Thursday, November 22, 2012
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Michigan Assembly Plant
The Michigan Assembly plant is making history: it’s the only manufacturing site in the world to build vehicles with five different fuel efficient powertrains (four that deliver 40 MPG or better!) on the same line.
Source: Internet
2013 Ford Transit Wagon
Ford is excited to introduce the Transit Connect Wagon, which can seat up to seven people and anticipates up to 30 MPG+ on the highway with EcoBoost® power.
There’s finally a vehicle as unique as you are. The all-new 2014 Ford Transit Connect answers your drive for life with its ability to be ready for just about anything. Available in the fall of 2013.
Interior Transit Connect - Interior Front
Interior Transit Connect - All Seats Down
Interior Transit Connect - All Seats
Interior Transit Connect - Vista Roof
Ford Transit Connect Wagon
Ford Transit Connect Wagon
Ford Transit Connect Wagon Rear View
Ford Transit Connect Wagon
Ford Transit Connect Wagon Close Up View
Ford Transit Connect Wagon
Source: Internet
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
1954 Ford FX Atmos
The Ford FX Atmos was an attempt to cross the boundaries of design and conventional thinking. It was even envisioned to be powered by nuclear power. There were two joysticks on either side of the driver which controlled the vehicle. The driver's seating was central with the passengers sitting on either side and back.
The design was something similar seen in the 'Jettson's' TV show.
Source: Internet
1958 Ford Nucleon Arrow
The Ford Nucleon Concept was constructed in 1958 and there was only one ever constructed. This vehicle was intended to be powered by a small nuclear reactor which would be housed in the rear. A power capsule sat between twin booms in the rear. The capsule contained the radioactive core and provided the power.
An electronic torque convert took the place of the drive-train, with the drive-train being integral with the power module. It was believed the Nucleon would be able to travel at least 5000 miles before requiring a recharge. When the core was drained, it could be brought to a charging station where it could be re-charged.
The front windshield was a one-piece glass and without pillars. The passenger compartment had a cab-forward design and was constructed to provide adequate protection for the driver and the passengers from the reactor in the rear.
A mock-up of this car can be seen at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan.
Source: Internet
1958 Ford Fairlane 500 Sunliner Convertible
Sold for $30,800 at 2006 RM Auctions.
Sold for $34,100 at 2008 RM Auctions.
The 1958 model year was filled with extravagant and flamboyant designs with large tailfins and lots of chrome. The Fairlane 500 range was part of the Fairlane series and adorned with trim options and chrome. There was a double runner chorme strip with a gold anodized insert as side trim along with brightwork on the C-pillars.
The Skyliner and Sunliner were the two convertible options offered on the Fairlane 500 range. The Skyliner, offered from 1947 through 1959, had a folding hardtop which was rather clumsy, complicated and heavy. The Sunliner had a folding soft top, a more traditional design. The Sunliner was the more popular of the two, outselling its counterpart about two-to-one.
This 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 Sunliner Convertible with chassis number G8MC104765 is complete with fender skirts, power steering, twin mirrors, white tonneau covers, whitewall tires, and power steering. Under the hood is a 332 cubic-inch V8 engine that produces 265 horsepower. There is a three-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drum brakes.
It was offered for sale at the 2006 RM Auctions in Meadow Brook where it was estimated to fetch between $35,000 - $45,000. It was offered without reserve, finding a new home at $30.800.
Source: Internet
1961 Ford Gyron Concept
The Ford Gyron was a two-wheeled gyrocar which made its debut at the 1961 Detroit Motor Show. It was a concept car that had a very futuristic, two-wheeled design. It had a motorcycle-like design, with one wheel in the front and one in the rear. The vehicle was stabilized by gyroscopes. When the vehicle was at a stand-still, two small stabilizer legs appeared from the sides to add support.
There was seating for two, with driver and passenger sitting side-by-side. It was a concept created for research and marketing purposes with never put into production.
Alex Tremulus's career began with the US airforce and included work at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base on the concept of Military flying saucers. He later became chief designer for the short-lived Tucker marque. His later endeavor's include Ford with their Tuscan gyroscopic motorcycles and the Gyronaught XU1 gyroscopic car. He was the designer of the Ford Gyron with the gyroscopic systems based on Louis Brennan's theories.
Source: Internet
1962 Ford Seattle-ITE XXI Concept
This 1963 Ford Seattle-ite XXI was a concept that was very bold, dramatic, futuristic, and inspiring for its era. It utilizing advanced technology including a trip computer, navigation and traffic information systems, fuel cell power and steer-by-wire technology. There were a total of six wheels with two being in the front. The four wheels in front were steer-able and turn in tandem. This would done to enhance tracking, traction, and braking efficiency. The cockpit was nearly enclosed in glass. In the rear there were four large exhaust pipes that appeared more to be fuselage for an aircraft than exhaust outlets.
This vehicle was show-cased at the 1963 Worlds Fair.
Source: Internet
2001 Ford Forty-Nine Cocnept
Forty-Nine Ford: Rekindling romance with new version of American classic
The year was 1949. After years of wartime sacrifice and sameness in durable goods, postwar America was ready for an automotive design revolution. The '49 Ford - with radically new 'slab sides,' integrated body and fenders, independent front suspension and rear quarter windows that opened - served as a symbol of optimism for the future. Fifty years later, an all-new Ford Forty-Nine custom coupe concept car is poised to repeat a bit of history, as it makes its world debut at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The new Ford Forty-Nine concept is designed to take America on a 'sentimental drag-race' down memory lane and underscore Ford's commitment to designing excitement into new cars coming down the road. The Forty-Nine concept harkens back to the romance of a Friday night at the drive-in or bowling alley, listening to rock-and-roll and cruising 'the strip' in a chopped and channeled custom car. 'The inspiration for the Forty-Nine concept comes from the passion and excitement of the original, combined with the imagination of people across America who customized the car and turned it into what they thought a really great car should be,' says J Mays, Ford Motor Company vice president of Design. 'The concept melds together many of the custom car designs from the 1950s as well as elegant cues and shapes from some of the great Italian designs, such as Ghia.' As soon as it was introduced in New York City amid much fanfare in June 1948, the '49 Ford became a runaway sensation. As the first all-new, postwar Ford design, the car attracted 1.3 million orders even before it officially went on sale at dealerships. The design was so acclaimed that it won the prestigious Fashion Academy Award in 1949 and repeated the rare honor again in 1950. The original '49 had a modern slab-side design, with front fenders, body sides and rear quarter panels forming one continuous line from head to taillights. It boasted a 'dream car' silhouette as well as a simple grille and balanced greenhouse. The car's advertisements heralded its 'mid-ship' ride, 'hydra-coil' springs, 'picture window' visibility, 'Magic Action' king-size brakes and 'sofa wide' seats built for living-room comfort. The '49 Ford fit perfectly into America's cruisin' and car customization craze, which reached a frenzy in the late 1940's and early '50's. Teenagers across the country began snapping up the car, tinkering with the engine to make it go faster, reshaping the body to make it look sportier and reworking the suspension to achieve an altered ride. The 1949-51 Ford coupes were considered some of the most desirable cars to chop and channel.
To create the all-new concept Forty-Nine, Ford designers went back to the car's roots - simple shapes, clean body panels and modern conveniences. The Forty-Nine concept's hyper-smooth appearance is achieved by an all-glass upper body structure with totally concealed pillars and windshield wipers. The exterior finish is velvety black with bright chrome wrapping around the greenhouse and modest chrome accents elsewhere, such as its badging and 20-inch chrome wheels. Clean, simple, design cues are conveyed in the rounded high intensity discharge (HID) and projector-beam front lighting. In the rear, sleek, narrow, wrap-around LED tail lamps make a distinctive statement. The interior also is a modern interpretation of the original car's simple design cues. A cantilevered, bench-style front seat is power-actuated. A floating center console runs the entire length of the interior, giving the impression of four-passenger bucket seating, while also serving to stiffen the vehicle's structure. The floating console houses the five-speed shift lever and ventilation for both front and rear seat passengers. The interior color theme is two-tone: black and sienna. The black leather seats have sienna leather seat backs. Sienna leather also accents the upper door trim panels, instrument panel and package tray. The armrest is wrapped in charcoal leather. The lower door trim panels are finished in satin metallic silver. The silver carpet inserts are accented with chrome rails running the front to rear. The car's primary gauges are contained within a single round instrument binnacle - similar to the production '49 and hot rods of the era. The analog tachometer takes center stage and is surrounded by the electronic speedometer. Audio and climate controls are presented in a flip-out panel located in the instrument panel, just ahead of the shifter. Their respective readouts, along with temperature, oil and fuel gauges, are displayed on either side of the centrally mounted clock, at the base of the windshield. A two-tone, leather-wrapped steering wheel features cruise and radio controls on a metal ring, reminiscent of the 'horn-ring' popular in the 1950's. The rear view mirror is positioned along a prominent 'wind-split' rod, which extends from the instrument panel to the front header. The mirror can be adjusted up or down along the length of the rod, which serves multiple purposes. It adjusts to the needs of drivers of all sizes and also looks striking. The rod also serves to house the radio antenna, which extends through the roof. The audio system features a multi-disc CD changer and a strategically placed speaker network, anchored by a massive sub-woofer, all driven by a 200-watt power amplifier.
