A Retro-styled Mustang Available in 2010

Author: Jay Stevens
Ford intends to produce a retro-styled Mustang to captivate the fetishes of auto aficionados.

The planned version of Mustang will start with a Bullitt edition and it will be introduced next year. The automaker also plans to add a high-output version of Lincoln MKS.

Jeff Wood, Ford Motor Co. Vehicle Program Director said, "A different Mustang package will be unveiled each year until 2010. We're not just going to put it out there and let the thing die. We're not just going to put it out there and let the thing die a slow death. We're going to continue freshening this Mustang every single year. In 2007 we've got the new Bullitt version of the Mustang coming out, and I just wish I could talk about the '08s, '09s and '10s." Wood also announced that Lincoln Town Car and MKS will be boosted by a high-performance package.

The Bullitt edition combines quality

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Mustangs and Fast Fords - Popular Sport Cars

Author: IC
When we talk about 'Ford' several car models come to mind and many times people think of Jaguar, Mustang and Aston Martin

as separate companies but the fact is that they're not. These 3 car models or lines are owned by 'Ford' and all 3 lines produce fast cars. Jaguar is more of a luxury car but certain models break this stereotype and show sport features, the same thing can be said of Aston Martin.

Mustang is a car model which needs little introduction. It has been one of the favorite cars for many drivers all across the world, its highly customizable exterior as well as its power attracts car enthusiasts of all ages. The first generation of Mustangs created a great buzz in the automotive industry and car lovers. Up to this date, the first generation of Mustang keeps drawing attention because of their unique design, power and recent modifications which add more character to a very attractive driving machine.

Mustang is also planning to use eco-friendly materials to produce their car parts. Soy (as in soy beans) will be the base product used to manufacture Mustang's paint, molded parts and even seat foams.

Jaguar on the other hand is all about style and luxury but in 1991 the Jaguar XJR-15 was released to the market. This particular model shattered the stereotype which classified Jaguars as luxury cars only, this sports model resembles a Corvette but it has its unique features. The XJR types were in fact used in World Sport-car Championships, so seen from any angle this is a fast Ford model.

Aston Martin is a car on a league of its own. While Ford owns 20% of the company which started as part of the Premier Automotive Group (division of Ford) it recently was purchased (march 2007) by a British consortium for only GBP 479 million. This car model started as a luxury car but later on evolved into a luxury-sports car which was featured in the most recent '007 James Bond' movie 'Casino Royale'.

The actual model of the car is a DBS V12, this car's power comes from a hand made 6.0 V12 engine originally from the DBR9 racing car delivering 510 bhp and accelerating from 0-60 in just 4.3 seconds which places it among the world's fastest cars.

Whether it is on a subdivision or on an official branch of Ford, luxury and sport cars are made to leave car enthusiasts breathless. As time goes by technology evolves and new designs and power is fused in top-notch driving machines, it is very exciting to think what the future holds for this industry.

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Ford Thunderbird: Luxury and Safety Rolled in One

By Jay Stevens

As far back as the year 1955, the classic convertible has already been around. And some have believed that that the golden age of the American automobile was beginning to come to light. And among the world-renowned convertibles is the Ford Thunderbird. And each year, this Ford vehicle has certainly made its way through the streets of life, along with various innovations and improvements meant to be called its own.

The Ford Thunderbird is offered in new colors, along with a new interior package made available for all its patrons. Round the list of improvements include new wheels, seats and equipment. Also, this vehicle is offered in two models: Deluxe and Premium. It has been designed to fill in two people inside. It has air-conditioning with dual-zone automatic climate controls, a power tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel mounted with radio controls, a newly styled leather upholstery, and also an AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD changer. Heated seats had also been added in. The two-door Ford Thunderbird is m

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Ford Escape Hybrid: First Gas-Electric-Powered SUV and Ford Replacement Parts for Its Exceptional Pe

By Jenny McLane

The Ford Escape Hybrid is a fuel-saving, gas-electric hybrid-power version of small, four-door sport-utility vehicle, available with front-wheel drive (FWD) or four-wheel drive (4x4). Its power train has 2.3-liter, four-cylinder gas engine rated 133 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, 129 pounds-feet of torque at 4,500 rpm; synchronous AC electric motor rated 94 hp from 3,000 to 5,000 rpm; 330-volt battery pack under rear cargo floor; electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission. Maximum power output is 155 hp because gas and electric do not make their maximum power simultaneously.

