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Ford Mustang     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.         2010 FORD MUSTANG: MORE MUSCULAR, MODERN   New pony badge signals dramatic new exterior design Modern, muscular, seamless design incorporates classic Mustang elements Muscular surface language emphasizes powerful stance, efficient package LOS ANGELES, Nov. 18, 2008 – More muscle.  More motion.  More Mustang.  All of that comes standard on Ford’s 2010 Mustang – which reflects a new design inside and out. “Leaders lead, and that’s what we continue to do with this American icon,” said J Mays, group vice president of Design.  “The 2010 is a Mustang true to its bloodline, with impeccable proportions, honest shapes and beautiful surface language.  It executes the best of Mustang in a dramatic and modern way.” The Mustang design team, led by Chief Designer Doug Gaffka and Design Manager George Saridakis, referenced classic Mustang design cues and developed a thoroughly modern interpretation, giving more “muscle” to the iconic car.  The result is a more athletic-looking Mustang with continuous, flowing lines emanating from highly sculpted surfaces.       2010 Mustang GT Video     This Pony is One Sinewy Steed Look no further than Mustang’s signature pony badge for the essence of the 2010 design.  The badge, which is larger and more chiseled, sits proudly in the upper grille.  “Everything we tried to do with this car’s new exterior design is represented in the new pony,” said Gaffka.  “It tells the whole story.  It’s athletic, aggressive and modern.” From the V-6 to the Shelby GT500, the goal was to make each model appear even more sculpted than its predecessor.   The result is a lineup of iconic cars that maintain their identity in a contemporary way.  Each classic design element – the grille shape, the “hockey stick,’ the hop up into the rear haunch, the quarter-glass window, the three-bar tail lamp, the center-mounted gas cap – is modernized in a way that lends the new car even more presence and character. The aggressive look is enhanced by larger grille openings flanked by slimmer headlamps, which now incorporate integrated turn indicators.   “Modern styling utilizes all of our technical know-how combined with state-of-the-art componentry,” Saridakis said.  “Throughout this Mustang, we’ve introduced modern twists like integrated technology, LED tail lamps and HID head lamps, efficient packaging and better proportions.” The team further enhanced the agile design by stripping away unnecessary clutter.  That included minimizing overhangs, eliminating the rear key-hole cylinder, chamfering the rear corner and simplifying the pedestal spoilers to a more compact design.   The antenna, previously on the front fender, is now much shorter and relocated to the rear of the 2010 Mustang.  The result is a clean, sporty design that looks smart and efficient. The front end on all models is lower and appears wider with strong wheel arches pushing up and out of the muscular fenders.  Dynamic character lines emerging from above the grille sweep rearward into a more powerful, sculptural hood, further expressing Mustang’s potency. The addition of lower front splitters adds to the sporting appearance but are also functional aerodynamic elements improving Mustang’s fuel economy, downforce and overall performance.  An athletic, sinewy design is emphasized by distinctive character lines that grow out of the main body, “as if the sheetmetal has been shrink-wrapped like a skin suit around the muscles and skeleton of the car’s understructure,” Saridakis said. Echoing Mustangs of the past, the main side-character lines – the wind splitter and iconic hockey stick – return with contemporary execution. The 2010 Mustang’s surface forms and linework, particularly the dropping fender line running into the belt-line kick-up and rear haunch, give the impression that the car squats down slightly in an aggressive stance that gives it the appearance of even more muscularity. The team worked to develop a more optimized wrap-around rear-end look as well.  The accelerated taper to the side surfaces, truncated into chamfered corners at the rear, enhance Mustang’s compact appearance while the new two-piece rear fascia amplifies the car’s width and stance by visually reducing the car’s height. Another inherited and distinctly identifiable Mustang cue comes in the form of the tri-bar tail lamps.  The three individual red chambers, each lit sequentially by a single Luxion LED, are separated by two clear vertical back-up elements, ensuring the tri-bar look is recognized in lit or unlit conditions.  The sequential illumination of each chamber is a unique and important characteristic of the 2010 Mustang’s identity. “Front to back, the 2010 Mustang is thoroughly modern in its interpretations of the classic Mustang look,” Gaffka said.  “The proportions are timeless and magnificent.  It is the tightest, most premium race horse we’ve ever done.  And it begs to be driven – hard.”         2010 MUSTANG TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS BODY Construction Unitized welded steel body, aluminum hood Final assembly location Flat Rock, Mich. POWERTRAIN AND CHASSIS ENGINE                                      V-6 V-8 Type 4.0-liter 60-degree V-6 4.6-liter 90-degree V-8 with cold air induction Manufacturing location Cologne, Germany Romeo, Mich. Configuration Iron block and aluminum head Aluminum block and head Intake manifold Composite shell-welded with internal runner pack Composite shell-welded single runner, charge motion control valves Exhaust manifold Cast iron Cast iron Redline 6,100 rpm 6,250 rpm Throttle body 65-mm single-bore electronic 55-mm dual-bore electronic Valvetrain SOHC, 2 valves per cylinder SOHC, 3 valves per cylinder, variable camshaft timing Valve diameter Intake: 46.0 mm Exhaust: 39.0mm Intake: 33.8 mm Exhaust: 37.5 mm Pistons Cast aluminum Hypereutectic aluminum Connecting rods Forged steel Cracked powdered metal with floating wristpins Ignition Distributorless with coil pack Coil-on-plug, high-thread-insert spark plugs Bore x stroke 3.95 x 3.32/100.4 x 84.4 mm 3.55 x 3.54/90.2 x 90.0 mm Displacement 245 cu. in. / 4,009 cc 281 cu. in. / 4,606 cc Compression ratio 9.7:1 9.8:1 Engine control system PCM PCM Horsepower 210 @ 5,300 rpm 315 @ 6,000 rpm - estimated Horsepower per liter 53 68 Torque 240 lb.-ft. @ 3,500 rpm 325 lb.-ft. @ 4,250 rpm  - estimated Recommended fuel 87 octane 87 octane Fuel capacity 16 gallons 16 gallons Fuel injection Electronic returnless sequential Electronic returnless sequential Oil capacity 5 quarts with filter 6 quarts with filter Coolant capacity 12.5 quarts 14.2 quarts DRIVETRAIN Layout Rear-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive TRANSMISSION Standard 5-speed manual (Tremec T-5) 5-speed manual (Tremec 3650) Gear ratios   1st 3.75:1 3.38:1   2nd 2.19:1 2.00:1   3rd 1.41:1 1.32:1   4th 1.00:1 1.00:1   5th 0.72:1 0.68:1   Final Drive 3.31:1 3.55:1 Optional   1st 3.22:1 3.22:1   2nd 2.29:1 2.29:1   3rd 1.54:1 1.54:1   4th 1.00:1 1.00:1   5th 0.71:1 0.71:1   Final Drive 3.31:1  3.31:1  SUSPENSION Front Reverse-L independent MacPherson strut, 28.6-mm tubular stabilizer bar Reverse-L independent MacPherson strut, 34-mm tubular stabilizer bar Rear 3-link solid axle with coil springs and Panhard rod and solid stabilizer bar 3-link solid axle with coil springs, Panhard rod and 20-mm solid stabilizer bar STEERING Type Rack and pinion with power assist Rack and pinion with power assist Ratio 15.7:1 15.7:1 Turning circle curb-to-curb 33.4 ft. 37.7 ft. BRAKES Type Four-wheel power disc brakes with  4-sensor, 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) Four-wheel power disc brakes with  4-sensor, 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) Front 293 (11.5 in) x 30 mm vented disc, twin-piston 43-mm floating aluminum calipers 316 (12.4 in) x 30 mm vented disc, twin-piston 43-mm floating aluminum calipers Rear 300 (11.8 in) x 19 mm vented disc, single piston 43 mm floating iron calipers 300 (11.8 in) x 19 mm vented disc, single piston 43 mm floating iron calipers TIRES AND WHEELS (TYPE, SIZE) Standard P215/60R17 A/S 17 x 7.0-inch painted alum wheels P235/50WR18 A/S 18 x 8.0-inch painted alum wheels Optional 17-inch machined aluminum wheel 18-inch painted aluminum wheel    18-inch polished aluminum wheel P245/45WR18 A/S 18-inch polished aluminum wheels  19-inch machined aluminum wheels 19-inch premium painted aluminum wheels DIMENSIONS (inches unless otherwise noted)             Coupe Convertible EXTERIOR Wheelbase 107.1 107.1 Overall length 188.1 188.1 Overall width 73.9 73.9 Overall height 55.6 56.1 Track, front/rear 62.3 / 62.9 62.3 / 62.9 INTERIOR Seating capacity 4 4 Front headroom 38.5 38.8 Front legroom 42.4 42.4 Front shoulder room 55.3 55.3 Front hip room 53.4 53.4 Rear headroom 34.7 36.5 Rear legroom 29.8 29.8 Rear shoulder room 51.6 45.0 Rear hip room 46.8 45.2 WEIGHTS AND CAPACITIES SAE passenger volume 83.3 cu. ft. 81.0 cu. ft. Cargo volume 13.4 cu. ft. 9.6 cu. ft. Maximum towing capacity (properly equipped) 1,000 lbs. 1,000 lbs. FUEL ECONOMY (city/hwy) 5-speed Automatic 5-speed Manual 4.0-liter V-6 TBD TBD 4.6-liter V-8 TBD TBD BASE CURB WEIGHT (POUNDS) Manual transmission 3,401 estimated 3533 estimated Automatic transmission 3,454 estimated 3,575 estimated Weight distribution (f/r) 54/45 estimated 54/46 estimated Power-to-weight ratio TBD TBD Manual transmission TBD TBD Automatic transmission TBD TBD             PONY GETS NEW LOOK FOR 2010 FORD MUSTANG, HINTS AT MORE CHISELED LOOK OF UPCOMING MODEL       More-muscular, faster-looking Mustang pony emblem enhances grilles on new 2010 models. New Mustang pony badge highlights attention to detail in design of new Mustang, which will be revealed later this year.   DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 27, 2008 – Curious about what the 2010 Ford Mustang looks like? Its new pony badge offers a clue. Like the upcoming restyled Mustang, the new pony is more defined, more muscular and sure to catch the eye of Mustang enthusiasts. “It’s just a faster-looking steed,” said George Saridakis, Design manager for the 2010 Mustang.     A stronger, more dynamic pony badge with defined edges and crisper forms in a subtly toned tinted-chrome finish will charge across the grilles of the V-6 and GT versions of the 2010 Mustang. For the first time, a black-chrome version of the Mustang pony badge will accent the new GT grille. “We wanted to give the Mustang pony a more realistic feel,” said Douglas Gaffka, chief designer for the 2010 Mustang. “We lifted the head to make the pony more proud, tipped the neck into the wind to give it a feeling of greater speed and better balance. “It’s more chiseled and more defined and looks more like a wild horse,” Gaffka added. “It’s more realistic in terms of proportion to an actual Mustang.” Senior Designer Rick Howard spent hours researching images of horses and understanding their appearance in natural, wild settings. That effort, along with his personal riding experience, helped bring forward the design of the Mustang pony badge. Like the Mustang itself, which was revealed at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, the Mustang emblem has a proud heritage. The original Mustang logo was drawn by Phil Clark for the Mustang I. The Mustang logo then was refined for the Mustang II in 1974 by Charles Keresztes, a former member of Hungary’s Olympic equestrian team. The pony continued on the front grille through 1978 when it was replaced by “FORD” in block letters through 1982. The iconic Ford Blue Oval graced the front of Mustangs through 1993. The pony emblem returned in 1994 with some refinements. The logo was updated again in 2005. For Howard and the team, creating the new badge was a labor of love. “We’re very much concerned with detail and precision in our cars at Ford, and that includes the art we do,” Howard said. “We want our Mustang pony badge to be as good as the rest of the car.”       AMERICA’S FAVORITE MUSCLE CAR HITS 9 MILLION MARK; SPECIAL MUSTANG MAKES ITS HOME IN IOWA   AMERICA’S FAVORITE MUSCLE CAR HITS 9 MILLION MARK; SPECIAL MUSTANG MAKES ITS HOME IN IOWA STORY CITY, Iowa, May 6, 2008 – Iowa farmer Thomas Krumm went to his local Ford dealer to order a Mustang GT convertible and unwittingly ordered a piece of history – his Mustang is the 9 millionth built by Ford Motor Company. He discovers that today when he picks up his milestone Mustang at Gookin Ford in Story City, Iowa.   Krumm, a farmer from rural Story City, became interested in Mustangs through his daughter, Rachael, a Mustang enthusiast who saved enough money to buy her first Mustang at age 17. "Having been a Mustang fanatic my entire life, I couldn't be more excited that my dad is receiving the 9 millionth Mustang," said Rachael Krumm, who also is a member of the Iowa National Guard.  "I am thrilled that I get to see his Mustang GT and its cool new features before I leave for Iraq." Mustang is Ford Motor Company's longest-running nameplate.  It was introduced on April 17, 1964 at the New York World's Fair.  "Mustang is an icon, and the 9 millionth Mustang is a milestone we're very proud of," said Fritz Wilke, Mustang Brand Manager.  "So many people have contributed to Mustang's proud 44-year heritage possible – from incredible Mustangs owners and enthusiasts to our partners at AAI where Mustangs are built to Ford's Product Development and Ford Division teams," he said. About the Ford Mustang The Ford Mustang is one of the most widely recognized vehicles in the world.  Today, one of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang.  Mustang sales hit an astounding 419,000 in its first 12 months on the market, and topped the 1 million mark in its first two years, shattering the sales records of any single model in the history of the automobile.  Today, Mustang leads the nearly $1 billion aftermarket parts and accessories industry as the most personalized vehicle of all time, and has been recognized by SEMA as the most accessory-friendly new vehicle. Coming this summer are two special Mustangs – one with a glass roof option and another with an upgraded "Warriors in Pink" package, whose sales help support breast cancer research       BUCKLE UP AND BRACE FOR ACTION, MCQUEEN FANS: MUSTANG BULLITT™ RACES TO THE STREETS IN 2008     More horses:  Featuring the latest in Ford Racing Technology, Bullitt’s 4.6-liter V-8 delivers 315 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Sport-tuned: Modified chassis and suspension improves an already competent and capable chassis to deliver the most balanced Mustang ever. Film-inspired: Dark Highland Green exterior paint calls back the original movie car, while a specially mastered DVD helped Ford engineers deliver an exhaust note that matches the film. Mustang magic:  Bullitt is the latest in a line of special editions that keep Mustang news fresh.  Plus, it delivers on the Mustang tradition of unique products that fit customers’ individual preferences:  a steed for every need. Bottom line:  Bullitt carries on the Mustang tradition of affordable performance with a $31,075 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP).  A limited production run of 7,700 units is planned. SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 6 – Four decades after hitting the big screen and redefining the on-screen car chase, the Ford Mustang Bullitt returns to the streets in 2008, blending the best Mustang ever with the latest Ford Racing technology. This modern classic delivers a balance of power and performance, thanks to special chassis and suspension tweaks as well as the 315 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque that Bullitt delivers through its 4.6-liter V-8 engine.      “The 2008 Mustang Bullitt embodies the true spirit of the 1968 movie car,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development.  “Like the original Bullitt, this car dials the driving dynamics up a notch for Mustang enthusiasts who love the performance, handling and the sweet sound of Ford power that only Mustang can deliver.” The 2008 Bullitt arrives in dealers early next year, with a starting MSRP of $31,075 (including destination and delivery) and limited production of 7,700 units for the U.S. and Canada. The launch of the limited edition 2008 Mustang Bullitt coincides with the 40th anniversary of the release of the Warner Bros. Pictures film that gave the original car its name.  In the movie, legendary actor Steve McQueen drove a Dark Highland Green 1968 Mustang GT that gained cult status among Mustang enthusiasts, thanks to a seven-minute scene that film and car buffs believe defined the modern movie car chase. Bullitt Chassis Delivers a Balance of Performance and Comfort Ford engineers modified the 2008 Mustang Bullitt’s chassis and suspension to fine-tune handling and ensure the extra horsepower and torque from the 4.6-liter V-8 is put to good use.  The live rear axle uses a unique 3.73:1 gear that helps launch the Bullitt with vigor. Stock Mustang GT shocks and struts were swapped out for new units that allowed engineers to dial in a more aggressive driving dynamic while still maintaining the outstanding ride and balance of the base Mustang GT.  A tower-to-tower brace designed specifically for the Bullitt lends additional torsional and lateral stiffness to the chassis for improved cornering and holds a unique serial number for each Bullitt. “The 2008 Mustang Bullitt delivers balanced performance,” said Paul Randle, chief engineer. “Comfort is not compromised for performance.  Performance is on demand.  You can easily take Bullitt from the track to the street and back onto the track with confidence.” The brakes also have been improved versus the base Mustang GT’s.  More aggressive front pads were developed specifically for Bullitt and improve fade resistance and pedal feel.   The 2008 Mustang Bullitt wears unique cast-aluminum Euroflange wheels, offering a modern twist on the original movie car.  The Dark Argent Gray spokes feature a satin finish, while a bright-machined lip completes the look.  Calipers are colored to match the wheel.  The wheels are wrapped in the same P235/50ZR 18 BF Goodrich g-Force T/A KDWS tires used on Mustangs at the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah. Powered by Ford Racing Bullitt packs firepower under the hood.  The 4.6-liter, 3-valve V-8 delivers 315 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 325 pound-feet of torque at 4,250 rpm. Engine calibration is designed to increase throttle response for a snappier acceleration feel.  The redline has been boosted by 250 rpm to 6,500, with top-end speed bumped to 151 miles-per-hour.  Gears are selected via a Tremec 5-speed manual transmission, and the shifter is topped with a polished aluminum shift ball designed specifically for the 2008 Bullitt. The car features the first use of an open-element air filter in a factory-produced, fuel-injected Mustang.  Inspired by Ford Racing, the intake is tucked neatly behind the driver side headlamp, mounted in an air box that was tooled up specifically for the Mustang.  The hood liner was extensively modified to provide a full seal to the air box, ensuring that the engine is fed a steady diet of cooler air. “Colder air reduces intake losses,” said Randle.  “The new cold-air intake has shown a reduction in rise over ambient temperature from 50 degrees down to 17 degrees Fahrenheit.  That equates to more horsepower and more torque in all driving conditions.” Engine performance is further enhanced through the use of an innovative adaptive spark ignition system, new for the 2008 Mustang.   The system can sense, within a few seconds, what type of fuel is being injected into the motor and adjusts the spark to provide maximum torque at any given speed – and as much as 10 pounds-feet more between 1,000 and 4,000 rpm. Bullitt can run on either premium or regular fuel.  Ford recommends premium fuel for optimum performance, but the adaptive spark ignition will adjust the spark to burn regular fuel without damaging the engine.   “With all the improvements we’ve made to the engine and the taller 3.73-to-1 rear gear, the Bullitt will plant you firmly in the driver’s seat when you stand on the throttle.  We’ve seen zero to 60 times drop by up to three tenths of a second,” said Randle.  “There’s also plenty of power on tap at any speed.  The car definitely feels lighter on its feet, and it is.” The custom-designed exhaust system continues Mustang’s traditional use of a true dual-exhaust system with a new H-pipe specifically developed for Bullitt.  The all-new mufflers, featuring larger 3.5-inch chrome tips (versus the 3-inch tips on the standard Mustang GT) are tuned to minimize backpressure, maximize horsepower and provide the Bullitt with its powerful exhaust note. “We wanted to get the exhaust note as close to the original movie car as possible, so we based it on a digitally mastered DVD,” said Randle. “We wanted something that would rumble your heart, literally buzz you – and the Bullitt team delivered.” Capturing the Bullitt’s Undercover Look The original 1968 Mustang’s stealth-like appearance wasn’t necessarily intentional.  In typical Hollywood fashion, the movie crew removed all exterior badges and logos from the car – including the iconic pony badge on the grille. The 2008 Mustang Bullitt calls back the original movie car in painstaking detail – right down to the dark green paint and lack of exterior badges, scoops and spoilers.   The only visible identification is the word “Bullitt” dropped into a gun-sight graphic in the center of the faux gas cap on the decklid.    “The 2008 Mustang Bullitt, like the movie car, is a wolf in sheep’s clothing,” said Doug Gaffka, chief designer.  “Mustang is – and always has been – such an icon that it’s recognizable without the badges.  But Bullitt’s clean exterior doesn’t give away the Ford Racing-inspired power and performance lurking under its skin.” The new Bullitt wears a close match to the movie car’s 1968 Highland Green paint, officially called Dark Highland Green.  This distinctive color has only graced one other Mustang, the 2001 Mustang Bullitt.  Gaffka assures Bullitt enthusiasts that the color will remain an exclusive Mustang Bullitt color.  Non-purists can opt for only one other color – black. The Mustang Bullitt uses the standard Mustang GT’s front fascia.  A new black-mesh grille is devoid of the standard chrome pony and is accented by a satin aluminum strip that represents the chrome grille surround on the 1968 car.  The rear fascia also is shared with the standard Mustang GT and houses Bullitt’s unique dual exhaust tips.  Dark Argent Gray painted brake calipers closely match the wheel spokes, while staying true to the original. Bullitt Interior Delivers Comfort with a Purpose The interior is pure Mustang Bullitt, understated and dressed in Charcoal Black leather and Satin metallic trim.  The centerpiece of the interior is the hand-machined, aluminum swirl dash panel appliqué. “The machined appliqué differentiates the Bullitt from any other Mustang in the line-up,” said Gaffka. “It’s also perfect for the Bullitt.  The graphic presentation brings back the feel of the ‘60s while still staying true to the Mustang’s modern interior design.” Satin aluminum bezels circle the air vents and gauges, complementing a satin aluminum shift ball that replaces the standard leather-wrapped shifter on the Mustang GT.  The pedals wear race-inspired aluminum covers that further reinforce Bullitt’s performance intentions. The interior is graphically clean.  The only identifying marks visible inside Bullitt are the logo and gun-sight graphic mounted in the center of the leather-wrapped steering wheel and the word “Bullitt” embossed into the metal sill plates. The Dark Charcoal leather seats pick up the diamond perforation inserts from the base Mustang GT.  The seats are patterned after those in the Shelby GT500 providing added lumbar and bolster support.  The seats are constructed using the new soy-based foam developed by Ford and introduced on the 2008 Mustang.  The soy foam, made up of 24 percent renewable content, is produced through a process that requires less energy and emits less CO2. Bullitt Pushes Beyond The Bullitt package enhances the Mustang GT Premium package with the following: 3.73:1 Limited Slip Rear Axle Ford Racing Power Pack (cold air induction system) High Performance Calibration Performance Friction Carbon Metallic® front brake pads Ford Racing Strut Tower Brace Sport –tuned suspension (shocks/springs/stabilizer bar) Modified “H” Pipe Dark Grey Brake Calipers 18-inch Euro-Flange Bullitt Wheels with Charcoal Satin Finish 3.5-inch Packed Exhaust Tips Distinct Upper Grille Bullitt emblem on faux fuel cap Black interior with upgraded steering wheel Charcoal Black sport leather seats Unique IP finish (hand-machined aluminum swirl) Satin Aluminum interior accents (ball shifter/sill plate/pedal covers) Standard content also includes: 4.6-liter 3-valve V-8 engine 5-speed manual transmission Auxiliary audio input jack One-touch up-down power windows Power mirrors and door locks Keyless entry Air conditioning Tilt steering wheel Speed control Rear window defroster Four-wheel power disc brakes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Traction Control Seat-mounted side air bags LATCH Personal Safety System® SecuriLock® Tire Pressure Monitoring System Shaker 500 Audio System with six-disc CD player, MP3 and eight speakers Available options include: HID headlamps Shaker 1000 Audio System six-disc CD player, MP3 and 10 speakers  SIRIUS satellite radio Ambient Lighting Active Anti-Theft System Wheel locking kits       FORD ADDS GLASS ROOF OPTION TO MUSTANG LINEUP, MEETING CUSTOMER DESIRE FOR MORE NATURAL LIGHT   “Top” Choice: Mustang now offers customers three roof choices: traditional coupe, convertible and a new factory-installed fixed glass roof. Glass Roof Growth: Production of large sunroofs in North America has increased nearly 200 percent since 2003 and is expected to top more than 2.5 million units by 2013. Affordability: Available as a $1,995 option, the new glass roof allows Mustang customers to let the sun shine in for half the price of moving up from a coupe to a convertible. DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 11, 2007 – Hot on the heels of the new Ford Bullitt Mustang and the new Shelby GT500KR, America’s favorite muscle car drives into its 45th anniversary year sporting a new factory-installed glass roof. The 2009 Ford Glass Roof Mustang provides a third roof option for customers and responds to their growing desire for more natural light. Production of large sunroofs has increased nearly 200 percent in North America since 2003, according to Just-auto. The growth is driven, in part, by consumers’ daily commute time. The number of consumers with commutes lasting more than 60 minutes grew by almost 50 percent between 1990 and 2000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The new glass roof will be available as an option on both the V-6 Mustang and Mustang GT beginning next summer. At $1,995, the new roof provides customers a less expensive option than a convertible, without compromising the coupe’s versatility, headroom or climate-controlled environment. “Mustang is an icon in our product lineup, and we are committed to keeping Mustang news fresh every year,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president, Global Product Development. “As the automotive landscape becomes increasingly competitive, features such as a panoramic glass roof will help differentiate our products from the competition.” Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang, and it remains the best-selling convertible. The new glass roof addresses the fact that 62 percent of buyers in the sports car segment are interested in a sunroof or moonroof on their next vehicle, according to J.D. Power and Associates research. Mustang’s Glass Roof is made of tinted privacy glass, which reduces both infrared rays and vehicle cool-down time by 50 percent. A manual roller blind is built in, allowing owners to further control exposure on sunny days. The specially formulated glass also protects interior fabric material from solar radiation deterioration and discoloration by reducing solar light transmittance. To help improve acoustics and Mustang’s interior quietness, the glass also features a layer of vinyl that reduces noise, vibration and harshness. The glass roof Mustang is built like a coupe and has been developed to maintain the structural integrity of Mustang. The glass itself is safety glass, meaning that it shatters without sharp or jagged edges, like other automotive glass. Glass Roof Mustangs will be assembled at the Automotive Alliance International plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The unique glass is installed at Ford’s adjacent vehicle personalization facility.     Like its coupe and convertible counterparts, the Glass Roof Mustang has endured a battery of tests measuring quality and craftsmanship. During the development phase, production-level prototypes ran through a rigorous prove-out, including various water, air leakage, durability, squeak and rattle and vehicle dynamics tests. Top quality drives the development team – as evidenced by Mustang’s first-in-its segment ranking in the 2007 J.D. Power and Associates IQS, VDS and APEAL studies. “Quality is a continuous process. The whole team is passionate about it, which results in our paying attention to the smallest details,” says Paul Randle, chief nameplate engineer. “Our owners have high expectations, and we always want to meet them – with strong features like this new roof option, quality and performance.” In addition to the new Glass Roof Mustang that goes on sale next summer, two other derivatives join the Mustang V-6 and GT in Ford showrooms early in 2008: The Mustang Bullitt returns to the streets four decades after hitting the Big Screen and features the latest in Ford Racing Technology. Inspired by the original movie car, this modern classic is designed to deliver a perfect balance of power and performance for enthusiasts, delivering 315 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. With limited production planned, Bullitt carries on the Mustang tradition of affordable performance with a $31,075 Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. The Shelby GT500KR arrives in time to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra GT500KR, known as “The King of the Road.” Building on the strong foundation of the Shelby GT500, the KR features a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a Ford Racing Upgrade Pack and a SVT-tuned suspension. It is estimated to deliver 540 horsepower. The Shelby GT500KR carries forward the spirit of the original car – with 1,000 units planned for production. The 2009 model year marks Mustang’s 45th year. Mustang was first introduced in 1964 at the World’s Fair in New York with a price tag of $2,300. Ford sold more than 417,000 Mustangs in its first year. Today, as the car approaches its 45th anniversary, nearly 9 million units have been sold. Internationally, there are more than 250 Mustang enthusiasts clubs – more than any other vehicle – in the United States, Canada, Europe, Asia, South America and Australia. Aside from its legion of loyal fans, Mustang also stands out for safety. The Mustang convertible is the first sports car and first convertible to earn the highest possible safety ratings in all New Car Assessment Ratings test modes performed by the U.S. government. The coupe earned five stars in frontal crash evaluations for both driver and front-seat passenger and in side impact for driver and rollover testing. It earned four stars for side impact for rear-seat passengers.   