Powered by Thunderbird
The design under the hood is an obvious extension of the exterior design philosophy and the interior theme and an homage to hot-rodders' obsession with performance and appearance. The engine bay is finished in satin black, stainless and chrome metal finishes throughout. The radiator and its associated structure have been re-oriented to take full advantage of the design opportunities on the engine itself. The intake manifolds are finished in satin metal and valve covers in gloss black and accented with polished stainless steel. Filtered interior air inlets are located at the trailing edge of the front wheel opening, and dual stainless steel exhausts penetrate the rear bumper fascia. The engine bay is not only cosmetic: The chrome 'Powered by Thunderbird' badge on the side fender gives a hint at the powerplant under the hood. The Forty-Nine concept is powered by a Thunderbird 3.9-liter, DOHC, 32-valve V-8, tuned to fit the car's appearance and refined muscle. 'Like the Thunderbird, the Forty-Nine reminds us of the love affair that generations have had with the open road and the automobile,' says Mays. 'Both of these cars remind us of a romance and a passion of the American touring car that is just as thrilling today as it was 50 years ago.'
Source - Ford
2001 Ford Explorer Sportsman Concept
The Ford Explorer nameplate was introduced in 1990 and soon became the industry's best-selling sport utility vehicle. In the decade that followed, sport utility sales had double-digit growth annual, and by 2000, Explorer sales reached 440,000. Ford introduced several special edition Explorers, and one such example was the Sportsman Concept.
The Explorer Sportmans was designed to fulfill the dreams of anglers. It is based on the production 2002 Explorer and outfitted with Scott fly-fishing rods. It is finished in low-gloss, satin metallic green and has satin-finish front and rear chrome skid plates and an integrated hood and grille. The running boards deploy when the doors are opened and also serve as storage for fishing rods and equipment. There is a fully-detachable roof rack, which extends forward and folds down. This allows nets, fishing rods, and other items to easily be loaded from the side. Modular attachments are positioned on the rooftop to carry additional sporting equipment like tents or bicycles. When in a fixed position, the arms of the roof rack swing outward to form a basket for carrying fly-fishing equipment. The bottom of the basket is trimmed with Blondwood slats. There is extensive use of Blondwood, a type common in moist coastal regions of Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria in Australia.
Inside, there is extensive use of pebble-woven leather and Blondwood. There is a GPS screen, and the seatbacks carry packs that fold out for fly-typing. There is a 30-gallon live fish tank with clean-air filter, which locks into place in the rear compartment. It has rollers for easy loading and unloading.
The engine is a 4.6-liter SOHC V8 engine developing 240 horsepower. There is a five-speed automatic transmission with overdrive and four-wheel hydraulic power disc brakes.
In 2010, this vehicle was offered for sale at the 'Sports & Classics of Monterey' presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $40,000 - $60,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $49,500 inclusive of buyer's premium.
Source: Internet
2008 Ford Flex by Chip Foose
FORD DESIGN PARTNERS ‘FLEX' THEIR MUSCLES, CUSTOMIZING SEGMENT-BUSTING NEW PRODUCT
• Two top customizers treat the all-new 2009 Ford Flex sheet metal as their canvas, highlighting the vehicle's diverse aftermarket appeal and potential.
• A Chip Foose-designed Flex defines suburban luxury.
• Funkmaster Flex showcases urban luxury with his modified Flex2.
Courtesy of customizing legends Chip Foose and Funkmaster Flex, the 2009 Ford Flex sports two distinct new looks at this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas.
Ahead of Flex's arrival in dealerships next summer, Ford tapped the duo to help customers start dreaming about the customization options this all-new vehicle brings.
'The Ford Flex elicits emotional responses from people unlike any vehicle in recent memory, yet customers have distinct interpretations of how the Flex can fit into their lifestyle,' says Kate Pearce, Ford Flex marketing plans manager. 'Bringing Flex to SEMA before the production vehicle's launch gives us an opportunity to explore the endless possibilities within the world of customization – and to help further broaden the vehicle's strong appeal.'
Funkmaster Flex and Foose each have taken a unique approach in customizing their vehicle, yet both remain true to the Flex's core design while providing their take on the latest luxury trends. Foose focuses on what he sees in suburban styling, while Funkmaster Flex brings the hottest in urban influence to his project.
2009 Ford Flex designed by Chip FooseStar of Overhaulin' and the hottest custom car designer on the scene, Foose gave the Flex a look of contemporary suburban luxury that accentuates its already stand-out good looks.
Riding on Foose Design 22-inch wheels and Eibach springs customized for a lower appearance, the Foose Flex exterior features a custom-mixed, tow-tone blue and cream pearl paint job.
Inside, this color scheme continues with three-tone blue, gray and tan premium leather surfaces by Katzkin Leather.
Custom front and rear fascias and rocker panels are complemented by a custom wrap-around chrome beltline. Additional exterior details include painted appliqué door handles and a relocated license plate. With custom upper and lower grilles and bold FORD lettering across the front and rear, the Foose Flex reflects the right amount of expressive luxury appeal.
'When Ford called, I was quite excited to be one of the first to get my hands on the Flex,' says Foose. 'I didn't want the individual pieces I added to be the most eye-catching parts. I wanted it to look as if it came from Ford's design studio.'
Ford Flex
The 2009 Ford Flex is set to redefine the modern American journey when it goes on sale in summer 2008. This vehicle sets a higher standard for style, features, functionality and comfort in the industry's fastest-growing crossover segment.
The 2009 Flex will come straight from the factory with several key features and technologies, including:
• Two-tone roof – An all-black greenhouse – a Ford first – that visually integrates the body with the available two-tone roof. Customers can pair a White Suede or Silver roof option with one of Flex's 10 available exterior colors or choose a body-color roof.
• High-tech lighting – Available HID headlamps and LED tail lamps, plus 7-color programmable ambient lighting in the console, foot wells and cup holders.
• Available refrigerator – Unlike competitors' systems that merely keep cold beverages cool, the Flex's compressor-driven refrigerator can cool up to seven 12-ounce cans, four half-liter bottles or two 20-ounce bottles from room temperature to 41 degrees in approximately two-and-a-half hours. That's 40 percent faster than a standard home refrigerator.
• Multi-Panel Vista Roof™ – It not only brightens the interior, it gives Flex occupants seated in each row their own skylight.
• EasyFuel™ System – Flex's capless fuel filler saves time by doing away with unscrewing and replacing a fuel-filler cap and provides a better seal, cutting down the emissions of smog-forming vapors.
• Ford SYNC™, Ford's industry-exclusive, voice-activated hands-free in-car communications and entertainment system. This available system fully integrates mobile phones and digital media players into the vehicle.
• The SYNC in-car communications system was developed in collaboration wîth Microsoft and will be offered exclusively on Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles this year.
Big wheels – Standard 18-inch or available 19-inch bright aluminum wheels that plant the crossover firmly on the road.
Ford's exclusive second-generation door-entry keypad – Housed within the vehicle's black B pillars, the flat-panel, backlit keypad eliminates the need for door-mounted buttons and gives customers the ability to unlock doors, disarm the alarm system and disable the auto-lock function by entering a five-digit code.
Source - Ford
2011 Ford Ranger Wildtrak
All-New High-Tech Ford Ranger Wildtrak Makes Global Debut in Geneva
• All-new Ford Ranger Wildtrak pick-up takes its rightful place among leading lifestyle vehicles wîth distinctive contemporary styling and image
• Powerful new Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engines deliver strong, refined performance and outstanding fuel economy
• Wildtrak's class-leading towing capability of up to 3350 kg and a payload capacity of 1112 kg prove that the Ford Ranger heritage of toughness is still going strong
• New global Ford Ranger expected to be a leader in safety with new side curtain airbags for head protection and thorax-protecting front-seat side airbags as standard across all cab styles in Europe
• Ranger Wildtrak among the most high-tech compact pickups with smart technologies such as Bluetooth® Voice Control and Rear View Camera system
• With a best-in-class water-wading capability of up to 800 mm and a ground clearance of up to 230 mm, Ranger is the perfect companion for off-road adventure
March 1, 2010 – The all-new Ford Ranger Wildtrak makes its global debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, a sporty compact pick-up that delivers impressive power and safety, excellent fuel efficiency and significant capability. It exudes a powerful presence bolstered by the latest in-car comfort and technologies.
The new global Ford Ranger boasts an extensive range of class-leading 'smart' features that make it easier, safer and more fun to drive than ever. It also sports a unique Rear View Camera System – the camera image is displayed in the rear view mirror – which dramatically improves visibility and simplifies hooking up to a trailer.
Aiming to deliver class-leading safety, new Ranger utilises a whole suite of technologies, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), to keep its wheels sturdily planted on the road under all conditions. Despite being an enormously capable vehicle, the Ranger is also fitted with technologies such as satellite navigation and Bluetooth® voice control, more commonly found on premium or luxury cars.