It has a 2.3-liter, Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine with a 70-kilowatt permanent-magnet traction electric motor, regenerative braking and a 330-volt battery pack. The combination provides performance on par with a V-6. The hybrid never has to be plugged in because the engine recharges the batteries, by the electric motor and by heat recovered as energy during braking.

"The Escape hybrid really "wants" to be an electric vehicle, but the gasoline engine adds power for acceleration, charges the batteries and powers the air conditioning," said Mary Ann Wright, Ford's director of Sustainable Mobility Programs

Unlike electric cars, hybrids never need to be plugged into a recharger. Regenerative braking recharges the Ford Escape Hybrid, which converts electric motor into a generator to help refill the battery pack during stops; and by a recharging system powered by the gas engine.

Designed to last for the life of the vehicle and can be found under the Escape's cargo floor, the battery pack, which contains 250 small batteries roughly the size of D cells mounted in series doesn't infringe on cargo space.

The software and computerized controllers that make everything work effectively is the key to a hybrid. Small badges identify the Ford Escape as a hybrid. The instrument panel is a little different because it contains a gauge that shows when the electric motor is the source of power and when the gasoline engine is running. An optional LCD display in the center stack gives instant and average fuel economy as well as a pictorial representation of how the power is flowing at any instant.

The Escape's hybrid engine shuts down at rest to conserve fuel. When driving resumes, the SUV's 70-kilowatt traction motor generator can launch the vehicle on electric power. When it's needed, the generator starts the gas engine without the increased emissions produced when a conventional engine is started.

The Escape Hybrid also produces as little as half the amount of carbon dioxide (greenhouse gas) as a conventional gas engine. It produces 97 percent less hydrocarbon and oxides of nitrogen emissions than vehicles meeting today’s required emission standards. That qualifies it for the Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) standards designation.

Being the leader in the development of low emission vehicles, Ford continually develops projects that will someday result in practical hydrogen-powered vehicles with no greenhouse gas emissions.
As zealous as Ford in continually upgrading its products to suit every client needs, Partstrain is always looking for superior and quality workmanship for its product lines. Only the finest Ford auto body parts comprise its stock.

Find, compare and buy Ford Automotive Parts, Accessories, and other Car products at its online store http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD We supply discount ford parts for the Ford Courier, Ford Explorer, Ford Escape, Ford Econoline Van, Ford Expedition, Ford Taurus, Ford Maverick, Ford Falcon, Ford Thunderbird, Ford Fairlane, Ford Crown Victoria, Ford F-series pickup and many other Ford models.

Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_McLane

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Ford Bronco II: Shining Through Despite Criticisms

By Jason Moore Platinum Quality Author

Sold between the years 1984 to 1990, the Ford Bronco II was built and manufactured to be a compact sport utility vehicle. It was actually built to be a compact complement of the full sized Ford Bronco. It was also targeted so as to be the direct competitor to the Chevrolet S 10 Blazer and the Jeep Cherokee.

This vehicle held a 94 inch wheelbase that was very similar to the Volkswagen Beetle. The mechanical parts were very much similar to the Ford Ranger pickup’s mechanical components. The first models came out equipped with a 2.8 liter V6 engine which was very much similar to the 2.8 liter engine that was used in the Ford vehicles marketed and sold in Europe. Come the year 1986, the Ford Bronco II came introduced with a 2.9 liter EFI V6. It has been said that this engine was doomed from the beginning with design flaws. This engine often suffered from premature cylinder head failure and loss of valve train lubrication as well. This happened when the valve train lubrication was not rigorously maintained. However, Ford was able to see this flaw immediately and it acted upon changing or correcting this flaw in the soonest time possible. Come 1989, this mistake was already corrected. However, the Ford Bronco II had already accumulated unattractive comments and a not so good reputation to potential buyers. These buyers were concerned about the safety of this vehicle.

This vehicle has also been reputed to tip over during some situations because of the high center of gravity. Later on in 1991, the Ford Bronco II platform underwent a major redesign and was released to be wider and longer. However, despite the bad kind of reputation that this vehicle received, the Ford Bronco II still continued to be actively sought by customers and patrons who are looking for a cheap, solid and compact sports utility vehicle. Of course, these buyers would have to do some work on it but the replacement parts and engine could be found easily for the Ford Bronco II could have an engine swap with the Ford Ranger.

Ford Parts and Ford Auto Parts

Ford Bronco parts

Ford accessories

Jason Moore, a 35 year old freelance writer from Austin, Texas. He also works as a marketing analyst for an established auto parts store in the country.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Moore

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Escort Cosworth - The Greatest Used Ford Ever?