NEW MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE STANDS ALONE IN ITS CLASS   DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 4, 2007 – The Ford Mustang convertible, the best-selling convertible ever, is now the first specialty sports car in history to earn the highest possible safety ratings in all New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) test modes performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).The iconic 2008 Ford Mustang convertible stands alone as the only convertible of any type that can be called a five-star safety vehicle, having aced all NCAP crash testing and rollover resistance evaluations.   To achieve five stars in all categories, vehicles must earn the highest possible safety ratings in: Frontal crash evaluations for both driver and front-seat passenger Side impact evaluations for both driver and rear-seat passenger directly behind the driver NHTSA's rollover test, a two-tiered evaluation used to gauge a vehicle's resistance to rollover The new Mustang convertible also earned the highest side-impact performance rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).   “The five-star ratings confirm our own analysis of the safety performance of this excellent vehicle,” said Jim Vondale, director, Ford's Automotive Safety Office. “The Mustang convertible is another example of working at all levels to offer a vehicle that is both sporty and safe. It was developed with a dedicated focus on safety, making it the highest rated Mustang ever built."   For 2008, Mustang adds standard side air bags to an already comprehensive safety package. Along with the addition of seat-mounted thorax side air bags, safety features include the Personal Safety System – a suite of restraint technologies designed to tailor their response to the severity of the crash and other factors. The system includes dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, safety belt pretensioners, seat weight sensing system for the passenger seat and crash severity sensing.     A vehicle occupant's best line of defense in crashes remains the safety belt. Ford Motor Company's industry-leading technology, Beltminder, reminds the driver and front-seat passenger to buckle up. The technology has been installed in more than 20 million vehicles. Both NHTSA and IIHS have noted the effectiveness of Beltminder as a significant life-saving technology.   Mustang convertible features a crash-optimized structure designed to help absorb and dissipate crash energy and maintain occupant compartment integrity. Ford designs all of its vehicles with the objective of reducing the risk and severity of injury in a crash. Ford safety engineers and experts use the most advanced computer modeling technology in the industry to ensure its vehicles meet or exceed our stringent internal crashworthiness standards. Ford incorporates an array of other stringent safety testing in the development of its vehicles, including frontal offset, side impact and rear impact.   Mustang remains one of the greatest automotive sales success stories of all time and is America’s best-selling convertible. Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in this country is a Mustang. The 2008 Mustang intends to hold on to that sales leadership with new available features that will add personal appeal, including High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, 18-inch wheels on the V-6 coupe, and an interior ambient lighting system.     MUSTANG ADDS MORE STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES AND PERSONALIZED OPTIONS FOR 2008   Standard Safety. Side air bags are now standard on all Mustang models. Cool New Features. Available interior ambient lighting and HID headlamps add a touch of upscale class. Bold Design. Three new colors and available 18-inch premium wheels on the V-6 coupe enhance Mustang’s bold American style. Shelby Mustang Magic. The 2008 Ford Shelby GT convertible and 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR – the most powerful production Ford Mustang ever produced – complete the modern Shelby Mustang lineup. More Choices. Warriors in Pink Package join Mustang’s extensive lineup. Product Highlights Downloadable PDF Ford Mustang charges into 2008 as the one and only pony car on the streets, and looks to stretch its segment leadership with new features for that personalized look and feel that Mustang enthusiasts love. Mustang remains 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 Mustang remains one of the hottest-selling cars in America. It’s also America’s best-selling convertible. The 2008 Mustang intends to hold on to that sales leadership with new available features that will add personal appeal, including High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps, 18-inch wheels on the V-6 coupe, and an interior ambient lighting system. Three new colors enhance Mustang’s bold, American style while safety improves with the addition of standard side air bags.     Two new Shelby Mustangs are available for 2008 – the 2008 Mustang Shelby GT and Shelby GT500KR. The 2008 Mustang Shelby GT offers consumers a new Vista Blue exterior color with silver stripe, and the choice of two body styles, coupe or convertible. Under the hood, the Shelby GT’s 4.6-liter V-8 engine is modified with Ford Racing Performance Parts and generates 319 horsepower. Coil springs drop the overall ride height by an inch-and-a-half and stiffer dampers and a front swaybar further enhance cornering feel and body control. To mark the 40th Anniversary of the original “King of the Road” Mustang, 2008 sees the return of the Shelby GT500KR. Hailed as the most powerful production Ford Mustang ever produced, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR features an estimated 540-horsepower 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack, 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, short-throw shifter, and unique suspension tuning. Available in spring 2008, the exterior design draws inspiration from the classic Shelby KR Mustangs and features unique carbon composite hood, Shelby-designed 18-inch wheels, and special 40th Anniversary badging and unique striping. Also new for 2008 is a limited-edition Warriors in Pink Mustang – designed exclusively in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. Produced in celebration of Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s 25th Anniversary, the vehicle features unique pink exterior and interior design accents. Sales from the Warriors in Pink edition will help raise funds for Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Highlights include: Pink ribbon and Pony fender badge. Pink ‘Mustang’ rocker tape stripe. Charcoal leather seats and Charcoal floor mats with Pink contrast stitching. Leather-wrapped aluminum spoke steering wheel with Pink contrast stitching. Unique Pony grille with chrome bezel and fog lamps. Mustang comes in both coupe and convertible body styles, V-6 Deluxe, V-6 Premium, GT Deluxe and GT Premium. All Mustangs are built in Flat Rock, Mich., with final assembly of the Shelby GT and GT500KR taking place at the Shelby Automobiles facility in Las Vegas. Design and Equipment Mustang epitomizes pure American muscle. The signature long hood and short rear deck capitalize on more than 40 years of Mustang heritage, as do classic design cues that have defined Mustangs since the 1960s: C-scoops in the sides, three-element taillamps, and a galloping horse badge in the center of the grille. The Mustang’s menacing shark-like nose imparts an attitude not seen since the 1967 model, while jeweled, round headlamps in trapezoidal housings are part of its modern architecture. The car’s aggressive rake gives the design visual motion, while the short overhangs and up to 18-inch wheels and tires anchor the design visually and physically to the road. Mustang continues to offer unique packages for 2008. The Pony Package, available on the V-6 model, first launched in 2006. It features a GT-handling package that includes a larger front stabilizer bar, the addition of a rear stabilizer bar and P235/55ZR17 tires on painted cast-aluminum wheels. Also included are bright, machined rims and unique tri-bar Pony center caps. Further touches include fog lights, Pony front fender badges, lower door tape stripe, carpeted front floor mats with special brushed chrome “Mustang” logos and a rear spoiler. The Mustang GT California Special is available on GT Premium models and includes 18-inch wheels, side scoops, unique tape stripes, rolled bright exhaust tips, black leather trimmed seats with unique “Cal Special” contrasting Dove or Parchment leather inserts, a larger air intake, a chin spoiler (1.5 inches lower than GT), and unique front and rear fascias. An appearance package is available for the Mustang GT featuring rolled exhaust tips, an engine cover with a Pony emblem and a hood scoop. The California Special and GT appearance packages can be ordered separately or combined to give Mustang enthusiasts one of the most expressive Mustang GTs ever offered. Customizable interior to fit any mood Inside, Mustang’s industry-first MyColor™ color-configurable instrument panel offers the ultimate in personalization. Mustang owners can mix and match lighting at the touch of a button to create more than 125 color backgrounds to suit their personalities, moods, outfits or whims. For 2008, Ford also lets Mustang owners color outside the lines with an available interior ambient lighting package. This unique feature offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cupholders with any one of seven colors. The driver or front passenger can choose from red, orange, blue, indigo, violet, green and yellow. Additional modern interior touches mix with Mustang history and heritage. Chrome-ringed air vents are aligned vertically across the dash, precisely in line with the gauges, and the steering wheel has three spokes with a center hub marked by the horse and tricolor bars logo, echoing the design of the 1967 Mustang. Numerous standard features include an auxiliary audio input jack, one-touch up-down power windows, power mirrors, keyless entry and power locks, a heated rear window, interval wipers, air conditioning, speed control and a CD player. Available interior options include SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, heated front seats, voice-activated navigation and a Shaker 1000 premium audio system. Power and Performance Muscular engines infuse Mustang with tire-smoking performance. The 4.6-liter aluminum V-8 has three valve heads and cranks out 300 horsepower. That’s more than 50 percent more power than the small-block, 289-cubic-inch V-8 found in the classic 1964.5 model. The standard engine – a 60-degree, 4.0-liter, single-overhead-cam V-6 – produces 210 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque. Both engines are paired with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an available 5-speed automatic, which provides a unique combination of off-the-line jump and good highway fuel economy. At the front suspension, MacPherson struts with reverse “L” lower control arms deliver comfort. The three-link rear suspension has a lightweight, tubular Panhard rod that provides precise control of the rear axle. This technology stabilizes the rear axle as the wheels move, particularly during hard cornering. The standard four-wheel disc brakes have the biggest rotors and stiffest calipers ever fitted to a mainstream Mustang. Twin-piston aluminum calipers clamp down on 12.4-inch ventilated front brake discs on GT models. In the rear, the brake rotors are 11.8 inches in diameter. A four-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS) with traction control is standard on GT models and available on V-6 models. It uses electronic sensors to constantly monitor road conditions and feed the information to a dedicated control computer that’s capable of determining within milliseconds whether the vehicle is on dry pavement or negotiating a slippery surface. When traction control isn’t desired, drivers can deactivate the system with a button on the instrument panel. Safety and Security The 2008 Mustang adds standard side air bags to an already comprehensive safety package. Along with the addition of seat-mounted thorax side air bags, safety features also include dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, safety belt pretensioners, seat weight sensing system for the passenger seat and crash severity sensing. An optional active anti-theft package offers customers an added level of security. It includes a sensing module to guard against tow-away thefts, an interior motion sensor to detect smash-and-grab break-ins, a separate alarm sounder — in addition to the vehicle horn — to thwart thieves trying to disable the horn, and a high-capacity, 60-ampere-hour battery that sounds the alarm longer. Major Features and Options V-6 Deluxe: Auxiliary audio input jack; One-touch up-down power windows; Power mirrors and door locks; Keyless entry; air conditioning; AM/FM audio system with single CD; Tilt steering wheel; Speed control; Rear window defroster; Stainless steel exhaust; 16-inch wheels; Four-wheel power disc brakes; Cloth bucket seats with 50/50 split-fold rear on coupe models; Seat-mounted side air bags; LATCH; Personal Safety System®; SecuriLock®; and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. V-6 Premium adds: 16-inch, painted bright machined-aluminum wheels with chrome spinner; Shaker 500 audio system with six-disc CD changer and MP3 capability; Six-way power-adjustable driver seat. GT Deluxe adds: 4.6-liter, 3-valve, V-8 engine; ABS with traction control; Stainless steel dual exhaust; Front fog lamps in grille; Complex reflector halogen headlamps with integral turn signals; Rear spoiler; Performance tires with 17-inch, painted cast-aluminum wheels; and AM/FM audio system with single CD. GT Premium adds: Shaker 500 audio system with six-disc CD player; and Aberdeen leather-trimmed, Embossed sport bucket seats. Options include: Ambient interior lighting; GT California Special Package; GT Appearance Package; Comfort Group; Shaker 1000 premium audio system; SIRIUS® Satellite Radio; Touch-screen navigation system; V-6 Pony Package; Interior Upgrade Package with satin-aluminum trim or dark aluminum trim and MyColor custom instrument panel; Sport Interior Appearance Package; Premier Trim with Color Accent Package, Sport Exterior Appearance Package; Five-speed automatic transmission; Two styles of 18-inch, cast-aluminum wheels; Active anti-theft system. Milestones 1964 Mustang introduced April 17 at World’s Fair in New York 1964 250,000th Mustang sold 1965 Mustang becomes the most successful new car by selling 418,812 units in its first model year 1966 One millionth Mustang rolls off the line at Dearborn Assembly plant in Michigan 1967 Mustang 390 GT wins Cars magazine’s “Top Performance Car of the Year” 1974 Mustang II wins Motor Trend’s “Car of the Year” award 1983 The California Highway Patrol purchases 400 Mustangs to help troopers keep pace with high-speed pursuits 1983 Mustang SVO introduced as 1984 model 1993 First-generation SVT Mustang Cobra introduced with a 5.0-liter V-8 producing 235 horsepower 1995 SVT Mustang Cobra R model produces 300 horsepower from its 5.8-liter V-8 2003 With a 4.6-liter supercharged V-8, SVT Mustang Cobra offers 390 horsepower 2004 Mustang celebrates its 40th anniversary with a special edition and a concept car at the North American International Auto Show 2005 All-new platform and clean-sheet design make Mustang faster, safer, more agile and better-looking than ever 2006 The modern Shelby Mustang lineup is born with the debut of the 2007 Shelby GT500 coupe and convertible 2006 Ford, Carroll Shelby, and Ford Racing joined forces to create a retail version of the Shelby GT-H Hertz rental car called the Shelby GT for the 2007 model year 2007 Ford Mustang receives top honors as Best Midsize Sporty Car in 2007 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS) 2007 Celebrating the fortieth anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra GT500KR, Ford and Shelby collaborate on and debut a new ‘King of the Road’ Mustang with the 2008 Shelby GT500KR     FORD, LEAR TO LAUNCH INDUSTRY'S FIRST SOY BASED SEAT FOAM IN 2008 FORD MUSTANG   Ford Motor Company and Lear Corporation have joined forces to produce seat foam made from soy-based materials. The first application will appear in the 2008 Ford Mustang.     