Building on Ranger's long-standing heritage of capability, the all-new model extends Ford's credibility further, with selected European versions achieving a best-in-class towing capacity of 3350 kg. Ranger models fitted with the 2.2-litre Ford Duratorq TDCi diesel engine also have an outstanding payload capacity of up to 1333 kg.
New from the ground up – with everything changed except its name – new Ranger is the first commercial vehicle to be built under the One Ford strategy as part of a global product program, bringing together the full engineering expertise of Ford around the world.
Designed and developed in Australia, Ranger will be offered as a complete family of compact pick-ups with three different cab body styles, 4x2 and 4x4 drive trains, two ride heights and up to five series choices to suit every pocket and market. It will be produced in Thailand, South Africa and Argentina for more than 180 markets worldwide.
'From the introduction of the Ranger brand to Europe in 1997, the Ford Ranger has been a major player in the European pick-up segment,' said Jesus Alonso, Ford of Europe's Director for Commercial Vehicle Marketing, Sales and Service. 'This all-new global model offers high-level technologies and impressive efficiency and safety. We are starting a new chapter in the Ranger success story.'
21st century tough styling
Toned, taut and muscular, the all-new Ranger is designed to look powerful and confident, equally at home on a construction site or outside a high-class restaurant. Its front end features a short overhang with the signature three-bar grille, a global Ford commercial vehicle design cue. The windscreen has also been raked back for a sportier and more dynamic silhouette, creating a modern and aerodynamic look.
The beltline, along with the rails of the load box, were raised significantly – giving Ranger a substantive presence on the road while increasing its functionality with the deeper box. Larger headlamps, bigger mirrors and stamped-in wheel lips provide an integrated look across all series and contribute to an aggressive and sporty stance.
The Wildtrak version takes Ranger's sporty appearance even further, with a unique color split on the front. Designers masked out the feature line on the fascia and contrasted it by highlighting the lower intake. The same accent colors were used on the side mirrors, door handles and side air vents to give the vehicle a dark sporty look.
'Wildtrak's aggressive look and bold new graphics are a perfect fit for those who appreciate a sporty and more expressive image. It will look fantastic transporting the latest quad bike or jet ski for their weekend getaways,' said Craig Metros, chief designer of the all-new Ranger.
Sitting high on 18-inch alloy wheels, the Wildtrak also comes with a roof rack and a sports hoop which enhance its profile. Exclusive Wildtrak badging and graphics help to set it apart from other lifestyle vehicles.
Car-like levels of comfort and features
The purposeful interior of the Wildtrak echoes the dark sporty look of the outside. A special hydrographic finish on the centre console around the audio is reminiscent of strong but lightweight materials like carbon fibre.
The seat trim – a combination of leather and woven cloth inspired by sportswear with ventilated sections – provides lateral support and confidence even on rough terrain. Contrast stitching and a discreet strip on the seat upper and bolster, all in distinctive Wildtrak Orange, accentuate the premium feel of the interior.
The cabin of Ranger has been stretched to provide segment-leading spaciousness and comfort. Three passengers can easily fit in the second row of the Wildtrak, for instance. It offers ample knee room and better foot clearance between the B-pillar and the seat. This means that getting in and out of the new Ranger is easier than ever for rear-seat passengers.
With 23 storage spaces in the cabin, Ranger offers more practical stowage than any competitor. A deep centre console bin will keep up to six cans of beverage cool, while the glove box is large enough to accommodate a 16-inch laptop computer. Ample storage for mobile phones and other small items can be found in the console.
Also poised to be a leader in innovation, Ranger Wildtrak comes with Bluetooth® audio streaming, USB and iPod connectivity. There is voice control over the radio, CD, iPod, USB, air-conditioning and phone and the software recognises English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese and Turkish. It also offers a five-inch color screen with satellite navigation.
More power, more torque, more economy
European customers will have a choice of two state-of-the-art common-rail Ford Duratorq TDCi diesels and new fuel-efficient six-speed transmissions that serve up more power and torque.
The new 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel delivers peak torque output of 375 Nm and power output of 110 kW (150 PS), whilst a highly responsive and efficient new 3.2-litre 5-cylinder diesel powers the Wildtrak and produces a powerful 470 Nm of torque is power rated at 147 kW (200PS). Both new powertrains have been developed and refined to deliver excellent fuel economy that is among the best in class. Fitted with an 80-litre fuel tank, Ranger is also expected to have one of the longest ranges in its segment.
Transmissions and final drive ratios have been carefully matched to deliver exceptional acceleration, excellent fuel efficiency and a quiet ride.
The new six-speed automatic transmission has been extensively tuned to deliver smooth, quick shifts that are almost imperceptible to the driver, reinforcing new Ranger's car-like refinement. In Normal mode, the calibration focuses on comfort and fuel economy. For sportier driving, a quick flick of the shifter changes the transmission to Performance mode, providing later shift points and giving the driver the option to select gears manually through a forward (downshift) or rearward (upshift) movement.
New Ranger also features smart Ford technologies such as Adaptive Automatic Mode, which adapts gear shifts according to driving style and Grade Control Logic, which automatically downshifts when driving downhill and the brake pedal is depressed. This feature prevents the transmission from changing to a higher gear.
For those who prefer greater involvement, the six-speed manual transmission with its short, car-like shifter, provides crisp and precise shifting matched perfectly to the generous torque output of the new diesels. An upshift indicator in the instrument panel helps coach drivers on the best gearing for optimum fuel economy.
Extensive work has gone into making the new global Ford Ranger more fuel-efficient than ever. Using the same cutting-edge simulation technology as Formula One teams, aerodynamicists performed more than 1,000 full-vehicle aerodynamic simulations to perfect the shape of the vehicle for fuel economy. Using Smart Regenerative Charging, Ranger is the first to be equipped with a battery management system, which controls the alternator so that it shuts off during acceleration and turns on during deceleration. This improves fuel economy as the alternator is not charging the battery all the time as in a typical vehicle.
Advanced safety protection
Although the Euro NCAP testing will not take place until later this year, Ford is forecasting that the new Ranger will be a leader in safety for its segment.
Like all contemporary Ford products, Ranger is engineered to provide comprehensive safety protection, starting with the highly protective body structure utilising high-strength steel throughout to protect occupants in a collision and the all-new frame that manages the brunt of crash energy. Engineers used sophisticated computer modelling to go through more than 9,000 full-vehicle crash simulations before the first prototype vehicle was subjected to a physical crash test.
Standard on all cab styles in Europe for the first time, side curtain airbags deploy from the headliner to provide a protective cushion for the head of occupants in case of a side impact. The curtain is designed to protect both rows of occupants by covering the upper side structure and glass from the A-pillar to the C-pillar. New side airbags available for the front seats also deploy from the side bolster of the seat to protect the thorax from side-impact forces, working in tandem with the front airbags for the driver and front passenger. Knee airbags are also standard across all models.
Other passive safety technologies include three-point safety belts for all seating positions, with pre-tensioners and load limiter for the front seats, as well as Ford BeltMinder technology which helps remind front-seat occupants to wear their belts.
Ranger also uses active safety technologies to help drivers avoid accidents. A key component is the ESP which comes with a full suite of features that make driving the Ranger even safer. The Trailer Sway Control system monitors the behavior of the tow vehicle and trailer array to sense the advent of trailer sway and apply braking countermeasures to reduce its effects. Adaptive Load Control provides additional stability assurance for drivers dealing with heavy payloads. When driving downhill, Hill Descent Control ensures that the brakes will be applied to control the vehicle at a set speed. Or when stopping on a steep grade, Hill Launch Assist helps the driver to pull his full load away confidently without creeping.
An array of braking technologies work together to ensure the shortest possible stopping distance under all circumstances, such as the Anti-Lock Brake System, Emergency Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution which maximises brake force used on the rear wheels as payload changes while maintaining optimal stability. During emergency braking, the hazard lights also come on to warn other motorists.
On top of safety technologies, the new Ranger has been engineered with pedestrian protection features. Technologies that emerged from a global Ford research project on pedestrian-friendly vehicle designs, have now been applied to a pick-up for the first time ever. This includes a 'hexageneous' under-bonnet structure to reduce the potential for pedestrian head injuries, and a pedestrian-friendly front bumper design incorporating energy-absorbing materials. Other new Ranger technologies include Rear Park Assist and the Rear View Camera System.
A steadfast companion for adventure
With an all-new chassis frame, front and rear suspension and steering system, the new Ranger promises car-like comfort, reduced steering effort, more precise handling and better on-road stability. Even on narrow city streets, the pick-up's tight turning circle makes it easily manoeuvrable despite sitting on an increased wheelbase.
For those who need a dependable vehicle for off-road adventures, the Wildtrak fits the bill perfectly with a stiffer frame, ground clearance of up to 230 mm and driveline components strategically mounted above the frame rail out of harm's way. The Wildtrak can also go deeper than any other compact pickup, with the ability to wade through up to 800 mm of water – a class-leading feature.
