels. For added privacy and protection, a manually retractable mesh sun shade comes standard.

Mustang also offers a wide selection of personalization options from the factory as warranty-friendly Genuine Ford Accessories, from exterior stripes to interior appearance features, wheel selections, communication and entertainment systems and more.

Plus, Mustang enthusiasts can now add Performance Packs available from Ford Racing, including a Power Upgrade Pack, Handling Pack, or SuperPack – all under warranty when installed by a Ford dealer.

Fuel Facts
The 2010 Mustang is jam-packed with unprecedented content, yet it weighs approximately 300 pounds less than the competing Camaro and Challenger. This leaner curb weight gives Mustang a competitive leg up in agility and contributes significantly to Mustang's unsurpassed 26 mpg.

Mustang's available engines, including the GT's beefy 4.6-liter V-8, also are designed to use regular 87-octane fuel, allowing customers to save even more money at the pump, without sacrificing performance. Both Camaro and Challenger recommend premium grade gasoline.

Mustang also makes fill-ups more hassle-free with its standard Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel Fuller system, a segment exclusive.

The Shelby GT500
For Mustang lovers who prefer the highest performance, the 2010 Shelby GT500 offers a 5.4-liter supercharged four-valve V-8 engine that pumps out 540 horsepower and 510 ft.-lbs. of torque. Thanks in part to a cold-air intake system, lower-restriction exhaust, new engine calibration and revised gearing, the 2010 Shelby GT500 delivers more power while also increasing fuel efficiency. The GT500 improves its fuel economy by 2 mpg on the highway for a rating of 14 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway. Power is sent to the ground through a short-shift six-speed manual transmission with a limited-slip 3.55 rear axle gear ratio.

New suspension tuning and aerodynamic improvements give the 2010 Shelby GT500 sharper handling, improved body control and better overall vehicle dynamics while still maintaining a good ride and handling balance. Forged and machined 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Goodyear F1 Supercar tires, combined with the revised suspension, gives the car a high level of grip.

New standard features for the 2010 Shelby GT500 include high-end items such as Alcantara® on the heavily bolstered sport seats, steering wheel, shift boot and hand brake; leather stripes stitched into the seats that coordinate with the exterior stripe color; Q-ball shift knob and aluminum interior trim that enhances the Shelby GT500 driving environment.

Both the 2010 Mustang and Shelby GT500 arrive in dealerships this spring.

2010 Mustang Reference Materials
Pricing Guide
Packaging Guide



Standard Equipment on 4.0-liter V-6:

Powertrain/Functional

* 4.0-liter V-6 Engine
* 5-speed Manual Transmission
* Power Vented 4-wheel Disc Brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
* Remote Keyless Entry System
* Rear-window Defroster
* Easy FuelTM Capless Fuel Filler System

Exterior

* LED Sequential Taillamps
* LED High Mounted Stop Lamp
* 17-inch Painted Aluminum Wheels
* Convertible Top (Convertible Model)
* Mini Spare Tire
* Stainless Steel, Single Exhaust
* Complex Reflector Halogen Headlamps
* Dual Power Black Mirrors
* Rear Quarter Mounted Antenna

Interior

* Manual Air Conditioning
* AM/FM Stereo with Single-disc CD Player and Clock
* Audio Input Jack
* Floor Console with Full Armrest and Locking Storage
* Two Covered Cup Holders
* Black Front Floor Mats
* Driver Footrest
* Chrome Accent 4-gauge Instrument Cluster and Register Vents
* Dome Lamp (Coupe Only)
* Lighted Bezel (Convertible Only)
* Two Map Pockets, Back Side of Driver and Passenger Seats
* Cloth Bucket Seats, 4-way Manual Driver, 2-way Manual Passenger (Split-fold Rear Seats on Coupe)
* Tilt Steering Wheel with Cruise Control
* Power One-touch-up/down Driver and Passenger Windows
* Power Locks
* Interior Trunk Release

Safety & Security

* Dual-stage Front Airbags
* Front-seat Side Airbags
* Illuminated Entry
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
* LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren)
* SecuriLock® Passive Anti-theft System
* Personal Safety System®
* AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control
* SOS Post Crash Alert System