Ford has a rich history in incorporating soy-based materials into its products that dates back to the Model T. Ford’s industry-leading work with soy-foams was showcased in its award-winning Model U concept, which featured soy-based seat cushions and soy-based resin composite tailgate.     Environmental advantages of soy-foam include; a reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions compared to the current petroleum-based material, lower energy to produce, up to 24 percent renewable content, and a reduction of dependency on volatile energy markets.     DEARBORN, Mich., July 12 – Ford Motor Company [NYSE:F] and Lear Corporation [NYSE: LEA] will mark an automotive milestone in August when production of soy-based foam for seats begins in the 2008 model year Ford Mustang.   America’s beloved pony car will use the industry’s first soy-based flexible foam in the seat backs and seat cushions beginning in August at the Auto Alliance International factory in Flat Rock, Michigan, home of the Ford Mustang.   Ford has a rich history in incorporating soy based materials into its products. The Model T, for example, once contained 60 pounds of soybeans in its paint and molded plastic parts. Ford again showcased its industry-leading work with soy-foams in 2003 on the Model U concept, which featured soy-based seat cushions as well as a soy-based resin composite tailgate.   “Our technical team had to overcome several significant hurdles to bring this environmentally responsible technology to production,” said Gerhard Schmidt, vice president of Research & Advanced Engineering at Ford Motor Company. “We are pleased that our diligent efforts in developing this technology have resulted in the production of soy-foam for the Ford Mustang.”   Ford was the first automaker in the world to demonstrate that soy-based polyols could be used at high percentage levels to make foam capable of meeting or exceeding automotive requirements. In 2004, Ford and Lear formed a partnership to commercialize soy-foam applications, with initial work concentrating on the molding of headrest and armrest components.   Lear is a leader in the area of environmental systems for automotive seating with industry firsts, such as the use of expanded polypropylene and polyethylene materials. These materials are used in place of traditional polyurethane foam which offers lower mass and is 100 percent recyclable.   “Using renewable resources is an important means to supplying automotive products that improve environmental impact,” said Ray Scott, senior vice president and president of Lear’s Seating Systems Division. “This also helps in reducing the amount of pollution in the production of materials for automotive use. Ford Motor Company and Lear Corporation are able to bring this product to market ahead of our competitors due largely to our collaborative work with in the area of ‘Green’ technology.”   The environmental advantages of soy-foam include: a reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions when compared to current petroleum-based material, lower energy required to produce the material, up to 24 percent renewable content, and a reduction of dependence on volatile energy markets.   Ford and Lear collaborated with the United Soybean Board - New Uses Committee (a group of 64 farmers and agriculture industry leaders), Urethane Soy Systems Company, Bayer Corporation and Renosol Corporation on soy-foam development.   Friendlier to the Environment   “Soy is a very green, renewable resource,” says Debbie Mielewski, technical leader for Ford’s Materials Research & Advanced Engineering Department. “Using soy-based foam gives us the opportunity to conserve natural resources and reduce our environmental footprint.”   Most automotive manufacturers today use 100 percent petroleum-based polyol foam. Each vehicle produced today contains an average of 30 pounds of petroleum-based foam. The total annual worldwide market for the foam is 9 billion pounds. Milewski says auto manufacturers research and development of renewable, more environmentally friendly materials to produce the foam, could have a significant environmental impact.   About 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 about 260,000 employees and about 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 products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.     About Lear Corporation   Lear Corporation is one of the world's largest suppliers of automotive seating systems, electronic products and electrical distribution systems. Lear's world-class products are designed, engineered and manufactured by a diverse team of more than 90,000 employees at 236 facilities in 33 countries. Lear's headquarters are in Southfield , Michigan . Lear is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol [LEA]. Further information about Lear is available on the Internet at http://www.lear.com.             Ford Mustang   Sneek Peak: 2009 Ford Mustang   Jun 14, 2007 11:33 Shelby Automobiles and Scott Drake Enterprises Announce Performance Parts Company for New Mustangs LAS VEGAS --(Business Wire)-- Jun. 14, 2007 A new performance parts business formed by Shelby Automobiles(TM) and Scott Drake Enterprises, Inc. will be introduced at the 33rd Annual Mid-America Ford Performance and Shelby Meet on June 14, 2007. The new company, called Shelby Performance Parts, LLC will offer a complete line of products to turn up the wick on 2005 and newer Ford Mustangs, Shelby GT's and Shelby GT500's. Many of the key components from Shelby's partnership with Ford Racing, which is demonstrated in the new "Super Snake" package for Ford Shelby GT500, will be at the event. "Genuine Shelby parts will pump up the capabilities of any contemporary Ford or Shelby Mustang," said Amy Boylan, Shelby Performance Parts Co-Founder. "The aggressive suspension and engine packages are taken from lessons learned during development of Ford Shelby cars. Working with Scott Drake Enterprises, we developed components and packages that will power these cars to the front of the pack." Packages available from the company will include newly-developed enhancements to the handling, styling and power of all current generation V6 and V8 Ford Mustangs and Shelby's. Individual components will include upgraded brakes, supercharger packages, suspension components and cosmetic pieces such as hoods and fascias exclusively designed at Shelby Automobiles. Engine tuning options will range from 300 HP (with warranty) for the V6 Mustang to over 725 HP from the 5.4L V8 (without warranty). Shelby Performance Parts will offer the Shelby CS6 and Shelby GT500 40th anniversary packages, as well as clothing and accessories. Some of those components are part of the new Shelby GT500 "Super Snake" package for the 2007 and 2008 Ford Shelby GT500. The prototype hot rod Shelby will be on display at the Shelby rig throughout the event. "We're announcing Shelby Performance Parts at the Mid-America Ford and Performance Meet because the enthusiasts who attend are always seeking a new competitive edge," added Scott Drake, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Shelby Performance Parts. "Our goal is to give enthusiasts more ways to enjoy their pony cars. By combining the experience at Scott Drake Enterprises with the performance expertise at Shelby Automobiles, we believe Shelby Performance Parts will become a hot spot for serious performance fanatics." The longest-running, multi-faceted event in the world, the Mid-America Ford Performance and Shelby Meet includes a broad range of activities including drag racing, a cruise night, road racing exhibitions, a car show and banquet. Several stock and modified Shelby's will be at the event headquarters, which is the Tulsa Marriott located just south of I-44 at the Lewis Avenue exit. Factory test drivers will also demonstrate products at the Hallett Motor Raceway road course and Tulsa Raceway drag strip during the four day event. Parts are now available exclusively at http://www.shelbyperformanceparts.com or by calling (702) 405-3500. Super Snake packages will be available from Shelby Autos and Shelby Performance Parts beginning in late summer 2007; those interested in adding it to their Shelby GT500 can contact the factory at (702) 942-7325. About Scott Drake Enterprises Featuring over 7500 quality products, Scott Drake Enterprises, Inc., is the world's largest manufacturer of reproduction parts for classic Mustangs. The company's products are only available through popular Mustang parts retailers and distributors, along with restoration shops. Each part has been painstakingly designed, engineered and tested to provide the best fit, durability and quality available. More information is available at http://www.scottdrake.net. About Shelby Automobiles Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. The company manufactures authentic continuation Cobras, including the 427 S/C, 289 FIA and 289 street car component vehicles. The company has partnered with Ford Motor Company to build the Shelby GT, Shelby GT500 and Shelby GT-H, which are based on the current Mustang. For more information about Shelby Automobiles, visit http://www.shelbyautos.com. Shelby Automobiles, Inc. Scott Black, 214-520-3430 sblack@timepiecepr.com     Update:  SHELBY AUTOS AND FORD RACING TO BUILD 600+ HP STREET LEGAL SHELBY GT500 "SUPER SNAKES"   Scott Black Shelby Automobiles, Inc. (214) 520-3430 sblack@timepiecepr.com Whitney E. Drake Ford Motor Company (313) 323-8564 wdrake@ford.com   Las Vegas – April 27, 2007 – Shelby Automobiles will use newly-developed Ford Racing GT500 performance packs to help transform a limited number of 2007 and 2008 Ford Shelby GT500’s into fire breathing “Super Snake” coupes. The Super Snake post-title package will include enhancements to the Ford Shelby GT500’s handling, styling and power; tuning options will range from a warranted 600 HP V8 to over 725 HP (unwarranted). Only a limited number of Super Snakes will be built per model year at the Shelby Automobiles facility in Las Vegas beginning in late 2007. “My team at Shelby Automobiles is always working on new ways to build better performing cars” said Carroll Shelby. “I told them that I wanted to build a vehicle that could blow the doors off of most anything on the planet. By partnering with Ford Racing, we’re giving enthusiasts a Mustang with that level of performance.” Working together at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway and in Dearborn, Ford Racing and Team Shelby developed the aggressive suspension and engine package specifically for the car.     “Mustang enthusiasts are demanding more from both Ford Racing and Shelby Autos” said Jamie Allison, Manager of Ford Racing Performance Group. “The GT500 Super Snake package, with its higher horsepower levels and balanced track-inspired tuning, satisfies those demands and then some … in a uniquely Ford – Shelby way.”   In 1967, Shelby American built one 427-powered GT500 “Super Snake” for Mel Burns Ford. Carroll Shelby drove it at the Goodyear test track for tire promotion film production. That car reached lap speeds of over 150 mph and a top speed of 170 mph. The new Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake will be equally potent. “The name ‘Super Snake’ is legendary because the one that Shelby built was the pinnacle of muscle cars in 1967,” added Amy Boylan, president of Shelby Automobiles. “We’re bringing that concept forward 40 years for customers who own a Ford Shelby GT500. We’ll give their car amazing new capabilities.”   Ford Racing and Team Shelby developed the GT500 Super Snake package which will include: Ford Racing Supercharger upgrade kit (SuperPack 600) producing over 600 horsepower and 590 ft.-lbs. of torque 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio Ford Racing performance exhaust system Ford Racing Handling Pack offering unique performance suspension tuning including Dynamic adjustable dampers, lowering springs, tuned stabilizer bars, and front strut tower brace Shelby-designed Alcoa 20-inch wheels Ford Racing short-throw shifter Baer 6 piston brakes with Shelby cast calipers and larger rotors Front brake cooling ducts Unique carbon composite hood featuring classic Shelby design ‘Shelby’ lettering across the front edge of hood and rear decklid 'Super Snake' vehicle badging Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests, floor mats and other Shelby designed components Official Shelby CSM dash plate In addition, while the full Super Snake package will be available exclusively through Shelby Automobiles, many of the products comprising the Super Snake package will be available from Shelby Automobiles and Ford Racing starting in June. About 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 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com. For more information regarding Ford Racing performance packs, visit www.fordracingparts.com. About Shelby Automobiles, Inc. Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. The company manufactures authentic continuation Cobras, including the 427 S/C, 289 FIA and 289 street car component vehicles. The company has partnered with Ford Motor Company to build the Shelby GT, Shelby GT500 and Shelby GT-H, which are based on the current Mustang. For more information about Shelby Automobiles, visit www.shelbyautos.com.     Update 4/19/07: NEW LIMITED-EDITION 2007 FORD SHELBY GT500 OFFERS MUSTANG ENTHUSIASTS A CHANCE TO HIT THE REDLINE   Production of limited-edition Red Stripe Appearance Package for 2007 Shelby GT500 to begin in May. Special package includes unique exterior striping and badges, Red and Black leather seating, special interior trim and logos and branded Shelby GT500 car cover. 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 tops in segment quality, says RDA Group research—92 percent of owners would definitely recommend the vehicle to family or friends.   DEARBORN, Mich., April 19, 2007 – Even with demand for the most muscular Mustang ever – the Ford Shelby GT500 – at a record high, Ford is cranking up additional interest with a new, limited-edition package that adds unique visual appeal to the Shelby GT500. Enter the "Red Stripe Appearance Package," to be available beginning in May. The Ford Shelby GT500 is the most powerful Mustang on the road today and arguably one of the most successful projects from Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) in terms of performance, excitement and, importantly, quality.   