Both automatic and manual four-wheel drive models are equipped with a proven electronically controlled transfer case that allows drivers to shift on the move from 4x2 to 4x4 any time via a switch conveniently located on the console. If extra torque at the wheels or additional downhill braking is needed, low-range gearing can also be enabled. In order to suit various customers' needs, Ranger can be ordered with a wide range of final drive ratios.
The Ranger's ESP system includes off-road logic which recognises when the pick-up is driven on rough roads and modifies the system to ensure the best balance between stability and timeliness of interventions. In 4x4 models, the ESP system can be partially switched off to disable over- and understeer control as well as engine torque reductions, while maintaining the brake intervention traction control. This setting is most suitable when driving through deep sand or extreme mud as vehicle momentum can be maintained whilst maximising available grip. The ESP can be switched to a second setting to further amend the ESP braking intervention that aids the initial pull away in snow and icy conditions.
When the terrain gets really rough and Ranger is in four-wheel drive low gearing, it provides the driver with more control through the accelerator pedal, which becomes damped and less sensitive. This prevents unintentional acceleration due to the bouncing motion of the driver's foot while moving over bumpy terrain.
'The all-new Ranger is a very capable and composed vehicle both on- and off-road,' said Jesus Alonso. 'It has been designed as a global vehicle and combines the best of all worlds – exceptional safety, outstanding fuel economy, contemporary styling, interior comfort, cutting edge technologies, and class-leading towing and payload capabilities – in a one-tonne package that fits right in with a sporty lifestyle.'
Source - Ford
2011 Ford Edge by K-Daddyz Kustomz
With a touch of urban luxury, this K-Daddyz Kustomz Edge boasts 22-inch wheels with radically lowered suspension. This Edge is ready to cruise the coast, with a custom paint scheme featuring airbrushing and pin striping, along with a custom surfboard rack and panoramic sunroof. The leather and suede interior comes with Dual Head restraint DVD by INVISION™, and puts the finishing details on the crossover.
Ford Display at SEMA
•The all-new Ford Explorer is bringing its reinvented style to this year's SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show, which will be held Nov. 2-5 in Las Vegas
•The all-new, capable, fuel-efficient Ford Explorer provides a perfect base for customizers to create ultimate versions of the modern SÚV, including an ultra-luxury Bond Explorer wîth iPad, an Explorer for outdoor adventurers, and the Funkmaster Flex urban SÚV
•Customized versions of Ford Taurus SHO, Edge and Fusion Sport also will be showcased, along with the all-new 2011 Lincoln MKX
Dearborn, Mich., Oct. 14, 2010 – The all-new Ford Explorer has been turning heads with its eye-catching, modern design, and things will be no different when it hits the floor of the SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) show this year, which will be held Nov. 2-5 in Las Vegas.
'It's so new and reinvented, and the styling is standout from the inside out,' said Craig Patterson, Ford Explorer marketing manager. 'Explorer is the perfect choice for people to accessorize. Those who want to customize it are starting from a great base that is extremely well received, and that's where the attraction lies.'
For the 2010 SEMA show, Explorer will take to the Ford stand along with customized versions of Ford Taurus SHO, Edge and Fusion Sport, as well as the all-new Lincoln MKX. The Explorers on the show floor will open up customers' minds as to the possibilities that can be created with the all-new SÚV.
'We designed three different images for the Explorers at SEMA,' said Melvin Betancourt, Ford specialty design manager. 'The new Explorer resonates as a modern SÚV, so the modifications play off all the great technology and features that the vehicle is equipped with.'
Vital Stats
6-speed Automatic
An Explorer customized by Funkmaster Flex and Team Baurtwell shows off the urban appeal of the new SÚV, and comes standard wîth street cred inside and out. The look is highlighted by three-piece forged billet wheels, which are complemented by 24-inch Cooper tires. Baer brakes provide the stopping power.
The design that sets this Explorer apart starts wîth the exterior, wîth custom touches from Team Baurtwell and Funkmaster Flex including custom logos. The interior offers Katzkin two-tone leather seats wîth custom interior accents and Funkmaster Flex logos. A Sony Xplod audio system ensures customers have the ultimate listening experience.
Source - Ford
2004 Ford F150 Iron Man by Deberti Designs
The Iron Man takes "Built Ford Tough" to a new level, featuring modified fenders, tailgate, inner bed, grille, rocker panels, skid guard and exhaust. It also features a complete color change and a custom DeBerti interior.
Source - Ford Motor Company
FORD REINFORCES COMMITMENT TO AFTERMARKET IN LARGEST PRESENCE EVER AT 2003 SEMA SHOW
The new all-aluminum 5.0L DOHC 'Cammer' V8 crate engine fed wîth four 2-barrel Weber carbureters.
Ford is unveiling 19 customized concept vehicles – most of them based on the top-selling F-150 pickup – and reaffirming in a major way its industry-leading relationship with the growing aftermarket at this year's Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show.
As the official 'manufacturer of show' this year, Ford unveiled the largest ever exhibit from an auto manufacturer – a 65,000-foot display space highlighted by 14 customized versions of its all-new 2004 Ford F-150 – and teased visitors with a preview of the next-generation 2005 Ford Mustang.
Ford also announced the continuation of its Ford/SEMA Technology Initiative, which provides SEMA members with advanced access to future-product information. The relationship includes giving computer-aided design (CAD) data to aid aftermarket companies in the design and engineering of customized parts well in advance of a new vehicle's introduction.
This successful information sharing already has allowed aftermarket companies to market and sell more than 100 items available on the 2004 F-150, as well as begin the engineering work necessary to prepare for the launch of customized parts for the next-generation 2005 Mustang next year.
'U.S. consumers spend $27 billion annually in aftermarket parts and service, and more than a third of that is on light trucks,' says Phil Martens, Ford's group vice president of Product Creation. 'Ford has been on the ground floor in helping to fuel the aftermarket's growth, and we intend to remain a leader in the future with hot aftermarket products like the all-new F-150 and the next-generation Mustang coming next year.
'At Ford, we're introducing the largest wave of new products in our history – from the new F-150 and next year's Mustang to several all-new products in new segments,' Martens continues. 'We intend to have hot product news every year that SEMA members will love.'
In addition to news about these vehicles, Ford announced several product and marketing ventures to further strengthen the company's leadership in performance, racing and specialty vehicles:
Three concepts powered by Ford's all-new 5.0-liter 'Cammer' V-8 engine, which will be available through Ford Racing Performance Parts dealers or warehouse distributors beginning in 2004.
All-new Focus and Ranger concepts that foretell soon-to-be-available custom body kits, interior enhancements and powertrain upgrades for the aftermarket.
An innovative marketing relationship between Ford Motor Company and Revolution Studios to bring more hot Ford vehicles to a movie theater near you.
Source - Ford Motor Company
2001 Ford Urban Explorer Concept
Sold for $33,000 at 2010 RM Auctions.
The Urban Explorer edition is a sport utility that was meant to remain on the pavement. It is a multi-functional mode of transportation that met the cargo, passenger, and load-carrying needs. It has four-wheel drive and a 4.6-liter all-aluminum SOHC V8 engine delivering 240 horsepower. There is a five-speed automatic gearbox with overdrive and four-wheel hydraulic power disc brakes.
The Urban Explorer Concept has a lowered suspension and understated side-cladding, the latter doubling as protection against stone chips. There are eye-catching, five-spoke 20-inch wheelbase that are housed within wide wheel flares, giving it a sporty stance.
the front fascia has an integrated, uniquely-styled driving lamps and functional brake cooling ducts. The rear fascia has center-exiting dual exhaust with bright-polished tail-pipe tips. A roof-spoiler on the trailing edge of the lift-gate replaces the standard SUV roof-rack.
Inside, there are quad-sport bucket seats and a thick-rim sport steering wheel. There are a full front-to-rear center console, a unique sport gauge cluster and new molded interior badging. The high contrast interior color theme is black and lime green with iridescent piping.
In 2010, this vehicle was offered for sale at the 'Sports & Classics of Monterey' presented by RM Auctions. The car was estimated to sell for $30,000 - $50,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $33,000 inclusive of buyer's premium.
Source: Internet
1969 Shelby Mustang GT350 Hertz
This 1969 Shelby GT350 Hertz was offered for sale at the 2006 Worldwide Group Auction held on Hilton Head Island where it was expected to sell between $100,000-$125,000. It is one of 150 350GT Hertz cars that were built in 1969. It is finished in Black Jade paint scheme and equipped with a Cleveland 351 V8 that is rated at over 300 horsepower. The engine is mated to a FMX Cruise-O-Matic gearbox. The GT350 Hertz has power steering, power front disc brakes, Traction Lok, Selectair Air Conditioning, tinted glass, deluxe seat belts, tilt-away wheel, AM radio, combination tachometer and trip meter, and a sport-deck rear seat. At the conclusion of the auction, this vehicle was sold for $101,200.