By Kevin Creese


My email inbox has been inundated recently. Whether it's been American pharmaceutical companies offering out-of-the-blue, to increase the size of certain areas of my body (how'd they know?) or one man pretending to be a large banking corporation so he can steal all my money to buy a new anorak, invariably my mail is useless drivel.

There was a highlight this week however with the announcement of the new Ford Focus RS. I was treated to some exclusive pictures of the eagerly anticipated model and can confirm my jaw had to be prised off the floor after half an hour. Once again, Ford has gone with a garish colour scheme like the orange-clad ST, this time breaking out a pot of lime green paint. Despite this slight eye-jerker, you can expect the used Ford market to be inundated with the Focus ST, as the RS promises to be exceptional.

In-keeping with Renault's F1 inspired Clio, the RS features a rear diffuser, bonnet air vents and more bulges than a queue outside a donut sale. From every angle the RS looks menacing yet functional, a point confirmed by the car's interior. Hardcore Recaro racing seats adorn the cabin, going hand in hand with the usual Ford refinements such as air-conditioning and satellite navigation - a perfect microcosm of the RS as a whole. Ford racing purists are getting sweatier palms by the second.

The excitement of the new Focus RS has evoked many nostalgic Ford fans to reminisce about the last truly earth-shattering hot Ford - the Escort Cosworth - arguably the greatest used Ford of them all. As with the latest Focus RS, Ford on occasion feel the need to break free from their production line of commuter mobiles and build a mad car.

Many see the Escort Cosworth as Ford's crowning glory and an example of sheer brutality that has never been bettered. The standard Escort at that time was an prime exhibit of the Ford motor company of old, as it was quite simply a bit rubbish. The idea of buying a used Ford in the early nineties meant a heap of reliability trouble, a bucket-load of rust and a particularly clinical drive once you got it working.

Despite this uninspiring platform, Ford had faith that it could rescue the Escort brand. Having already manufactured the Sierra Cosworth, the 500 and Sapphire 4x4 to great acclaim from petrol heads and with the Sierra making way for the new Mondeo, the Escort was the only model yet to be fitted with rockets under the bonnet. On paper the prospect didn't look too tantalising: the old Sierra undersides mated to a modified Escort body spelled disaster. Yet it proved to be a match made in heaven and despite its rough foundations, the Escort Cosworth was a hit.

Stylistically it was instantly recognisable, not because of the familiar Escort shape - the identical headlights or rear end, but for the gigantic rear wing that seemingly defied gravity as it protruded horizontally for ten miles from the rear windscreen. Clearly this was a boy's car for grown men to fall in love with. The rear wing actually increased drag so much it took 12mph off the car's top speed, which was not an inconsiderable 138mph. The upside of this, in addition to making the car an instant icon, was that the Escort Cosworth was the first production car to produce negative lift, as the car was being constantly pressed to the road as if by a giant hand from above.

It gave the car's owners a big dilemma - the faster you went the better the car handled as it was pushed into the ground, yet the slower you went the more people could stop and stare at the car. Large wheels and huge wheel arches gave the whole car the air of a rallying stallion, with the air vents on the bonnet giving the engine a much needed source of oxygen. All this pomp and circumstance did have one drawback - everyone wanted one. Therefore keeping your Cossie safe required your insurance company to place it into their top insurance bracket of 20 - the same as a Ferrari no less.

In many ways, despite the performance, styling and hefty insurance costs, it retained its identity of being an Escort, whilst shedding the many poor aspects of the base model it was built on. Because the heart of the Cosworth was just a working class Escort, it became an everyday car with an everyman price tag - it just happened to have 227bhp and the ability to out-manoeuvre a Porsche.

Kevin Creese is an automotive author currently working to promote a Leicester based Ford dealer http://www.sandicliffe.co.uk/ In particular Kevin is working to promote their range of used Ford cars. Used Fords are becoming ever more popular due to Fords increased reliability and the brands reputation for making good quality cars.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Creese

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North America's Ford Contour

By Jason Moore Platinum Quality Author



The Ford Mondeo sedan was for the European market. Travel to the lands of the United States and North American and you would find the Ford Contour. The Ford Contour would be the Ford Mondeo’s American counterpart. This sedan was actually sold by the Ford Motor Company starting from 1995 up until 2000. Fact is, this vehicle actually was the basis for building a version of this under the Mercury brand. And the result came to be the Mercury Mystique and later on became the Mercury Cougar. The Ford Contour was found in the Ford Motor Company’s line up filling the niche between the Ford Escort and the Ford Taurus.