In fact, early indicators show the Shelby GT500 is a quality standout. In the most recent Global Quality Research System (GQRS) study from RDA Group, an independent research company based in Bloomfield Hills, Mi., the Shelby GT500 earned praise as the highest-quality Mustang model, with the fewest “things gone wrong” in the first three months of ownership.   The Mustang line scores above the segment average in quality, according to the GQRS study, and the Shelby GT500 specifically scored the top result in the “sports car” segment. “The unmatched quality and power of the latest Mustang masterpiece explains why 9 out of 10 owners are completely satisfied with their overall ownership experience,” the April 2007 RDA Group report concluded.   New Limited-Edition Shelby GT500 Package to be Available Beginning in May The new Red Stripe Appearance Package will be available on any new 2007 Shelby GT500 Coupe with either White or Black exterior paint. Included in the special-edition package are Bright Red overbody and bodyside stripes, a Red and Black leather interior, unique red-accent exterior badges, including red-tinted Cobra emblems in the grille, fenders, and in the faux gas cap on the rear panel. Even the "SHELBY" letters on the decklid feature red accents.   The Red Stripe Appearance Package also adds unique new premium floor mats with a Red and Silver embroidered "Cobra Snake" logo, plus a fitted Shelby GT500-branded car cover.   The appearance package carries an MSRP of $1,650 and will be available from early May through late June, marking the end of the 2007 model run.   "The red package is all about exclusivity," said Robert Parker, Ford’s Car Marketing manager. "Our Mustang customers are eager to buy unique vehicles like the Shelby GT500 and will certainly appreciate the opportunity for something even more exclusive, made in an even more limited number. These are great customers and very passionate. I’m glad we can continue to deliver what they want.”   Shelby GT500 is among the Most Successful Performance Mustangs Ever Enthusiasm doesn't begin to describe the ongoing demand for the Ford Shelby GT500. In the hyper-competitive auto market where supply routinely surpasses demand, the Shelby GT500 still has a long waiting list of buyers.   The Shelby GT500 was created by racing legend Carroll Shelby and Ford SVT and is a modern interpretation of the classic Shelby Mustang of the 1960s. Beneath the hood of every GT500 – including the new Red model – is a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 engine officially rated at 500 hp. A 6-speed manual gearbox features evenly spaced gears that help provide a sharp, lively driving experience on both road and track.   In addition to the engine upgrades, Ford’s SVT engineers retuned and upgraded key Mustang chassis components. Improvements include revised shocks, spring rates and upgraded stabilizer bars that help the Ford Shelby GT500 maneuver with authority.   The GT500's unique design features include wide upper and lower fascia openings with a functional air splitter. On either side, slanting headlamp openings add to the dramatic front appearance. The carefully tailored hood has heat extractors protruding near the leading edge, combining to provide improved airflow and aerodynamics.   The MSRP of a 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 starts at $41,675.     Update: MORE MUSTANG POWER: FORD SHELBY GT500KR ‘KING OF THE ROAD’ RETURNS IN 2008   2008 Shelby GT500KR     Celebrating the fortieth anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra GT500KR, Ford and Shelby collaborate on a new ‘King of the Road’ Mustang with the 2008 Shelby GT500KR.   Shelby GT500KR features an estimated 540-hp 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 with a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack, 3.73:1 rear axle ratio, short-throw shifter, and unique suspension tuning.   Exterior design draws inspiration from the classic Shelby KR Mustangs and features unique carbon composite hood, wheels, and special 40th Anniversary badging and unique striping.   Shelby GT500KR arrives in spring 2008 in an exclusive run of only 1000 units.   DEARBORN, Mich., March 30 - Ford and Shelby Automobiles are at it again, this time in celebration of the fortieth anniversary of the 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR. To be unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR—the most powerful Mustang to date—will once again mark Mustang as ‘King of the Road.’ “I’m proud to once again be a part of an historical moment, bringing back the ‘King of the Road’ Mustang, and collaborating with Ford SVT and Ford Racing” said Carroll Shelby. “I’m committed to continuously upping the ante when it comes to performance, and it’s great to be doing it with Ford.” “The return of the Shelby GT500KR further establishes Mustang as the true king of the pony car segment,” said Robert Parker, manager of Ford Car Brand. “With the unveiling of the new KR we are staying true to the promise we made our loyal Mustang fans to continue Mustang’s prowess by bringing new, exciting and more powerful Mustangs to market.”     Forty years ago, at the 1967 New York Auto Show, Ford introduced the most powerful Shelby Mustang ever. Like every Mustang that bore the name ‘Shelby,’ the GT500KR carries with it its own unique story. The 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500KR was a mid-year introduction, based on the 1968 Shelby GT500. Ford added ‘Cobra’ to the Shelby’s moniker to help usher in the beginning of a new performance era at the company. The Cobra name referred to the new 428 Cobra Jet V-8 that was planted under the KR’s custom fiberglass hood. It was the engine that would once again vault the Mustang to the head of the pack. Ford conservatively rated the 428 CJ at 335-horsepower, but in reality it made more than 400-horsepower and 440 pounds-feet of torque. The KR model was also equipped with a modified suspension and was offered both in fastback and convertible models. Ford dealers sold 1,570 GT500KR models in 1968, 1053 fastbacks and 517 convertibles. While the name ‘King of the Road’ may have been the perfect fit for the world’s most powerful Mustang, it also provided Shelby the chance to steal the thunder from cross-town rival General Motors. As the legend goes, Shelby learned that GM was planning to introduce a high-performance model and call it ‘King of the Road.’ Since he had always wanted to use the name, and as one to never miss an opportunity, Shelby set his organization in gear, registering the name and designing new badging for the Cobra Jet-powered Mustang, christening it the GT500KR, and bringing Ford’s ‘King of the Road’ to market before GM ever got a chance to apply the name to their product. Thoroughbred Pedigree Just like its 1968 namesake, the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR builds on the strong foundation of the Shelby GT500. Packing 40 more horses under its custom-designed carbon composite hood, the GT500KR is the most powerful production Ford Mustang ever produced. The modern Shelby Mustang line-up started with the 2007 Shelby GT500 coupe and convertible. With the recent launch of the 2007 Shelby GT, the 2008 Shelby GT500KR becomes the third production high-performance Mustang brought to market through the relationship of Shelby Automobiles and Ford. Ford and Shelby Automobiles also partnered up with Hertz to produce a special limited run of 500 Shelby GT-H “rent-a-racer” Mustangs available only for rent. The 2007 Shelby GT500 has been one of the most successful vehicle programs in the 14-year history of Ford Special Vehicle Team (SVT) and that success has opened the door for more performance collaborations with Shelby Automobiles and Ford Racing. Working together, these three performance powerhouses are driving Mustang momentum on the street and on the racetrack. Dealers cannot keep the cars on their lots, customers are clamoring for more, and racers are bringing home championships. Shelby Mustangs have already achieved some impressive highlights showcasing an enthusiast demand that is unmatched in the business: The first 2007 Shelby GT500 available to the public sold for $600,000 dollars at the 2006 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Scottsdale, AZ benefiting the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation. 2007 Shelby GT VIN#1 also went for $600,000 at charity auction, this time at the 2007 Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction (and the winning bidder also took the opportunity to purchase VIN#2 at MSRP). Shelby GT-H coupes auctioned off to Ford dealers after completion of Hertz rental duty consistently average $50,000, with high auction bids of $90,000. The Shelby GT500KR will be produced in an exclusive run of 1000 units and will begin arriving in Ford dealers in the spring of 2008. Crowning the New “King of the Road” Doug Gaffka, Ford SVT chief designer, and his team worked closely with Carroll Shelby and the Shelby team to make certain the new KR was crafted in the spirit of the original Shelby muscle car. “This was a great effort between Ford and Shelby Automobiles,” said Gaffka. “The Shelby team and I were in constant contact melding Carroll’s classic design cues with some modern concepts and ideas and finessing them into the design of the new KR.” Gary Davis, vice president of production and product development for Shelby Automobiles, played a key role in defining the look of the custom designed carbon composite hood for the GT500KR. His knowledge of the original GT500KR helped sculpt 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. The composite front valance houses a pair of chrome-trimmed, functional brake ducts to cool the large 14-inch, vented Brembo front brakes. Side stripes are true to the original KR right down to the font used for the ‘GT500KR’ lettering, while the classic LeMans-style striping that races down the center of the car has been deleted between the leading forward edge of the hood scoops and the front of the hood, accenting the scoops and giving the KR its distinctive face. “That was Shelby’s idea,” said Gaffka. “It’s a special touch that adds some down-the-road differentiation. There will be no doubt that it’s a ‘King of the Road’ Mustang that’s filling up your rearview mirrors.” The show car wears exclusive, Shelby-designed 20-inch, forged, polished aluminum wheels with special custom center caps, mounted on Pirelli rubber. Production models will arrive with an 18-inch version of the design. Each KR model is identified by special 40th Anniversary KR badges 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. The KR’s 5.4-liter V-8 Gets the Royal Treatment Just like its namesake, the 2008 ‘King of the Road’ packs a walloping dose of Ford performance power under its massive composite hood scoops. The Ford SVT-engineered 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 is treated to a Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack that boosts horsepower to an estimated 540 and torque to 510 ft.-lbs., thanks to revised ignition and throttle calibration and a cold air intake system that replaces the stock unit. Calibration modifications include advancing the ignition timing as well as re-mapping of 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, upgraded from the standard GT500’s 3.31:1. Gear selection is courtesy of an all-new Ford Racing short-throw shifter making its debut on the KR. Topped with a white ball, the new shifter is 25 percent shorter than the unit on the GT500 providing for crisper, sharper shifts. Ford SVT, Ford Racing and Team Shelby worked together to develop the KR’s suspension tuning. Based on initial work by Ford Racing and the team at Shelby, often at Shelby’s own facility on the grounds of Las Vegas Motor Speedway, Ford SVT chassis engineers will apply fine tuning techniques to prepare it for the streets. “The production Shelby GT500 was maximized to deliver the perfect balance between ride and handling,” said Jamal Hameedi, chief nameplate engineer, Ford SVT. “In that same ride versus handling continuum, the KR will lean heavier towards all-out handling while still making it drivable on the street.” Chassis engineers worked closely with the engine department in a holistic approach to the development of the KR, tuning the suspension to best optimize the engine enhancements. “We aren’t fixing our attention on one or two attributes, but working on the vehicle as a whole,” stated Gary Patterson, vice president of operations for Shelby Automobiles. “The throttle response, power delivery, exhaust note, and handling should all gel together to deliver a total driving experience.” The GT500KR will feature unique spring rates, dampers, stabilizer bars, and strut tower brace, all designed specifically for the KR, to deliver the precision handling package. Mustang Momentum Cannot be Stopped Unwilling to wait for the impending pony car war to heat up, Ford is extending Mustang’s leadership position by feeding the enthusiast demand for more models, features, performance parts, and special editions. Ford has committed to at least one new Mustang ‘feature’ vehicle per year. For 2007, it is the Shelby GT, and for 2008, there will be at least two including the Shelby GT500KR and the previously announced Mustang Bullitt. Ford’s ‘Steed for Every Need’ strategy currently offers four horsepower options for Mustang, with pricing from $19,995 for a 240-hp V-6 Mustang coupe to $46,500 for a 500-hp Shelby GT500 convertible. Ford has also introduced several special packages on Mustang further increasing its unique offerings, including the Pony Package and the California Special. In addition, Ford Racing offers a complete catalog of performance parts for Mustang fans, from custom wheels and exhausts to the complete, turn-key Ford Racing Mustang FR500C race car. As a result, Ford offers Mustang enthusiasts the ability to buy, modify and drive the steed that perfectly fits their need. About 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 280,000 employees and more than 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo, Aston Martin and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com. About Shelby Automobiles, Inc. Founded by legend Carroll Shelby, Shelby Automobiles, Inc., manufactures and markets performance vehicles and related products. The company manufactures authentic continuation Cobras, including the 427 S/C, 289 FIA and 289 street car component vehicles. In 2007, the company partnered with Ford Motor Company to launch the new Shelby GT, which is based on the Mustang. For more information about Shelby Automobiles and to see the build of a 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR, visit www.shelbyautos.com. 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR – Specifications and Design Highlights   5.4-liter supercharged V-8 producing an estimated 540-horsepower and 510 ft.-lbs. of torque Ford Racing Power Upgrade Pack featuring revised calibration and cold air intake system 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio Ford Racing performance exhaust system Unique performance suspension tuning: springs, dampers, and stabilizer bars Shelby-designed ‘GT500KR’ 20-inch wheels (18-inch version for production) Ford Racing short-throw shifter and front strut tower brace Unique carbon composite hood featuring classic Shelby ‘KR’ design Front brake cooling ducts ‘Shelby’ lettering across the front edge of hood and rear decklid 40th Anniversary badges on the front quarter panels Carroll Shelby signature embroidered headrests and floor mats Official Shelby CSM 40th Anniversary GT500KR dash plate   NEW 2007 FORD SHELBY GT BEGINS PRODUCTION; FIRST CAR TO BE AUCTIONED AT BARRETT-JACKSON   The new Ford Shelby GT is the third model in the modern Shelby Mustang portfolio, joining the 500-horsepower Ford Shelby GT500 and Hertz rental special, Shelby GT-H.   