The first year of sales for the GT350 models were good but they weren't great. In an effort to stimulate even more sales for 1966, Carroll Shelby asked Peyton Cramer, his marketing man and general manager, to try some fleet sales. To everybody's amazement, the Hertz Rental Car Company purchased 1000 cars. The Hertz Company had founded 'The Hertz Sports Car Club' which provided a limited number of high performance rental cars to customers. The cars could be rented by virtually anyone, as long as they were over the age of 25 and were capable of operating and controlling these machines. Most of the cars were adorned in black paint with gold stripes. The first batch of cars were equipped with manual transmission but the company quickly changed that policy to automatics after many cars were returned in less-than-perfect condition. It was not uncommon to see these cars raced on the tracks during the weekend and returned a few days latter with a little less rubber on the tires and the owners grinning from cheek-to-cheek.
For 1969 the Mustang was given a makeover. The hood was constructed of fiberglass and was fitted with five NACA style hood scoops and locking hood pins. Under the hood was a Cleveland 351 cubic-inch V8 that was rated at 300 horsepower. In the front was a black recessed grille with two fitted headlights. The wheels were five-spoke aluminum and fitted to Goodyear Polyglas GT radial tires.
In 1969 for only $12 a day, an individual could rent one of these cars from the Hertz rental store as part of their 'Rent-A-Racer' program. Or they could get the car for $60 a week plus 11 cents a mile.
In 1969 a total of 150 examples were produced.
Source: Internet
Mustang History
The Mustang was introduced at the 1965 New York World's Fair, Mustang Mania instantly swept the country, and a new automotive market segment was created - the 2+2 or better known as the 'ponycar.' Though its mechanical underpinnings descended from the Falcon, the Mustang was completely different. It was a compact, tight, clean package weighing in at a modest 2,550 pounds - a departure from the ever-enlarging American cars of the day. The classic long-hood short-rear-deck combined with a forward-leaning grille, elegant blade bumpers, sculptured body sides, fully exposed wheel openings and restrained use of bright trim gave the car a unique look that belied its affordability. Its looks were backed up with power, providing three optional V8 engines with up to 271 horsepower. Other options included automatic transmission, power steering and brakes, styled chrome wheels and air conditioning. Not surprisingly, the entry-level modes were a minority of the production.
To say that the first Mustang was a success is an understatement. Following the introduction, the Mustang was on the cover of both Time and Newsweek. A week before introduction, Ford ran ads with the air times for the first television commercials, which all three networks broadcasted simultaneously. Mustang was selected as the Official Pace Car for the 1964 Indianapolis 500, and more than 22,000 orders were taken the first day. By its first anniversary, over 418,000 Mustangs had been sold, breaking the all-time record for first year sales of a new nameplate.
The original platform was used, with numerous modifications, up to 1973. The Pinto-based Mustang II was built from 1974 until 1978. A new fox body platform began in 1979 and was largely unchanged through 1993. In 1994 the SN-95, a modified version of the Fox body, debuted and was produced until 2004. The 2005 Mustang is built on the first entirely new platform in 25 years.
1964 1/2 - 1973 The Growing Years - In More Ways Than One.Until 1967, Mustang had this new market all to itself. For 1965 a new 2+2 Fastback model added as was the GT Equipment Group. Both performance and aesthetically minded, this group included front disk brakes; grille-mounted fog lights, 5-gauge instrumentation, GT stripes and badges and special dual 'trumpet' exhaust outlets. 1966 brought a huge shot in the arm to the ponycar moniker - the first Shelby GT 350. Built on the 2+2 Fastback by famed racer/car builder Carroll Shelby, these cars featured race-tuned engines and suspensions. By mid-1966, Mustang passed the one-million sales mark.
On the track, the Mustang name was quickly establishing itself in many motorsports arenas. In 1965, Mustang assumed the role as Ford's rally car. Carroll Shelby, famed builder of the Cobra, created race-ready cars for SCCA's production class B competition against the likes of Chevrolet's Corvette and the Jaguar E-Type. Shelby's goal was accomplished when the GT 350 took the B-Production Championship from Corvette. Shelby Mustangs were also successful in the world of drag racing. Ford campaigned several highly modified A/FX altered Mustangs equipped with 427 'Cammer' motors in National Hot Rod Association drag racing events. 1966 brought the creation of the SCCA Trans Am professional racing series for V-8 sedans of 305 cubic inches or less. Mustang took the Trans Am Manufacturers' Cup in 1966. The Shelby GT 350 repeated the previous year's success as B-Production Champion.
With the introduction of Chevy's Camaro, Pontiac's Firebird, and Ford's sister division 2+2, the Mercury Cougar, the rest of the industry both brought serious competition to the Mustang and further legitimized the 2+2 'ponycar' market. Ford foresaw the coming competition, and designed the 1967 Mustang to accommodate its 390 cubic-inch V8. In addition to the mechanical changes, the Mustang was restyled inside and out. This began the era of the growing Mustang, as it gained a couple inches in length and width nearly every year until 1973. A GT 350 H was introduced, a special edition made specifically for Hertz Rent-A-Car outlets. Stories of 'Rent-A-Racers' being returned with telltale signs of racing use are still told today. The options list grew as well, and Ford's largest engine quickly went from the 390 to the 428 Cobra Jet. Shelby also upped the ante with the GT 500 in 1967 and the GT 500 KR ('King of the Road') in 1968. The GT 350 also continued on. In racing, despite new competition from the Camaro, Plymouth Barracuda, and Mercury Cougar, Mustang again won the Trans Am Manufacturers' Cup. Capping the year, Shelby's GT 350 once again took the SCCA B-Production crown. Perhaps the most famous Mustang of the time was the 1968 Highland Green 390 Mustang fastback driven by Steve McQueen in the movie Bullitt. Many still consider the final chase scene to be the best ever filmed.
The car again grew larger and heavier in 1969, and the grille sprouted four headlights. Also introduced in 1969, the Boss 302 - brain child of former GM designer Larry Shinoda - was a special version of Ford's 302 cubic-inch engine with larger canted valve heads for better efficiency and more power. The rarest Mustang by far was the Boss 429, built for the sole purpose of qualifying the new 'Semi-Hemi' engine for NASCAR racing. Only 857 Boss 429 Mustangs were built. More competition arrived in 1970 with the Dodge Challenger and a redesigned Plymouth Barracuda. The Boss 429 was discontinued after only 499 copies were made. 1970 also marked the end of the GT 350 and GT 500.
1970 would be Ford's last year for factory-sponsored racing until the 1980s. The Trans Am series boasted the most competitive field ever in both the driving talent and the cars. Ford's Boss 302 team, led by Parnelli Jones and George Follmer, took on AMC's Mark Donahue, Camaro driver Jim Hall, Pontiac's Jerry Titus, Dan Gurney's All American Racers and their Plymouth Barracuda, Sam Posey in the all-new Dodge Challenger. The competition was fierce and well matched throughout the series. In the end, the Mustang team was triumphant allowing Ford to go out on top.
By 1971, the car had become nearly 8 inches longer and 6 inches wider than the original 1965 model. Mustang was now a full-fledged muscle car, moving beyond the 2+2 market niche it created. The Grande and Mach 1 returned, however, the Boss 302 was replaced by the Boss 351. Engine choices ranged from six cylinder economy to the mighty 429 Super Cobra Jet V-8. Many forces converged by 1973 that signaled a change from the fast-and-furious start of the 2+2. Soaring gas and insurance costs and the addition of emissions and safety equipment brought the muscle car era to an end, and Ford began positioning the Mustang as a luxury car. The end of 1973 would begin a hiatus for both the V-8 engine and the convertible.
1974 - 1978 A Mustang Trapped in a Pinto's Body.
Lee Iacocca, then president of Ford and instrumental in the design of the first Mustang, had long been unhappy wîth Mustang's direction. The car got progressively bigger and sales dipped. Any questions about returning to a smaller Mustang were answered by the first OPEC oil embargo in 1973, which spurred an immediate run on fuel-efficient cars. The Mustang II was introduced mid year in 1973 as a 1974 model. Built on the Pinto platform, the Mustang II was substantially smaller than the prior model and even smaller than the original. Rack and pinion §teering and front disk brakes were made standard. Engine choices were limited to a 2.3 liter four cylinder and a 2.8 V-6. This would be the first year for a four and the only year without an available V-8. The coup and fastback would soldier on without the convertible - which would not return for twelve years. The Mach 1 continued on, but had dropped from nearly 7 robust lines (429 cubic inches) to 2.8 liters and 105 horsepower. The formula seemed to work, however - Mustang II got over 20 MPG and sold 385,000 for the model year.
1975 brought the return of the 302 (5.0 Liter) V-8 however at only 122 horsepower. Other than increasing this to 139 horsepower in the Cobra II, most changes through 1978 were limited to trim and option packages. After its initial year, sales remained consistent at around 150,000 to 190,000 and earned the marque a new lease on life.
1979-1993 The Speed of a Horse wîth the Smarts of a Fox.