Optional Equipment on 4.0-liter V-6:

* Security Package
o Active Anti-theft System
o Wheel Locking Kit

Optional Equipment on 4.0-liter V-6 Premium: Exterior Sport Appearance Package

* Lower Tape Stripe
* Decklid Spoiler

V-6 Pony Package

* 18-inch Polished Aluminum Wheels
* Body-color Exterior Mirrors
* Unique Grille
* Fog Lamps
* Pony Fender Badge
* Auto Headlamps
* Premium Floor Mats with Embroidered Tri-bar Pony Logo
* Decklid Spoiler
* Unique Lower Tape Stripe
* Unique Chrome Exhaust Tip

Electronic Package

* Voice-activated Navigation System with SIRIUS Travel Link™ (Includes 6-month Complimentary Subscription)
* Dual-zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control

Comfort Package

* 6-way Power Passenger Seat
* Heated Front Seats
* Auto-dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass

Security Package

* Active Anti-theft System
* Wheel Locking Kit

* 18-inch Painted Aluminum Wheels
* HID (High-Intensity Discharge) Headlamps, Late Availability
* Glass Roof
* Convertible Boot
* Tape Stripe Delete
* Reverse Camera System

Standard Equipment on GT:

Powertrain/Functional

* 4.6-liter V-8 Engine
* 5-speed Manual Transmission
* Brakes – Power with 4-wheel vented discs
* Remote Keyless Entry
* Rear Window Defroster
* Engine Cover
* Easy Fuel™ Capless Fuel Fuller

Exterior

* LED Sequential Tail Lamps
* 18-inch Wide Spoke Painted Aluminum Wheels
* Black Chrome Pony in Grille
* Auto Headlamps
* Rear Spoiler
* Fog Lamps
* Dual Bright Rolled Exhaust Tips
* Mirrors – Body Color, Dual Power
* Rear Quarter Panel Mounted AM/FM Antenna

Interior

* Air Conditioning – Manual
* Audio – Premium AM/FM stereo w/ Single CD & Clock
* Audio Input Jack
* Console – Full armrest with locking storage
* Two covered cupholders
* Footrest – Driver
* Instrument Cluster – Chrome accent four-gauge cluster and register vents
* Lamps – Center High Mounted Dome (Coupe Only)
* Lighted Bezel (Convertible Only)
* Power Points (2)
* Seats – Cloth Bucket, 2-way Manual Passenger, 4-way Manual Driver
* Steering Wheel – tilt w/ speed control
* Windows/Locks – Power 1-touch Up/Down Driver and Passenger Windows
* Interior Trunk Release

Safety & Security

* Dual Front Air Bags
* Driver/Passenger Side Impact Airbags
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
* LATCH (Lower Anchors & Tethers for Children) System
* SecuriLock® Passive Anti-Theft (PATS)
* Personal Safety System for Driver and front Passenger
* Advance Trac® with Electronic Stability Control® (ESC)
* SOS Post Crash Alert System

Optional Equipment on GT:

* Security Package
o Active Anti-Theft
o Wheel Locking Kit

* 3.73 Rear Axle Package (GT Coupe with Manual Transmission only)
o Performance 3.73 Axle Ratio
o Dual Piston Front Calipers with Performance Brake Pads
o Recalibrated Electronic Stability Control® (ESC)

Optional Equipment on GT Premium:

* Security Package
o Active Anti-Theft
o Wheel Locking Kit

* Comfort Package
o 6-Way Power Passenger Seat
o Heated Front Seats
o Auto-dimming Mirror with Compass

* Electronics Package
o Voice Activated Navigation
o SIRIUS® Travel Link™ with complimentary 6-month subscription (N/A in AK & HI)
o Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control

3.55 Rear Axle (GT Premium Coupe with Manual Transmission only)

3.73 Rear Axle Package (GT Coupe with Manual Transmission only)

* Performance 3.73 Axle Ratio
* Dual Piston Front Calipers with Performance Brake Pads
* Recalibrated Electronic Stability Control® (ESC)