The 2007 Ford Shelby GT will be priced a starting MSRP of $36,970.   The first production-built Shelby GT, CSM No. 07SGT0001 will go over the auction block in support of the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Collector Car Event on Saturday, January 20th.   Ford Shelby Mustangs have proven extremely desirable: The first publicly available Shelby GT500 sold for $600,000 in January 2006, the first Shelby GT-H sold to the public commanded $250,000 in late July, and Shelby GT-Hs coming off Hertz rental duty are selling for $68,000-$90,000 at auction.   Carroll Shelby and the first production 2007 Ford Shelby GT   LAS VEGAS, Dec.22, 2006 – The first Ford Shelby GT CSM No. 07SGT0001 will fire up its engine and drive out of the Shelby Automobiles build center in Las Vegas in celebration of the start of production of the third model in the modern Ford Shelby Mustang portfolio. The Shelby GT features a 4.6-liter V-8, classic Shelby design cues, and performance modifications and will be priced at $36,970 MSRP including applicable taxes and destination and delivery. “I couldn’t be more excited to see production up and running on a new Shelby Mustang,” says Carroll Shelby, CEO and Chairman of Shelby Automobiles, Inc. “The new Shelby GT is a great addition to the Shelby GT500 and Shelby GT-H, and it will only further the lead that Mustang has in the coming muscle car wars.” The Shelby GT is the third modern Shelby Mustang produced through a collaboration of Ford and Carroll Shelby. In addition to the 2007 Shelby GT500, Ford and Shelby created 500 copies of the Ford Shelby GT-H, which are available to rent through select Hertz rental centers. The Shelby GT joining the Ford line-up is the result of customers and dealers demanding a retail version of the Shelby GT-H. Ford and Shelby Automobiles were able to capitalize on much of the development work that was done on the Shelby GT-H, and put together a ‘Go Fast’ production program delivering the Shelby GT in six months. “The Shelby GT500 has been a huge success, but we have been overwhelmed at the number of people who want to buy a retail version of the Shelby GT-H,” continues Shelby. “The Shelby GT will perfectly compliment the GT500, just like the original GT350 and GT500 did back in the 60’s.”   Be first on the block to own the new small-block Shelby The first production unit of the Shelby GT will be auctioned off to support the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation charity at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Collector Car Event in January 2007. Classic Shelby Mustangs have always been a crowd favorite at Barrett-Jackson auctions, pushing muscle car prices to new heights, and the modern Shelby Mustangs have proven to be no different. In January this year, an early production Shelby 2007 GT500 sold at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale auction for $600,000, with proceeds benefiting the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation. On July 28, a Shelby GT-H was sold for $250,000 at EAA AirVenture, with proceeds benefiting the Youth Eagles aviation education program. Now, some of the first Shelby GT-Hs are exiting the Hertz rental fleet and going to private auction where they are consistently averaging between $68,000-$90,000 in sale.   Shelby-inspired performance, proven by Ford Racing Under the hood, the Ford Racing Power Pack includes a 90 millimeter cold-air intake and a new performance engine calibration for improved response. The high-flow exhaust system with X-pipe crossover offers better power delivery and a throaty V-8 exhaust note. A shorter 3.55:1 rear-axle ratio is installed to capitalize on the Shelby GT coupe’s extra power when accelerating off the line. For Shelby GT models equipped with a manual transmission, a Hurst short-throw shifter is installed for more precise shift action. The Shelby GT driving dynamics are fine tuned with the Ford Racing Handling Pack, which was developed by the same engineers that developed the Ford Racing FR500C, which won the 2005 Grand-Am Cup Championship. New coil springs drop the overall ride height by an inch-and-a-half for a more aggressive stance and lower center of gravity. Stiffer dampers and front swaybar further enhance cornering feel and body control. To showcase the key performance modifications, Ford Racing painted all the key suspension components, including the damper, spring, and swaybar Ford Racing Blue. A front strut-tower brace adds additional strength to the chassis structure, and P235/55ZR18 high-performance tires maximize the benefits of the chassis upgrades. Shelby GT models will begin as a stock Mustang GT assembled at AutoAlliance International assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The cars are then shipped to the Shelby Automobiles facility in Las Vegas for modification before delivery to Ford dealerships.       ,.   OVERVIEW 2007 FORD SHELBY GT500: MOST POWERFUL MUSTANG EVER Performance Inspiration: Carroll Shelby and Ford Special Vehicle Team join forces to create a modern successor to the famous Shelby GT500 of the late 1960s Performance Hardware: 475-horsepower supercharged V-8, 6-speed manual transmission, race-tuned suspension, four-piston Brembo brakes Performance Design: Mustang heritage with aggressive muscular front-end design, Le Mans racing stripes, unmistakable "Cobra" logo and Shelby nameplate The Ford Shelby GT500 seamlessly combines the modern Mustang muscle car with the classic Shelby performance cues, such as the famous Shelby Cobra logo. DETROIT, Jan. 8, 2006 – What happens when a legend from Texas reunites with a legend from Dearborn? The most powerful Mustang ever. After 40 years, racing legend Carroll Shelby and the Ford Mustang are back together with the introduction of the 2007 Ford Shelby GT500.   Performance legend Carroll Shelby first put the muscle in the pony car. The collaboration between Shelby and Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) is yielding an instant collector's Mustang that builds 475 horsepower in its 5.4-liter supercharged V-8.   A modern interpretation of the Shelby Mustang of the 1960s, the Ford Shelby GT500 uses advanced engineering to attain the performance that made the original GT500 the king of the road. True to the original GT500, it will be available both as a coupe and as a convertible when it goes on sale in the summer of 2006. "When Carroll was developing the original GT350 and GT500, he wanted to build the most powerful, most capable Mustangs of his day," says Hau Thai-Tang, director, Advanced Product Creation and Special Vehicle Team. "Our goal was to build the most powerful, most capable Mustang ever." Serving as touchstone and inspirational leader for both the concept and the production versions, Shelby was impressed by what the team has accomplished.   The rear spoiler of the Ford Shelby GT500 echoes that of the classic GT500, while the rear air diffuser is inspired by the modern Ford GT. "It's one thing to put 450 horsepower in an exotic supercar," says Shelby. "It's another to put that much power in something as affordable as a Mustang. The fact that they not only met their goal but pushed on to 475 horsepower is a remarkable achievement." Shelby knows something about creating modern supercars. He served as a senior adviser on the team that developed and built the 550-horsepower Ford GT. Power Play As expected of anything with Shelby's name on it, the heart of the car is what's under the hood. The Ford Shelby GT500's supercharged 5.4-liter, 32-valve V-8 evolves from Ford's experience with tuning its modular, or MOD, engines. Output is a brawny 475 horsepower. The engine is force-fed an air-and-fuel mixture via a "Roots-type" supercharger providing 8.5 pounds per square inch of boost. The GT500 uses a cast-iron engine block. It borrows from the Ford GT program aluminum, four-valve cylinder heads, piston rings and bearings, adding a high level of performance durability to the drivetrain. "Powered by SVT" camshaft covers add the finishing touch to the engine. Helping put the power to the pavement is a 6-speed manual gearbox. For the performance driver, its evenly spaced gears mean less "stirring" is needed to find the "sweet spot." This gives a rewarding experience throughout the engine's broad torque curve. The heavy-duty transmission has proven itself a willing companion to Mustangs in both road and track environments, including recent road-going Mustang Cobras and the new race-winning Mustang FR500C. Power Requires Control The Ford Shelby GT500 continues a legacy of all-around performance that made the original a world-class racer on tracks and road courses around the world. The Ford Shelby GT500 starts with the solid Mustang underpinnings. The all-new Mustang was designed from the beginning with performance derivatives in mind, providing an exceptionally rigid, well-engineered starting point for GT500 chassis engineers. SVT engineers retuned and upgraded key chassis components. Improvements such as revised shocks, spring rates and upgraded stabilizer bars help the Ford Shelby GT500 stop and turn with the same authority as it goes. The Ford Shelby GT500 features a MacPherson strut independent front suspension with Reverse L lower control arms, and a solid-axle, three-link rear suspension with coil springs and a Panhard rod for precise control of the rear axle.     This rear suspension design has been validated on the track by Ford Racing. The Ford Racing Mustang FR500C was purpose-built from the base 2005 Mustang body structure and suspension geometry to run in the Grand-Am Cup series, a class of road racing for production-based cars. Competing against the best from Germany and Japan, a Mustang FR500C won its first race in the season opener at Daytona International Speedway in February 2005. It went on to dominate the season and clinch the championship. "SVT and Ford Racing will be working closer than ever as we go forward on future projects, especially Mustangs," says Thai-Tang, a Ford Racing alumnus who served as the race engineer for the Newman-Haas Racing team in 1993. To match this power and handling ability, engineers fitted some of the biggest brakes in the business to the Ford Shelby GT500. Four-piston Brembo calipers are fitted to 14-inch Brembo vented rotors up front, and 11.8-inch vented discs in the rear continue SVT's legacy of great-braking Mustangs. Secure footing is provided by 255/45ZR high-performance tires in front and 285/40ZR high-performance tires in back. Wheels are 18 inches by 9.5 inches. The Snake is Back One glance shows this is not the typical Mustang Cobra. A sinister-looking front-end design includes wide upper and lower fascia openings with a functional air splitter. The upper intake sports the famous Cobra logo floating off-center in place of a centered galloping pony found on other Mustangs. On either side, slanting headlamp openings add to the dramatic front appearance.   The "GT500" script emblazoned on the gas cap emblem is joined by an updated version of Shelby's classic Cobra logo that is repeated on the grille and the headrest. The bulging hood has heat extractors protruding near the leading edge, combining to provide improved airflow and aerodynamics. As air passes over the hood, hot air from the engine compartment is drawn out through ducts attached to the hood extractors.   "The restrained, performance-oriented SVT design theme has become instantly recognizable to enthusiasts without brash styling cues," says Doug Gaffka, design director, Ford SVT vehicles. "The GT500 takes a huge leap forward by combining the modern Mustang muscle car with the classic Shelby performance look." The 2005 Mustang design team drew inspiration from classic 1968 Mustangs, the models that transformed the mild-mannered pony car into a muscle car with attitude. Envisioning a high-performance model, the team tested GT500 design cues on the Mustang GT coupe concept that was unveiled at the 2003 North American International Auto Show. In 2004, designers further developed the GT500 look on the Mustang GT-R, a race-bred concept with the dual purpose of foreshadowing SVT's Mustang design direction and Ford Racing's plans to return Mustang to road racing. The Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra concept coupe capped the design conceptualization effort. The production Ford Shelby GT500 Coupe now comes into full light, punctuated by the classic Le Mans-style white stripes that race along the top from nose to tail. The stripes recall the Shelby Mustangs that marked another important 1960s Mustang transition when Ford put it on the track to becoming a racing legend. The GT500 nomenclature is prominent in the lower bodyside racing stripe, another cue from the classic Shelby Mustangs. In a touch also borrowed from the GT500's past, no Le Mans stripes will be seen on the 2007 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible. However, the convertible will sport a cloth top similar to those found on pricier convertibles. "There were no Le Mans stripes on Shelby's original GT500 Convertible, so we decided to pay homage by not offering them on the 2007 Ford Shelby GT500," says Gaffka. "We also went with a cloth top material as another measure of substance and authenticity. The fabric used is the same used on the 2002-03 SVT Mustang Cobra, the Thunderbird, Jaguar and Ford's other high-end convertibles." The unique rear fascia features lower strakes inspired by the Ford GT's integrated rear airflow diffuser, and a rear spoiler reminiscent of a classic GT500. To mark the collaboration of two Mustang performance icons, the GT500 features Shelby and SVT badging. The fenders each feature an updated design of the Cobra. The front grille features an off-center snake in place of the standard running horse. "GT500" is emblazoned inside the side rocker stripes, and the name SHELBY is prominently written across the rear deck. The SVT logo can be seen on the wheel center caps, a signature SVT location, as well as on the doorsill plates. To top it off, the medallion between the taillights reads "Shelby GT500" centered on the Cobra image. Cockpit Upgrades   The Ford Shelby GT500 convertible builds on four decades of open-air heritage; the first Mustang was a drop top. More than 1 million convertibles have been sold since 1964. Inside, too, upgraded levels of flair and function abound. The locations of the speedometer and the tachometer are swapped to provide performance-oriented drivers with a better view of shift points while changing gears. Front seats have received additional lateral support to help keep the driver optimally positioned during cornering. The interior is offered in a choice of two colors, Charcoal Black or Charcoal Black and Crimson Red. The charcoal/red offering features Crimson Red seating surfaces and door panel inserts. Seating surfaces are leather with both interior treatments. Snake logos embossed in the seat backs finish the package. The Shelby GT500 script and Cobra image are repeated on the steering wheel cap. Behind the wheel, the gauges wear light faces in keeping with SVT tradition. The chromed accessories inside the cabin have been replaced with a satin aluminum finish, including the aluminum shift lever knob that is nicely positioned for quick, positive shifts. SVT and Shelby: The Legends Grow With the look and legend one would expect from Shelby and the kind of power and performance enthusiasts have come to expect from SVT, the GT500 points to a brand-new era in Ford's performance future.   