Based on the Ford Fairmont, the 'Fox' body would be the longest running platform in Mustang history. As an example, the doors of a 1979 can be interchanged with those of a 1993. The Fox body also brought modern design and a renewed commitment to performance. A 2.3 Liter four cylinder was again standard with upgrades of a turbocharged four, 2.8 Liter V6 and 5.0 Liter V8. Mustang paced the 1979 Indianapolis 500 and nearly 370,000 units were sold.
1981 saw the addition of the T-Roof Convertible and 1982 brought the return of the GT with a revised 5.0 High-Output V-8 rated at 157 horsepower. Ford's resurgent racing program blasted out of the gates with International MotorSports Association (IMSA) GT racing, where the turbocharged Miller Mustang, driven by Klaus Ludwig, came within a 10th of a second of winning its first race over the dominant Porsche 935 Turbos. Ludwig was only getting started. He handed the vaunted Porsches defeat with back-to-back victories at Brainerd and Sears Point. Elsewhere, Tom Gloy put a Mustang in the Trans-Am winner's circle for the first time in a decade when he won the 1981 season finale at Sears Point. In SCCA road racing, Mustang became the first domestic car ever to win the Showroom Stock national championship when Ron Smaldone drove his turbo Mustang to victory at Road Atlanta.
The big news for 1983 was the mid-year introduction of the first true Mustang convertible in a decade, which accounted for 20,000 sales in the short 6 month season. On the performance front, the 5.0 V8 bumped up to 205 horsepower. For Mustang's 20th Anniversary, in 1984, Ford offered the most interesting line up in years. The GT was back in hatchback and convertible, and a new European-inspired Mustang SVO debuted. Developed by the Special Vehicle Operations department, the limited edition model was powered by a fuel injected intercooled 175 horsepower four cylinder engine. The SVO also featured unique exterior appointments, an upgraded interior, and was also the most expensive model.
By 1984, Ford had staked out the IMSA GTO series as Mustang turf. Jack Roush, the Carroll Shelby of the eighties, came on the scene wîth hot racers. A Roush-prepared Mustang won the GTO class in the three-hour IMSA 1984 season finale at Daytona. It was the beginning of Mustangs reign as the king of GTO. The following February, Mustang won the GTO classes at Daytona 24 Hours - the first of three consecutive victories in the season-opening marathon.
Mustang received a facelift for 1985, and horsepower continued to climb. The 5.0 H.O V-8 was increased to 210, and the SVO squeezed 205 horsepower out of a 2.3 liter engine. This would be the rarest SVO model as only 1,954 were built. The V-8 switched to fuel injection in 1986, the year that restyling of both the interior and exterior, and a bump in the GT horsepower to 255. The Roush Mustangs carried on the winning tradition in 1986 with eight more GTO wins and another manufacturers' title. In drag racing, Rickie Smith drove his Motorcraft Mustangs to the semifinals or better at all 11 races on the International Hot Rod Association schedule, and took the IHRA Pro Stock world championship.
1998 was a pivotal year in Mustang history. Ford planned to change the Mustang to a front wheel drive derivative of the Mazda MX-6. An uprising in the Mustang enthusiast community ensued, as did some pointed questions from the automotive press. Thousands of letters decrying the idea of a 'Maztang' or 'Musda' beseiged Ford's product planners and the new car went on to be the Probe. Ford scrapped the idea at the last minute, cementing the Mustang heritage for the future. The decision however locked in the Fox platform for the next five years.
From 1989 to 1992 changes were limited to wheel and tire combinations and the introduction of 'Special Edition' models in non-standard colors. 1993 would be the final year of the original Fox body Mustang. Ford re-introduced the Cobra, rated at 235 horsepower and distinguished by unique front and rear bodywork. 107 Cobra R models were built which included track tuned suspension and deleted the rear seat, radio, fog lights and other components to reduce weight.
1994-2004 Refining the Breed.
Mustang celebrated its 30th Anniversary with an all new body and interior for 1994, calling on design cues from the Mustang's first decade. The 2.3 liter four was retired and the 3.8 V-6 became the base engine. The GT retained the 5.0 V-8 and the SVT Cobra returned, now with 240 horsepower. The Mustang Cobra served as pace car for the 1994 Indianapolis 500 and a limited series of the Rio Red pace car replicas were sold.
Mustang was an immediate hit and remained unchanged while Ford continued to fill orders. Another Cobra R was released, this time with a 300 horsepower 351 cubic inch (5.4 liter) V-8 and Tremec 5 speed manual transmission The R model was sold nearly race-ready wîth a revised suspension and fuel cell. The rear seat, radio, air-conditioning, power windows and seats were deleted to save weight. Only 250 units were built which became instant collector's items.
In 1989 the Trans-Am series was again attractive to American muscle, though the cars only look like a Mustang - the underpinnings were that of a purpose-built race chassis built to modern motorsports standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) The Mustang dominated in 1995, 1996, 1997 and again in 1999. Ironically, the 1999 driver, who had switched to a Jaguar, kept the classic Ford pushrod V-8 underfoot and kept winning.
1996 ushered in Ford's long-anticipated modular engine program, which saw replacement of the venerable 5.0 with a 4.6 liter overhead cam V8 with 225 horsepower on tap. The Cobra utilized a dual overhead cam aluminum block version rated at 305 horsepower. A limited edition 'Mystic Cobra' was built with color shifting paint that changed from black to green to purple to gold as the light hit the car. The paint alone cost about $2,000.00 per car. The Mustang carried over basically unchanged from 1997 and 1998.
Mustang's 35th year was marked with a new sharp-edged body. The base V-6 was now rated at 195 horsepower (more than the original 5.0 H.O. of 1982). The GT's 4.6 was upgraded to 260 horsepower, while the dual cam Cobra was now pumping out 320. One of the benefits of the redesign was the inclusion of a fully independent rear suspension on the Cobra, the first for a production model. The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix marked the occasion by making Mustang the spotlight car of the America car show.
For 2000, the only Cobra for the year was a new R model. Wilder than any previous Mustang, the R featured a dual overhead cam 5.4 liter monster rated at 385 horsepower. A six-speed gearbox and 18-inch wheels and tires moved the power to the ground. Outside, the R was immediately recognizable by its domed hood, front air dam and rear wing spoiler. Only 300 Cobra Rs were built. The remaining Mustangs carried over from the prior year.
SVT was back with a new Cobra in the spring of 2002. Once again SVT topped their previous efforts with a supercharged dual cam 4.6 that Ford rated at 390 horsepower. Testers found this number to be greatly understated, as the actual output was closer to 425. The Cobra models also carried a SVT 10th anniversary badge.
The Mach 1 returned as a special edition for 2003 for the first time since 1978, and featured a functional ram air 'shaker' hood scoop and a modern interpretation of the Magnum 500 wheels used on the original 1969 models. The GT and base models continued unchanged.
2005 A new beginning with a nod to the past.
Vital Stats
Engine : 8-cylinder
Power: 550 hp
Built on its own platform which borrows slightly from the Lincoln LS, the body shape combines styling cues from some of the most memorable Mustangs of the past. From the front, 1967-1969 Mustangs come to mind. The side quarter windows recall the 1966 Shelby GT 350 and the rear retains the tri-part tail lights and faux gas filler which was a Mustang trademark from 1964-1/2 to 1973. On the performance side, the GT now comes wîth a three valve per cylinder 4.6 wîth 300 horsepower. The base motor is now a 4.0 rated at 210 horsepower. Ford has previewed the 2007 Shelby Cobra GT 500 which is slated for late 2006. As shown, the GT 500 includes a supercharged 5.4 liter engine rated at 450 horsepower making it the most powerful Mustang ever built.41 years have passed since April 17, 1964. As in the beginning, Mustang stands alone having outlived all of the challengers created in its wake, and have revolutionized an entire segmènt of the American automotive market. Its fans can expect many more happy years for the original ponycar.
Source: Internet
To say that the first Mustang was a success is an understatement. Following the introduction, the Mustang was on the cover of both Time and Newsweek. A week before introduction, Ford ran ads with the air times for the first television commercials, which all three networks broadcasted simultaneously. Mustang was selected as the Official Pace Car for the 1964 Indianapolis 500, and more than 22,000 orders were taken the first day. By its first anniversary, over 418,000 Mustangs had been sold, breaking the all-time record for first year sales of a new nameplate.
The original platform was used, with numerous modifications, up to 1973. The Pinto-based Mustang II was built from 1974 until 1978. A new fox body platform began in 1979 and was largely unchanged through 1993. In 1994 the SN-95, a modified version of the Fox body, debuted and was produced until 2004. The 2005 Mustang is built on the first entirely new platform in 25 years.
1964 1/2 - 1973 The Growing Years - In More Ways Than One.Until 1967, Mustang had this new market all to itself. For 1965 a new 2+2 Fastback model added as was the GT Equipment Group. Both performance and aesthetically minded, this group included front disk brakes; grille-mounted fog lights, 5-gauge instrumentation, GT stripes and badges and special dual 'trumpet' exhaust outlets. 1966 brought a huge shot in the arm to the ponycar moniker - the first Shelby GT 350. Built on the 2+2 Fastback by famed racer/car builder Carroll Shelby, these cars featured race-tuned engines and suspensions. By mid-1966, Mustang passed the one-million sales mark.