The Ford Contour has a DOHC V6 engine with 24 valves. It has an aluminum block and aluminum heads. This has a displacement of 155 cubic inches. It can produce some 170 units of bhp at 6250 rpm, and 165 pound feet at 4250 rpm. It has also been equipped with a five speed manual transmission system. The wheelbase of the Ford Contour measures 106.5 inches, 183.9 inches in length and has a curb weight of 2910 pounds.

From 1995 to 1996, the Ford Contour came to be body colored. The front seats were recessed to the back so as to improve rear seat leg room. This is compared to the first wave of Ford Contours that entered the American automobile market. After a year, changes were still done. Traction control no longer was given as an option. The remote fuel door release feature was deleted and the fuel door that this batch held had a flanged opening. Made available were an interior trunk light, a tilt steering wheel, and a power antenna. In 1997 to 1998, the Ford Contours that entered the streets sported front and rear end designs that were new. There were new alloy wheel designs. The sail panels on the rear door windows were now smooth and held the word “Contour” emblazoned on it.

As per the last years of the Ford Contour, it still continually received changes. In 1998 to 1999, the Ford Contour deleted one of its trim levels. There was a clock in radio available. There were also some color revisions. The rear window and the brake light designs had changed. For Canada, this was the last year of the Ford Contour. In the United States, 2000 was the last year for the vehicle.

All genuine and quality Ford Contour parts and auto parts are available for interested parties and Ford aficionados at Ford Parts and Ford Auto Parts.

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Jason Moore, a 35 year old freelance writer from Austin, Texas. He also works as a marketing analyst for an established auto parts store in the country.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jason_Moore

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Tales From the Ford Super Duty Tailpipe Fires

Author: RyanThomas

37,000 units of the 2008 model year Ford Super Duty F-Series pickup trucks are going to be recalled. And this is according to a press release sent out by the Ford Motor Company last Wednesday. The reason for the recall was that there have been reports of these pickups experiencing fires in their tailpipes.

As on the end of the company, a spokesperson did also mention that they really did receive reports about these. However, they only received three. Upon further inspection, the company has found out that the tailpipe fires have started because of leaking fuel or oil had started the fire upon being trapped in the diesel particulate filter found near the tailpipe of the vehicles.

Also, the spokesperson from the company did further mention that they had they had looked into one particular case wherein the tailpipe fire also became the cause for another fire - this time, the blaze was set on grass. This happened when the driver pulled off the road and the fire crept to the nearby grass.

Dan Jarvis, the spokesperson of the company, did say though that despite hearing reports like this, they are also quite happy to note that there were no injuries or accidents of any sort that has happened as a result of the tailpipe fires from the Ford Super Duty F-Series pickups.

Jarvis did continue to say, “This is an important product for us and an important customer base, and we want to move swiftly to make sure this does not become a safety issue for our customers.”

As part of the move of the company to straighten out this fiery mess, the company has already sent word to their official dealers last Wednesday to immediately put a stop to selling the vehicles. The vehicles would be back on the stands and would be for sale as soon as the problem is rectified. But owners of the vehicles should need not worry for the repair and the work to be done on the vehicles would not take long. In fact, the company is estimating that it should only about 10 minutes for the repair.

This particular situation just goes to show that a simple thing like a tailpipe could still be cause for recall. So, as car owners, we should always be on the lookout for anything wrong with the vehicle, especially if it is still fairly new. Who knows? Perhaps those Nissan multi rib belt that you just purchased have defects that would entail a recall.

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The New Shelby Mustang GT500

Author: David Anthony

Mustang enthusiasts are in heaven with the recent collaboration between Carroll Shelby and Ford once again. As a legendary race car driver turned designer, Shelby infused the classic Mustang with the kind of power and style that hadn't yet been seen before in any vehicle of its day. To completely understand the fascination and borderline obsession some people have with Shelby Mustangs, you have to know its history and background. Ford Shelby Mustangs were the 1960's. They epitomized the era and captured the look and feel of the people of that time. New, exciting and on the cutting edge of technology- Mustangs mirrored the world as it was in the 1960's and helped to secure a preoccupation with life in the fast lane. Today, Mustangs live on as one the greatest sports cars ever made.

Now you can understand why there had been so much acclaim and anticipation for the 2006 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 to be unveiled, even before it hit the dealerships. It has been hailed as the "most powerful Mustang to ever come out of the factory" and it's easy to see why. With a 450 horsepower, 5.4 V engine, it's no wonder Shelby fans are scrambling to dealerships to be one of the first to take it for a test drive.