* 18-inch Polished Aluminum Wheels
* 19-inch Bright Machined Aluminum Wheels
* 19-inch Premium Painted Luster Nickel Aluminum Wheels
* Spoiler Delete
* Rear Video Camera (Requires Decklid Spoiler)
* HID Headlamps (Late Availability)
* Req. Security Package, N/A with Daytime Running Lights
* Glass Roof (N/A with Stone Interior)
* Shaker 1000 (N/A with Electronics Package)

Standard Equipment on Shelby GT500:

Mechanical

* Brakes – Power 4-wheel discs with ABS (Brembo four-piston Front Calipers)
* Engine – 5.4-liter Supercharged 4V V8 w/cold-air intake system and low restriction exhaust
* Transmission – Tremec 6-speed Manual w/3.55 rear axle ratio

Safety & Security

* Personal Safety System™ (seat belt pre-tensioners, load limiting retractors, dual stage front air bags, driver seat position sensing & crash severity sensing)
* AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control
* Airbags – Dual Stage Front
* Airbags – Side Impact
* Keyless Entry – Remote
* LATCH (Lower Anchors & Tethers for Children) system
* Lighting – Illuminated Entry
* Anti-Theft Perimeter Alarm (incl. perimeter inclination & intrusion alarms)
* SecuriLock® Passive Anti-Theft (PATS)
* Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
* Advance Trac® Electronic Stability Control® (ESC)

Exterior

* Badges – "Shelby GT500" badging on faux gas cap & "SHELBY" badging on rear decklid
* Exhaust – Dual Stainless Steel with 4-inch Tips
* Headlamps – Quad Reflector w/integral park/turn lamps
* Hood – Aluminum hood (w/ large single heat extractor)
* Fog lamps
* Power Mirrors
* Over-the-top "racing stripes" and "GT500" side stripes
* Rear Spoiler – SHELBY rear decklid
* 18 X 9.5-inch Aluminum Wheels with Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar Tires (P255/45ZR18 Front & 285/40ZR18 Rear ) Convertible Only
* 19 X 9.5-inch Aluminum Wheels with Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar Tires (P255/40ZR19 Front & P285/35ZR19 Rear) Coupe Only

Interior

* Center Console – Armrest with Locking Storage
* Climate Control – Manual
* Two Covered Cupholders
* Door Locks – Power
* Floor Mats – 1st Row w/ Silver perimeter stitching and "GT500" embroidered logo
* Lighting – Ambient Lighting w/MyColor™ 125 color gauge backlighting
* Seats – Leather sport buckets w/ racing stripes coordinated to exterior stripes and Alcantera® accents. Also 6-way Power Driver's Seats with Power Lumbar and adjustable headrest
* Steering Wheel – Tilt Leather and Alcantera® w/ Unique Thumb Pads
* Windows – Power, Driver & Passenger Global Open Controls
* Shifter – Short-throw with unique Q-ball shift knob

Functional

* Shaker 500 System with 8 speakers (AM/FM Stereo/CDx6 MP3 Capable) & Audio Input Jack
* Ford SYNC™
* SIRIUS® Satellite Radio
* Cruise Control
* Easy Fill Capless Fuel Filler
* Auto Headlamps
* Instrument Cluster: 6 gauge instrument cluster SVT graphics; brushed aluminum accent cluster and air registers. Also includes message center with compass
* Pedals: Bright Clutch, Brake and Accelerator
* 2 Power Points
* Interior Trunk Release
* Rear Window Defroster

Optional Equipment on Shelby GT 500:

* Voice Activated Navigation – Dual Zone Automatic
* Temperature Control – Integrated audio and data
* Satellite radio – Park & Play (plays/reads audio and video discs) – Music Jukebox (CD "ripping" capability)
* Shaker 1000 Audio System – AM/FM Stereo w/In-Dash CDx6, MP3 & 10-Speakers (Not available with
* HID Headlamps (late availability)
* Tape Stripes Delete – Top and side stripe delete
* Weathershield Full Vehicle Cover, w/Shelby Script & Cobra Logo

# # #

About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 213,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company's wholly owned brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.