On the track, the Mustang name was quickly establishing itself in many motorsports arenas. In 1965, Mustang assumed the role as Ford's rally car. Carroll Shelby, famed builder of the Cobra, created race-ready cars for SCCA's production class B competition against the likes of Chevrolet's Corvette and the Jaguar E-Type. Shelby's goal was accomplished when the GT 350 took the B-Production Championship from Corvette. Shelby Mustangs were also successful in the world of drag racing. Ford campaigned several highly modified A/FX altered Mustangs equipped with 427 'Cammer' motors in National Hot Rod Association drag racing events. 1966 brought the creation of the SCCA Trans Am professional racing series for V-8 sedans of 305 cubic inches or less. Mustang took the Trans Am Manufacturers' Cup in 1966. The Shelby GT 350 repeated the previous year's success as B-Production Champion.
With the introduction of Chevy's Camaro, Pontiac's Firebird, and Ford's sister division 2+2, the Mercury Cougar, the rest of the industry both brought serious competition to the Mustang and further legitimized the 2+2 'ponycar' market. Ford foresaw the coming competition, and designed the 1967 Mustang to accommodate its 390 cubic-inch V8. In addition to the mechanical changes, the Mustang was restyled inside and out. This began the era of the growing Mustang, as it gained a couple inches in length and width nearly every year until 1973. A GT 350 H was introduced, a special edition made specifically for Hertz Rent-A-Car outlets. Stories of 'Rent-A-Racers' being returned with telltale signs of racing use are still told today. The options list grew as well, and Ford's largest engine quickly went from the 390 to the 428 Cobra Jet. Shelby also upped the ante with the GT 500 in 1967 and the GT 500 KR ('King of the Road') in 1968. The GT 350 also continued on. In racing, despite new competition from the Camaro, Plymouth Barracuda, and Mercury Cougar, Mustang again won the Trans Am Manufacturers' Cup. Capping the year, Shelby's GT 350 once again took the SCCA B-Production crown. Perhaps the most famous Mustang of the time was the 1968 Highland Green 390 Mustang fastback driven by Steve McQueen in the movie Bullitt. Many still consider the final chase scene to be the best ever filmed.
The car again grew larger and heavier in 1969, and the grille sprouted four headlights. Also introduced in 1969, the Boss 302 - brain child of former GM designer Larry Shinoda - was a special version of Ford's 302 cubic-inch engine with larger canted valve heads for better efficiency and more power. The rarest Mustang by far was the Boss 429, built for the sole purpose of qualifying the new 'Semi-Hemi' engine for NASCAR racing. Only 857 Boss 429 Mustangs were built. More competition arrived in 1970 with the Dodge Challenger and a redesigned Plymouth Barracuda. The Boss 429 was discontinued after only 499 copies were made. 1970 also marked the end of the GT 350 and GT 500.
1970 would be Ford's last year for factory-sponsored racing until the 1980s. The Trans Am series boasted the most competitive field ever in both the driving talent and the cars. Ford's Boss 302 team, led by Parnelli Jones and George Follmer, took on AMC's Mark Donahue, Camaro driver Jim Hall, Pontiac's Jerry Titus, Dan Gurney's All American Racers and their Plymouth Barracuda, Sam Posey in the all-new Dodge Challenger. The competition was fierce and well matched throughout the series. In the end, the Mustang team was triumphant allowing Ford to go out on top.
By 1971, the car had become nearly 8 inches longer and 6 inches wider than the original 1965 model. Mustang was now a full-fledged muscle car, moving beyond the 2+2 market niche it created. The Grande and Mach 1 returned, however, the Boss 302 was replaced by the Boss 351. Engine choices ranged from six cylinder economy to the mighty 429 Super Cobra Jet V-8. Many forces converged by 1973 that signaled a change from the fast-and-furious start of the 2+2. Soaring gas and insurance costs and the addition of emissions and safety equipment brought the muscle car era to an end, and Ford began positioning the Mustang as a luxury car. The end of 1973 would begin a hiatus for both the V-8 engine and the convertible.
1974 - 1978 A Mustang Trapped in a Pinto's Body.
Lee Iacocca, then president of Ford and instrumental in the design of the first Mustang, had long been unhappy wîth Mustang's direction. The car got progressively bigger and sales dipped. Any questions about returning to a smaller Mustang were answered by the first OPEC oil embargo in 1973, which spurred an immediate run on fuel-efficient cars. The Mustang II was introduced mid year in 1973 as a 1974 model. Built on the Pinto platform, the Mustang II was substantially smaller than the prior model and even smaller than the original. Rack and pinion §teering and front disk brakes were made standard. Engine choices were limited to a 2.3 liter four cylinder and a 2.8 V-6. This would be the first year for a four and the only year without an available V-8. The coup and fastback would soldier on without the convertible - which would not return for twelve years. The Mach 1 continued on, but had dropped from nearly 7 robust lines (429 cubic inches) to 2.8 liters and 105 horsepower. The formula seemed to work, however - Mustang II got over 20 MPG and sold 385,000 for the model year.
1975 brought the return of the 302 (5.0 Liter) V-8 however at only 122 horsepower. Other than increasing this to 139 horsepower in the Cobra II, most changes through 1978 were limited to trim and option packages. After its initial year, sales remained consistent at around 150,000 to 190,000 and earned the marque a new lease on life.
1979-1993 The Speed of a Horse wîth the Smarts of a Fox.
Based on the Ford Fairmont, the 'Fox' body would be the longest running platform in Mustang history. As an example, the doors of a 1979 can be interchanged with those of a 1993. The Fox body also brought modern design and a renewed commitment to performance. A 2.3 Liter four cylinder was again standard with upgrades of a turbocharged four, 2.8 Liter V6 and 5.0 Liter V8. Mustang paced the 1979 Indianapolis 500 and nearly 370,000 units were sold.
1981 saw the addition of the T-Roof Convertible and 1982 brought the return of the GT with a revised 5.0 High-Output V-8 rated at 157 horsepower. Ford's resurgent racing program blasted out of the gates with International MotorSports Association (IMSA) GT racing, where the turbocharged Miller Mustang, driven by Klaus Ludwig, came within a 10th of a second of winning its first race over the dominant Porsche 935 Turbos. Ludwig was only getting started. He handed the vaunted Porsches defeat with back-to-back victories at Brainerd and Sears Point. Elsewhere, Tom Gloy put a Mustang in the Trans-Am winner's circle for the first time in a decade when he won the 1981 season finale at Sears Point. In SCCA road racing, Mustang became the first domestic car ever to win the Showroom Stock national championship when Ron Smaldone drove his turbo Mustang to victory at Road Atlanta.
The big news for 1983 was the mid-year introduction of the first true Mustang convertible in a decade, which accounted for 20,000 sales in the short 6 month season. On the performance front, the 5.0 V8 bumped up to 205 horsepower. For Mustang's 20th Anniversary, in 1984, Ford offered the most interesting line up in years. The GT was back in hatchback and convertible, and a new European-inspired Mustang SVO debuted. Developed by the Special Vehicle Operations department, the limited edition model was powered by a fuel injected intercooled 175 horsepower four cylinder engine. The SVO also featured unique exterior appointments, an upgraded interior, and was also the most expensive model.
By 1984, Ford had staked out the IMSA GTO series as Mustang turf. Jack Roush, the Carroll Shelby of the eighties, came on the scene wîth hot racers. A Roush-prepared Mustang won the GTO class in the three-hour IMSA 1984 season finale at Daytona. It was the beginning of Mustangs reign as the king of GTO. The following February, Mustang won the GTO classes at Daytona 24 Hours - the first of three consecutive victories in the season-opening marathon.
Mustang received a facelift for 1985, and horsepower continued to climb. The 5.0 H.O V-8 was increased to 210, and the SVO squeezed 205 horsepower out of a 2.3 liter engine. This would be the rarest SVO model as only 1,954 were built. The V-8 switched to fuel injection in 1986, the year that restyling of both the interior and exterior, and a bump in the GT horsepower to 255. The Roush Mustangs carried on the winning tradition in 1986 with eight more GTO wins and another manufacturers' title. In drag racing, Rickie Smith drove his Motorcraft Mustangs to the semifinals or better at all 11 races on the International Hot Rod Association schedule, and took the IHRA Pro Stock world championship.
1998 was a pivotal year in Mustang history. Ford planned to change the Mustang to a front wheel drive derivative of the Mazda MX-6. An uprising in the Mustang enthusiast community ensued, as did some pointed questions from the automotive press. Thousands of letters decrying the idea of a 'Maztang' or 'Musda' beseiged Ford's product planners and the new car went on to be the Probe. Ford scrapped the idea at the last minute, cementing the Mustang heritage for the future. The decision however locked in the Fox platform for the next five years.