The Ford Shelby GT500 features Le Mans-style white racing stripes from nose to tail, inspired by those featured on classic Ford Shelby Mustangs. Shelby first put his name on a Mustang back in 1964 when he was asked to inject some high performance into the brand-new pony car. The result was the GT-350R, a lightweight, handling-focused race car that earned Mustang its first performance credentials. Subsequent Shelby Mustangs included a street version of the race car, the GT-350, and what was known as the "rent-a-racer" Mustang, the GT-350H, a joint project with the Hertz rental car corporation.   The ultimate Shelby Mustang of the era was the GT-500KR, or "King of the Road." Powered by a big block 428-cubic-inch "Cobra Jet" V-8, the GT-500 was one of the most powerful, and memorable, muscle cars of that period. Shelby Mustang production ceased in 1970 with a total volume of 14,559 units. The Ford Special Vehicle Team brought high performance back to Mustang in 1993. After 12 years, with nearly 80,000 high-performance Mustangs on the streets and total SVT vehicle production nearing 145,000, SVT is primed for growth with the GT500 serving as the foundation for other performance Mustang projects. By bringing together Shelby and Ford SVT, the company's commitment to performance becomes as powerful as at any time in its history – including the famed "Total Performance" days of the 1960s. From the Ford GT supercar, the GT500, to a rejuvenated Ford Racing Performance Parts program, performance and racing can drive innovation and add luster to Ford's proud brand heritage. "SVT will remain the leader in performance vehicle engineering," says Thai-Tang. "It will continue to build new, innovative products using advanced processes that will not only provide great enjoyment to the dedicated driving enthusiast, but that also will provide great benefit to other Ford products and Ford Motor Company itself." The Ford Shelby GT500 will be built at the Ford-Mazda joint venture, AutoAlliance International, in Flat Rock, Mich.     EXPANDING THE BREED   New GT ‘ California Special’ kicks Mustang style into high gear, while the Stampede Edition offers Texas and Oklahoma customers a collectable option   The 2007 Mustang GT/CS “California Special” rekindles a tradition that began in the ‘60s, offering special, limited edition special Mustangs. Ever since Ford announced it was going to build a production version of the Shelby GT500 concept that debuted at the 2005 New York auto show, car enthusiasts have been abuzz with speculation about what other specialty Mustangs were in the works. Their wait is over: Mustang momentum continues to grow with the introduction of the uniquely styled, limited-edition 2007 Mustang GT/CS — or “California Special.”   The Mustang GT/California Special will arrive in Ford dealerships across the country late this summer as a full, stand-alone option package for 2007. Much like the 1968 GT/CS that offered Mustang buyers more aggressive styling that was “inspired by the original Shelby GT,” the new California Special also draws some cues from the 2007 Shelby. What’s more, the new GT/CS offers the kind of exclusivity that has made the original California Special such a big favorite with Mustang collectors over the years.   The GT/CS was originally a limited-production 1968 Mustang coupe fitted with Shelby Mustang dress-up pieces and sold only though dealerships in California. It was available with any engine, and either with or without the GT option.       The 2007 California Special can be ordered as either a coup or a convertible and features an aggressive front fascia with an integrated chin spoiler that sits 1.5 inches lower than the Mustang GT to provide a larger air opening for increased cooling performance. Familiar California Special-style, body-side racing stripes run from the front fenders, across the doors and up to and across new quarter-panel scoops, which wear “GT/CS” nomenclature, just like in 1968.   A unique rear fascia features a lower air-diffuser design, similar to the rear of the 2007 Shelby GT500 that houses dual exhausts sporting bright, rolled tips for a cleaner, more refined appearance. The car comes standard with the Mustang GT’s optional 18-inch, polished-aluminum wheels and performance tires. The Appearance Package adds a hood scoop.   The 300-horsepower, three-valve, 4.6-liter V-8 gets a unique engine cover that gives the engine compartment the kind of dressed-up look you’d expect to see only at a custom-car show.   For those who want to add a little more “go” to all that extra “show,” the Ford Racing Performance Group offers several exciting parts packages. One popular choice among Mustang owners is the Ford Racing Power Pack, which includes a 90-mm Cold Air kit, a performance Muffler Kit and the special Ford Racing engine calibration — good for about 20 additional horsepower at the rear wheels. (Visit www.fordracingparts.com for more details.)   The 2007 Mustang GT/CS will go on sale later this summer.   Special Stampede Edition Mustang   The limited edition Stampede Mustang comes pre “Texas-ized.” Five hundred copies are available at Texas and Oklahoma Ford dealers. . Texas and Oklahoma Ford dealers are offering an exclusive Mustang that’s sure to become a collector’s item. Only 500 of the special-edition Mustangs will be sold, authenticated with an engraved, numbered plaque.   “Mustang has a long tradition of offering special packages like the Twister and California Special,” says Mark Grueber, Ford marketing strategy manager for the Southwest region. “We have a special Texas Edition F-150 and Super Duty, and Mustang is such a part of the Texas landscape, we thought it would be a natural fit.”   The Stampede Edition Mustang V-6 coupe builds on the Pony Package, featuring 17-inch, painted-aluminum wheels and a pony grille with integrated fog lamps. The Stampede adds wide, 9-inch silver racing stripes, exclusive Stampede badging (including a Stampede Edition gas cap), chrome pony spinner caps, chrome exhaust tips and a rear spoiler.   The Interior Upgrade Package adds the unique MyColor™ Instrument Panel Display, offering up to 125 color backgrounds at the touch of a button, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The standard Shaker 500 audio system features a six-disc CD player; a Shaker 1000 audio system is also available. The Interior Upgrade Package includes six-way power seats. Carpeted front floor mats carry unique brushed-chrome “Mustang” badging.   “A lot of customers are looking for something unique,” says Grueber. They want to “Texasize” their vehicles. The Stampede gives them the opportunity to own something unique.”   All 500 Stampede Mustangs have been produced and are on their way to one of the roughly 300 Ford dealers in Oklahoma and Texas.   MUSTANG MUSCLE FOR RENT: FORD, SHELBY, HERTZ TEAM UP ON SHELBY GT-H Shelby GT-H commemorates 40-year anniversary of famed Shelby/Hertz GT350H "Rent-A-Racer" Shelby, Ford Racing give Mustang GT V-8/automatics extra "show," added "go" to make Shelby GT-H A special run of about 500 units will be available for rent exclusively through the Hertz Fun Collection at select airport locations GT-H packs Ford Racing performance, handling in hot Shelby looks, classic Black & Gold Hertz livery NEW YORK, Wed., April 12, 2006 – In a throwback to the famed Shelby GT350H "Rent-A-Racer" program from the 1960s, Ford Motor Company, Shelby Automobiles and The Hertz Corporation are partnering to produce a special run of performance-modified Ford Mustang GTs – designated Shelby GT-H, for "Hertz" – that will be available for rent later this spring exclusively through Hertz. Approximately 500 units will be available through the Hertz Fun Collection at select airport locations Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Nevada, Oregon and Washington. Forty years ago, Carroll Shelby and The Hertz Corporation came up with an ingenious plan to help get a batch of high-performance, special-edition Shelby Mustangs into the hands of rental customers who also happened to be car enthusiasts. Ford supplied the new Mustangs with V-8 engines and mostly automatic transmissions, Shelby added extra performance and style, and Hertz gave the public access to the kind of unique driving experience that one would normally only find on a racetrack. Today, the story of the Shelby/Hertz "Rent-A-Racer" is legendary and surviving Shelby GT350H Mustangs are among the most sought-after collector cars in the world. To connect the magical past of the original Shelby GT350H with the modern capabilities of the new Ford Mustang, Shelby, Ford and Hertz have again teamed up, and – together with the Ford Racing Performance Group – have given the 2006 Ford Shelby GT-H a very classic, muscular look as well as some true performance credentials. "Like the original Hertz cars, the Ford Shelby GT-H will be fun to drive," said Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles, Inc. "We started with a terrific Mustang and modified it with some Ford go-fast parts and gave it a distinct look for Shelby-style driving. Whoever gets the opportunity to rent one of these unique cars will get an experience of a lifetime." Hertz Fun Collection Further enhancing its position as a leader at U.S. airports in the leisure car rental market, Hertz launched its Fun Collection in January 2006. Featuring vehicles tailor-made for travelers seeking exciting driving experiences, the Fun Collection adds more entertainment to the driving experience as each car comes equipped with SIRIUS Satellite Radio.   The 2006 Ford Shelby GT-H Mustang will be available at select airport locations that feature the Hertz Fun Collection including Phoenix, Arizona; Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego and San Francisco, California; Denver, Colorado; Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Orlando, Tampa and West Palm Beach, Florida; Maui and Honolulu, Hawaii, and Las Vegas, Nevada. In addition, the car will be available in Boston, Massachusetts; Portland, Oregon, and Seattle, Washington. With the addition of the Ford Shelby GT-H Mustang into the Fun Collection, Hertz now offers 36 models that can be specifically reserved, ranging from mid-size to luxury cars, convertibles to SUVs and is the only nationwide car rental company able to allow customers to reserve the specific make and model vehicles at the time of reservation. More than 8,000 Fun Collection vehicles are available at 18 major airport locations in the United States. "With 2006 marking the 40th anniversary of the Shelby GT350H joining the Hertz fleet, we’re thrilled to be bringing legendary Mustang driving excitement back to our rental customers," said Walt Seaman, staff vice president, Worldwide Fleet, Maintenance, and Car Sales Operations for The Hertz Corporation. "The Shelby GT-H is a fun, powerful Mustang to drive, and will be a special part of the Hertz Fun Collection. As all cars in the collection are reserved by exact make and model, customers can rest assured that when they reserve a Shelby GT-H Mustang to drive, they will receive the Shelby GT-H Mustang upon arrival." Extra "Show" Like its predecessor, the 2006 Ford Shelby GT-H will be instantly recognizable – thanks to several eye-catching styling enhancements that are so much a part of the Shelby Mustang heritage. First and foremost, each Shelby GT-H will wear Black exterior paint set off with Gold racing stripes, a hallmark of Hertz’s vehicle history dating all the way back to the 1920s.         While it’s true that the Shelby GT350H was eventually made available in other color combinations, the Black-and-Gold combo is often referred to as "Hertz colors" by most Mustang aficionados. Shelby’s traditional "Le Mans" dual overbody racing stripes are combined with a set of rocker stripes that include special "Shelby GT-H" nomenclature. Each car will also wear a Hertz Edition emblem on the front fenders, and feature Hertz Shelby GT-H sill plates and a numbered dash badge with Carroll Shelby’s signature inside the cockpit. To give a hint of the Mustang GT 4.6-liter 3V V-8 engine’s added capability, the Ford Shelby GT-H is fitted with a custom Shelby Performance hood with pins, and a brushed aluminum grille with running horse emblem. A unique front fascia with integrated lower grille, as well as a set of body side scoops – reminiscent of classic Shelby Mustangs is incorporated for a distinct look. To further catch the enthusiast’s eye, the Mustang GT brakes are dressed up with painted calipers, which can be seen through the GT-H’s 17-inch aluminum wheels wearing P235/55ZR17 performance rubber. Added "Go" Ford Racing Performance Group is supplying its popular Power Pack (FR1) to add a genuine 25-horsepower Ford performance kick to the 300-horse Mustang GT 4.6L V-8/Five-speed automatic transmission powertrain and an increase of 10 lb.-ft. of torque. The package includes Ford Racing’s 90mm Cold Air kit, the Muffler Kit, a new X-pipe similar to the one used on the new Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang, a performance calibration and a cat-back performance exhaust for that throaty sound that will make this car unmistakably a Shelby Mustang GT-H. "Any Mustang that traces its roots to a Shelby GT350H has to boast increased performance and handling over its factory stock configuration," said Cisco Codina, group vice president, Ford North America Marketing, Sales and Service. "Ford Racing’s involvement with niche performance Mustang builds like this Hertz project is a natural for us as well as for Hertz and Shelby." To put that extra horsepower to the ground, the Ford Shelby GT-H also comes with the Ford Racing Handling Pack (FR3) installed, including special-tuned dampers inspired from the FR500C, lowering springs, sway bars and a strut tower brace – plus a Ford Racing 3.55:1 ratio rear axle assembly for extra off-the-line acceleration.   Ford Racing will be working hand-in-hand with engineers and technicians at Shelby Automobile’s assembly facility in Las Vegas during the build-out of the GT-H for delivery to Hertz. With total production expected to number only around 500 units exclusively destined for Hertz rental fleets across the country, this special-edition Ford Shelby GT-H is sure to give Hertz customers a truly exclusive driving experience like only Shelby and the Ford Mustang can deliver. "This GT-H project has been terrific," said Amy Boylan, president, Shelby Automobiles Inc. "My team here at Shelby Automobiles is very excited with what we have put together with Ford, and Hertz – a pony that not only has a special look, but can really run, too. Those who get to rent a GT-H in the coming months will have the opportunity to enjoy a car that looks, accelerates, handles and sounds the way a high-performance Shelby-ized Ford Mustang should. It will prove lots of fun for Hertz customers looking for some real driving excitement." For more information about Shelby Automobiles, and to a sneak-peak of the build of the first Shelby GT-H, visit www.shelbyautos.com. The Hertz Fun Collection features convertibles including the Ford Mustang, Mazda Miata, Toyota Solara, PT Cruiser and Chrysler Sebring; coupes/roadsters including Ford Mustang (hard-top), PT Cruiser, Chevy HHR and Nissan 350Z; and SUVs such as the Ford Escape XLT Sport, Jeep Wrangler, Nissan Murano and Hummer H3. For Shelby GT-H or other Hertz Fun Collection reservations, or to see which vehicles are available at participating Hertz locations visit www.hertz.com. The Hertz Fun Collection may also be reserved through travel agents or by calling the Hertz toll-free at 1-800-654-3131.   