From 1989 to 1992 changes were limited to wheel and tire combinations and the introduction of 'Special Edition' models in non-standard colors. 1993 would be the final year of the original Fox body Mustang. Ford re-introduced the Cobra, rated at 235 horsepower and distinguished by unique front and rear bodywork. 107 Cobra R models were built which included track tuned suspension and deleted the rear seat, radio, fog lights and other components to reduce weight.
1994-2004 Refining the Breed.
Mustang celebrated its 30th Anniversary with an all new body and interior for 1994, calling on design cues from the Mustang's first decade. The 2.3 liter four was retired and the 3.8 V-6 became the base engine. The GT retained the 5.0 V-8 and the SVT Cobra returned, now with 240 horsepower. The Mustang Cobra served as pace car for the 1994 Indianapolis 500 and a limited series of the Rio Red pace car replicas were sold.
Mustang was an immediate hit and remained unchanged while Ford continued to fill orders. Another Cobra R was released, this time with a 300 horsepower 351 cubic inch (5.4 liter) V-8 and Tremec 5 speed manual transmission The R model was sold nearly race-ready wîth a revised suspension and fuel cell. The rear seat, radio, air-conditioning, power windows and seats were deleted to save weight. Only 250 units were built which became instant collector's items.
In 1989 the Trans-Am series was again attractive to American muscle, though the cars only look like a Mustang - the underpinnings were that of a purpose-built race chassis built to modern motorsports standards. ( posted on conceptcarz.com) The Mustang dominated in 1995, 1996, 1997 and again in 1999. Ironically, the 1999 driver, who had switched to a Jaguar, kept the classic Ford pushrod V-8 underfoot and kept winning.
1996 ushered in Ford's long-anticipated modular engine program, which saw replacement of the venerable 5.0 with a 4.6 liter overhead cam V8 with 225 horsepower on tap. The Cobra utilized a dual overhead cam aluminum block version rated at 305 horsepower. A limited edition 'Mystic Cobra' was built with color shifting paint that changed from black to green to purple to gold as the light hit the car. The paint alone cost about $2,000.00 per car. The Mustang carried over basically unchanged from 1997 and 1998.
Mustang's 35th year was marked with a new sharp-edged body. The base V-6 was now rated at 195 horsepower (more than the original 5.0 H.O. of 1982). The GT's 4.6 was upgraded to 260 horsepower, while the dual cam Cobra was now pumping out 320. One of the benefits of the redesign was the inclusion of a fully independent rear suspension on the Cobra, the first for a production model. The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix marked the occasion by making Mustang the spotlight car of the America car show.
For 2000, the only Cobra for the year was a new R model. Wilder than any previous Mustang, the R featured a dual overhead cam 5.4 liter monster rated at 385 horsepower. A six-speed gearbox and 18-inch wheels and tires moved the power to the ground. Outside, the R was immediately recognizable by its domed hood, front air dam and rear wing spoiler. Only 300 Cobra Rs were built. The remaining Mustangs carried over from the prior year.
SVT was back with a new Cobra in the spring of 2002. Once again SVT topped their previous efforts with a supercharged dual cam 4.6 that Ford rated at 390 horsepower. Testers found this number to be greatly understated, as the actual output was closer to 425. The Cobra models also carried a SVT 10th anniversary badge.
The Mach 1 returned as a special edition for 2003 for the first time since 1978, and featured a functional ram air 'shaker' hood scoop and a modern interpretation of the Magnum 500 wheels used on the original 1969 models. The GT and base models continued unchanged.
2005 A new beginning with a nod to the past.
Vital Stats
Engine : 8-cylinder
Power: 550 hp
Built on its own platform which borrows slightly from the Lincoln LS, the body shape combines styling cues from some of the most memorable Mustangs of the past. From the front, 1967-1969 Mustangs come to mind. The side quarter windows recall the 1966 Shelby GT 350 and the rear retains the tri-part tail lights and faux gas filler which was a Mustang trademark from 1964-1/2 to 1973. On the performance side, the GT now comes wîth a three valve per cylinder 4.6 wîth 300 horsepower. The base motor is now a 4.0 rated at 210 horsepower. Ford has previewed the 2007 Shelby Cobra GT 500 which is slated for late 2006. As shown, the GT 500 includes a supercharged 5.4 liter engine rated at 450 horsepower making it the most powerful Mustang ever built.41 years have passed since April 17, 1964. As in the beginning, Mustang stands alone having outlived all of the challengers created in its wake, and have revolutionized an entire segmènt of the American automotive market. Its fans can expect many more happy years for the original ponycar.
Source: Internet
2009 Ford Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Mustang
• Lee Iacocca, the 'Father of the Mustang,' returns to build a limited edition pony car
• The Mustang is No. 5 of only 45 to be built and is specially equipped wîth a 550 horsepower engine
• A personal message from Iacocca will be delivered to the crowd in Las Vegas
One of the most anticipated limited edition versions of the renowned Ford Mustang will be sold at No Reserve to celebrate the pony car's 45th anniversary during the 2nd Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Las Vegas Oct. 7-10, 2009. The No. 5 Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Ford Mustang is one of only 45 to be built and is specially equipped wîth a 550 horsepower engine; as one of the featured cars, the Mustang will cross the auction block at approximately 6:30 p.m. PDT on Friday, Oct. 9. The 2009 Las Vegas event will take place at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino and feature approximately 400 collector vehicles for sale, posh lifestyle events and live, high-definition TV coverage from SPEED.
Known as the 'Father of the Mustang,' Iacocca presented the Ford Mustang to the world during a dramatic press conference at the 1964 New York World's Fair. During his time as Ford Division president and general manager, Iacocca made the Mustang a household name. He even tapped veteran racer Carroll Shelby to build special high performance versions of the car. A video from Iacocca to the crowd will air before the car is sold on Oct. 9.
'This is a stunning modern-day muscle car from the visionary who started it all,' said Steve Davis, president of Barrett-Jackson. 'It's hard to imagine where collector car enthusiasts would be if Lee Iacocca hadn't championed the Ford Mustang project 45 years ago. Now, he has teamed up wîth some of the top automotive talent in the world to produce the 45th Anniversary model. It's an instant collectible.'
Nearly two years in the making, the Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang is a collaborative effort by Iacocca, designer Michael Leone, and Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters. The new business venture is called I Legacy. The Mustangs are being offered exclusively through Galpin Ford in Southern California.
'It has been the most amazing time of my life, working wîth Mr. Iacocca on this car,' said Leone. 'This 45th Anniversary Edition Mustang is a rare, complex, elegant and extraordinary piece of moving artwork. With innovative technology, the visual impact of its fastback design and expert craftsmanship, it is truly exceptional in every way; the only car that can bear the Iacocca name on it. We couldn't be prouder to have the number five car crossing the auction block at Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas.'
Each of the 45 limited edition Mustangs is custom built by a team of talented artists using composite construction laminates, a reinforced material from the aerospace industry. The hand-crafted vehicles, all painted in a specially created Iacocca silver hue, are fabricated using the finest tooling, wîth each part separately cured in an autoclave.
The Iacocca-designed hood crest is custom built by a distinguished jeweler and every emblem is hand-finished and polished. Front and rear wheels are cast aluminum and chrome plated for a sheen-like finish and the center caps are machined and also chrome plated.
While the exterior fastback design of the Iacocca Silver Mustang is compelling, the mechanical underpinnings are true American muscle. The No. 5 Iacocca Mustang was specially equipped wîth a 550 horsepower engine featuring a Ford Racing polished Supercharger that includes dyno sheets and other documentation. The driver can harness the extra power through a quick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission. (posted on conceptcarz.com)
Inside the Iacocca Silver Mustang, the interior is resplendent wîth luxurious touches that highlight the car's special heritage. These include Iacocca Diamond Design leather seats wîth embroidery stitching, an Iacocca signature dash plaque wîth serial number, a leather-wrapped §teering wheel wîth 'I' badge and Iacocca-badged aluminum door sill plates.
'The most appealing aspect of the Iacocca Mustang is its sleek appearance,' added Davis. 'Each line is clean, very sharp and seems to flow endlessly wîth the car. And the custom silver color is extremely bold, which embodies the spirit of the Mustang.'
When it crosses the block at No Reserve in Las Vegas, the Iacocca Silver Mustang will join a famous group of Mustangs sold at Barrett-Jackson.
'From first production Ford and Shelby models to one-owner classics, we've sold just about every Mustang possible at Barrett-Jackson,' continued Davis. 'There's a passion and aura surrounding the Mustang brand that is like no other, and it shows when one crosses our auction block. The energy will be through the roof when the Iacocca Mustang is sold in Las Vegas.'
About The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company
Established in 1971 and headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Barrett-Jackson specializes in providing products and services to classic and collector car owners, astute collectors and automotive enthusiasts around the world. The company produces 'The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions™' in Scottsdale, Palm Beach, Fla. and Las Vegas. Barrett-Jackson also endorses a one-of-a-kind collector car insurance offering for collector vehicles and other valued belongings. For more information about Barrett-Jackson, visit www.barrett-jackson.com or call (480) 421-6694.
Source - Ford