Ford Mustang Set to Capture American Hearts – Again OVERVIEW "Cars are built all over the world, but Mustang could come only from Ford. Like the F-150 is to Ford trucks, Mustang is the soul of Ford cars. A pure performer, it’s the most affordable 300-horsepower car made and the best rear-drive performance car under $20,000." -Phil Martens Group Vice President North America Product Creation Ford Mustang Set to Capture American Hearts – Again Since its dramatic 1964 introduction, Ford Mustang has been the icon of American performance and style, capturing hearts worldwide. For 2005, Mustang combines an all-new, fully modern architecture with all the soul that makes a Mustang a Mustang – bold style, a brawny engine and rear-wheel-drive excitement. In short, every inch of Mustang is new – yet it staunchly remains the genuine article – "America’s Car" for 40 years. Based on an all-new, fully modern body structure and chassis system featuring advanced MacPherson struts and a three-link live axle with Panhard rod, Mustang boasts an overall ride sophistication unmatched by any of its ancestors. Its braking and handling are nothing short of world class. It produces all the tire-smoking power the rear wheels – and most drivers – can handle, with a better-breathing 300-horsepower, 24-valve MOD V-8 or 200-horsepower SOHC V-6 engine. With power comes responsibility, and the new Mustang takes occupant protection to a new level. A stout safety cage, Ford’s Personal Safety System™ with passenger weight-sensing technology, available side air bags and a front structure designed for demanding offset impacts, provide drivers and passengers with the most comprehensive protection ever offered in a muscle car. What’s more, all this unrivaled driving excitement will continue to come at an attainable price. Mustang will remain the best performance car for under $20,000, and the most affordable 300-horsepower car made today.   Embodiment of American Muscle Like wild horses on the open plain, Mustangs always have exuded a sense of pure power. The 2005 Ford Mustang offers a clean, contemporary design rooted in this unmistakable heritage. It is direct, straightforward, honest and – above all – authentically American. The Mustang takes its design language from the concept car that stole hearts along the auto show circuit and signaled that America’s only remaining muscle car would be introduced for 2005 with even more attitude. "We weren’t just redesigning a car, we were adding another chapter to an epic," said J Mays, Ford Motor Company group vice president, Design. An all-new platform and clean-sheet design approach gave birth to a car that is modern, legendary and unmistakably Mustang. The signature long hood and short rear deck capitalize on 40 years of history, as do classic design cues that have helped define Mustangs since the 1960s: C-scoops in the sides, three-element taillamps and a galloping horse badge in the center of the grille. The Mustang’s menacing shark-like nose imparts an attitude not seen since the 1967 model, while jeweled, round headlamps in trapezoidal housings are part of a striking new design flair.   "The new Mustang is pure American muscle," Mays said. "But, rest assured, we’re not insisting on history at the expense of our future." The 2005 Mustang has an aggressive rake that puts the car in motion even when it’s standing still. The wheels were pushed to the corners of the body, better anchoring Mustang visually and physically to the road. The six-inch wheelbase gain over the 2004 model and increased interior compartment width provide more room for driver and passengers. Head-Turning on the Inside, Too The cabin – a beneficiary of Ford’s tripled investment in interiors – is every bit as breathtaking and genuine as the exterior. Three distinct design themes celebrate Mustang history with modern materials and features, including an available industry-first, color-configurable instrument panel for almost unlimited personalization. "This is a $30,000 interior in a $20,000 car," said Larry Erickson, Mustang chief designer. "The functional, contemporary look of this interior and its precise execution set a new standard." Available authentic aluminum panels spanning the dashboard are particularly eye-catching, as are prominent dual chrome-ringed gauges that cap an all-new technology.  Thanks to the industry’s first available color-configurable instrument cluster, Mustang owners can mix and match lighting at the touch of a button to create more than 125 different color backgrounds to suit their personality, mood, outfit or whim. these modern touches mix with Mustang history and heritage. Chrome-ringed air vents are aligned vertically across the dash, precisely in line with the gauges, and the steering wheel has three spokes with a black center hub marked by the horse and tricolor bars logo, echoing the design of the 1967 Mustang. The available Interior Color Accent Package – charcoal with red leather seats, red door inserts and red floor mats – is as much a jaw-dropper as the interior of the acclaimed concept vehicle that inspired it. The cabin’s aluminum hardware accents add a look of technical precision. Thanks to efficient packaging and the larger overall size of the new Mustang, taller drivers will feel more at home, and all four occupants enjoy more room. Overall, the new model offers the driver more headroom and shoulder room. Rear passengers also enjoy more legroom and shoulder room in their sculpted bucket seats. More features are standard than ever before, including one-touch up/down power windows, power mirrors, keyless entry and power locks, a heated rear window and interval wipers. Audio systems range from the standard CD player on base models to the wild, chest-pounding 1,000-watt Shaker Audiophile system. More Power and Punch Muscular new engines infuse Mustang with its legendary tire-smoking performance. The 4.6-liter all-aluminum V-8 has three-valve heads and cranks out 300 horsepower, while the new SOHC V-6 engine generates 202 horsepower from 4.0 liters. Five-speed transmissions – manual and automatic – put the power to the pavement. The 2005 Mustang GT is the first mainstream production Mustang to break into the 300-horsepower arena, a place formerly occupied only by legendary Cobra and Boss models. The new level of performance – on regular fuel – is made possible by intelligent application of powertrain technology. Because of its all-aluminum construction, Mustang’s MOD V-8 – a member of Ford’s modular engine family – weighs 75 pounds less than a comparable cast-iron design and stokes up 40 more horsepower than the 2004 engine. That’s over 50 percent more power than delivered by the fiery, small-block 289-cubic-inch V-8 found under the hood of the classic 1964 model. Electronic throttle control, faster engine management controls and the new three-valve cylinder heads with variable camshaft timing all contribute to this impressive output. The three-valve heads with VCT allowed engine designers to use a higher compression ratio with regular 87-octane gasoline to maximize the energy used by every drop of fuel. Intake runners with active charge motion control valves also shape each combustion event for strong, low-end torque and maximum high-rpm power. New SOHC V-6 Engine: Even More Output The 2005 Mustang V-6 is powered by a new 4.0-liter, 60-degree, single-overhead-cam engine, replacing the 3.8-liter 90-degree pushrod engine in the 2004 model. It’s inherently smoother and more compact, provides more power and torque and incorporates many of the advanced technologies used on the V-8. The 200-horsepower, 235 foot-pound engine – gains of 7 horsepower and 10 foot-pounds – features low-profile heads, a composite intake manifold and a sound quality tuned to match Mustang’s powerful image. The Right Gear: Smoother-Shifting Transmissions Mustang’s manual and automatic transmissions are also upgraded for improved performance. For the first time, Mustang is available with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 5R55S automatic provides a unique combination of off-the-line jump and remarkably good highway fuel economy. A powerful new transmission control computer can communicate with the engine electronics 10 times faster than before and precisely controls shift duration and timing. For those who prefer to compute their own shift points, five-speed manual transmissions are standard. The V-8 powered GT is equipped with a rugged Tremec 3650 gearbox, while V-6 cars get a Tremec T-5 manual. Both benefit from improved shift quality and efficiency. The shift linkage provides quick gear engagement and a solid feel. A Chassis Born to Run The purpose-built, muscle-car chassis is new from the ground up, with a state-of-the-art front suspension and precise, three-link rear axle with Panhard rod. Combined with direct, accurate steering and powerful disc brakes, Mustang now has what it takes to catapult the American muscle-car driving experience to the next level. Track time – at drag strips and on road courses – was a critical part of development, as chassis engineers pushed prototypes to the limit in search of the perfect power-and-handling blend. "We spent countless hours refining this car on development drives and at the track," said Mark Rushbrook, vehicle dynamics supervisor. "The car has been to the Nelson Ledges road course in Ohio several times for 24-hour runs and has spent months on our own straightaways and handling courses at our proving grounds in Arizona, Michigan and Florida." By the time testing is completed, prototypes of the new Mustang will have logged nearly 1 million miles on streets and highways and tracks throughout the United States, Canada and Sweden in all types of weather. Strutting an Advanced Front Suspension The MacPherson-strut front suspension’s reverse "L" lower control arms are the product of a groundbreaking manufacturing technology used to produce steel control arms that actually weigh less than some comparable cast-aluminum designs. MacPherson struts – originally developed in the 1940s by Earl S. MacPherson, a Ford engineer – are widely renowned for their ability to deliver both comfort and control with reduced weight. A firm bushing is positioned at the point where the shorter forward leg of the L-arm connects to the chassis to control lateral – or side-to-side – motion and quicken steering response. The longitudinal – fore-and-aft – movements are directed through a softer, compliant bushing at the longer, rear L-arm leg, which damps road shocks. This isolation is a direct benefit of the reverse "L" configuration of the control arms. Still Rock Solid – Rear Axle with New Three-Link Suspension Mustang’s characteristic solid-rear axle has evolved continuously over the past 40 years, and the new model takes the car’s signature design into a new dimension. "We talked to a lot of Mustang owners as we were developing this program," said Hau Thai-Tang, chief engineer. "They are a very passionate group, and a lot of them told us – very strongly – that the all-new Mustang had to have a solid rear axle." The solid rear axle offers several advantages that play to Mustang’s strengths. It is robust, maintains constant track, toe-in and camber relative to the road surface, and it keeps body roll well under control. For 2005, Mustang’s rear suspension has a new three-link architecture with a Panhard rod that provides precise control of the rear axle. A central torque control arm is fastened to the upper front end of the differential, while trailing arms are located near each end of the axle. The lightweight, tubular Panhard rod is parallel to the axle and attached at one end to the body and at the other to the axle. It stabilizes the rear axle side-to-side as the wheels move through jounce and rebound. It also firmly controls the axle during hard cornering. The shocks are located on the outside of the rear structural rails, near the wheels, reducing the lever effect of the axle and allowing more precise, slightly softer tuning of the shock valves. Mustang Sound Character: The Strong, Silent Type Mustang is faster, more agile and better looking than ever – but it’s much quieter and refined for 2005. In the design process, a quiet cabin – where unwanted road and wind noise is supplanted by the signature growl of a Mustang engine – was a top priority. The result is a car that delivers the performance Mustang buyers demand, along with a more civilized environment that makes for a pleasant driving experience, whether on long trips or in more routine travel about town. Brakes and Traction Systems – For Control Freaks The standard four-wheel disc brakes have the biggest rotors and stiffest calipers ever fitted to a mainstream Mustang. Twin-piston aluminum calipers clamp down on 12.4-inch ventilated front brake discs on GT models – an increase of more than 15 percent in rotor size. The V-6 Mustangs get 11.4-inch ventilated rotors that also are 30 mm thick. In the rear, the brake rotors are 11.8 inches in diameter – more than 12 percent larger than on the 2004 model. Rear rotors are vented on the GT and solid on the V-6. A new four-channel antilock braking system is available for a greater degree of brake control. Bundled as an option with ABS, an all-speed intelligent traction control system uses electronic sensors to constantly monitor road conditions and feed the information to a dedicated control computer capable of determining within milliseconds whether the vehicle is on dry pavement or negotiating a slippery surface. On those occasions when traction control isn’t desired – like a smoky burnout at the drag strip – drivers can deactivate the system with a button conveniently located on the instrument panel’s center stack, just to the right of the gauges. Stronger, Safer, More Secure Mustang’s agility helps drivers avoid accidents like no muscle car in history. Responsive, precise controls, coupled with high levels of overall grip and the strongest brakes ever fitted to a Mustang, give the driver the controllability that can turn an impending collision into just a close shave. If a collision is unavoidable, a stout safety cage, Ford’s Personal Safety System™ restraints suite and available side air bags with head and chest coverage give occupants the best possible protection. The Ford Motor Company Personal Safety System, one of the industry’s most comprehensive safety technology packages, is standard. The system is designed to provide increased protection in many types of frontal crashes by analyzing crash factors and determining the proper response within milliseconds. It uses dual-stage driver and front-passenger air bags – capable of deploying at full or partial power – safety belt pretensioners and energy management retractors. Standard occupant classification sensing builds on the strength of the Personal Safety System to tailor deployment of the front-passenger air bag. If the passenger seat sensor detects no weight – or very little weight, like a newspaper or a jacket – the passenger air bag is automatically switched off. If more weight is on the seat, like a small child, the air bag remains deactivated and an instrument panel light alerts the driver with the message "PASSENGER AIR BAG OFF." Of course, children are safest when properly restrained in the rear seat. If an adult is seated properly in the passenger seat, the air bag automatically switches on, ready to inflate within milliseconds if needed. An optional active anti-theft package offers customers a new level of security for their Mustang. The feature is aimed directly at combating wildly high performance-car insurance premiums. The package includes: An inclination sensing module to guard against tow-away thefts Interior motion sensor to detect "smash-and-grab" break-ins Separate alarm sounder – instead of vehicle horn – to thwart thieves trying to disable the horn High-capacity, 60-ampere-hour battery capable of sounding the alarm longer