With both old and new characteristics, the 2006 GT500 has come full circle. Ford has remained true to the allure of the classic Mustang...all that power and speed packed into an easy to handle and lightweight automobile and they didn't sacrifice the design. The similarities between the Mustang of the past and the present model lay in the exterior mostly. You'll find those tell tale white Shelby stripes running from the front to the back of the car and the rear fascia will bring back memories of the GT500's of yesterday.

The interior is ebony black and luxurious, while the six speed manual transmission makes for superior handling and a smooth ride. This is the most capable Mustang yet and one that will take your breath away when you take it for a spin. Even if you weren't yet born when Shelby first began modifying Mustangs, you'll get an idea of what it was like to own this car when it was still so new and exciting.

If you're a car collector, a Shelby fan or just love a good Mustang, Ford has created the ultimate. Fans have been chomping at the bit since they heard that this vehicle was in the making and the chatter about it hasn't ceased since. It's the dream car of many and why wouldn't it be? It has the classic Shelby look coupled with modern day technology and a reasonable price tag.

Shelby enthusiasts will find themselves reminiscing about the GT500 from the 60's upon inspecting the 2006 model, but they'll be too swept away by its agility, amazing power and enhanced engine to become overly nostalgic. This car is suped up to the maximum... one that the people in the 1960's couldn't have even begun to fathom and it's waiting at a dealership near you.

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Prepares Another Mustang With a Cause

Author: Glady Reign

The Ford Motor Co. is preparing another version of its famous Mustang pony car to appear more feminine than before. The Mustang is now painted pink to attract more women and at the same time so as to also serve a much worthy cause – help the campaign in fighting breast cancer.

This summer, Ford intends to offer a "Warriors in Pink" trim package for the sports car to attract new buyers to the Mustang nameplate and help raise money for breast cancer research. Ford Mustang sales have slipped in the recent months. This is why the automaker is improving its campaign to increase the sales of its pony car.

"One of the reasons for this strategy is to keep the buzz up as high as possible," said Ford spokesman Jim Cain, who noted that the Mustang continues to dominate its segment in the domestic market. In fact, he said Mustang's share of the U.S. sporty coupe market has climbed to more than 50 percent even as its sales have slipped.

The automaker said that details are still being ironed out however the new version is expected to feature pink stripes on the outside and pink contrast stitching inside. The pony car package is expected to offer a V-6 engine but the purchasers can choose either a hardtop or a convertible. A couple of colors will be offered by the automaker but pink is not one of them.

Ford will be manufacturing the Mustangs to order. Some of the profits will be donated to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. The foundation is the world’s biggest and most progressive network of breast cancer survivors and activists. It has local affiliates in 125 cities and communities. The foundation also has a great number of advocates at the local, state, and federal level.

Breast cancer is a serious threat in today’s time. In the United States, the rate of new cases of breast cancer has increased by a little over one percent annually starting from the 1940s. During 1990s, the rate of new cases of the malady has leveled off. The recent statistics shows a steep rate of decline in new cases in 2003. However, in 2007 alone, an estimated 178,480 new cases of breast cancer will be diagnosed in the US. The figures are now getting more serious that there is already a need to double the efforts and initiate rigorous campaigns to educate the people and to prevent breast cancer at the earliest time. This is the reason why Ford is offering a helping hand.

The dilemma now of the automaker is the fact that not everyone is amenable to the idea of a Ford Mustang being marketed at women. Analyst Erich Merkle of IRN Inc. which is based in Grand Rapids said that the Ford Mustang is an iconic brand that is based on a special mix of speed and testosterone. He said Ford should not mess with success. "Is Mustang going to be a stallion or a gelding?" Merkle quipped. "The cause is admirable, but the Mustang isn't the right choice." Merkle suggested Ford use another vehicle for the cause-oriented program.

Nevertheless, other enthusiasts are showing their support and are now welcoming the move of the automaker. "I think it's a great idea. It's going to add a little class to the car and a little feminine touch," said Audrey Zavodsky of New Boston, who races Mustangs professionally in the Grand Am Coni Series and teaches high-performance driving at the Bondurant Racing School. "A lot of women are buying Mustangs, and I think this is going to appeal to even more women."

At least two other special edition Mustangs are scheduled for release later year, including a new, limited edition Mustang Bullitt. For the 2006 and 2007 model years, the Pony Package option is offered with the V6 model. The Mustang option includes Bullitt-style wheels, a unique grille design with fog lamps, bigger tires, upgraded suspension, distinctive door striping and emblems, rear deck spoiler and other quality parts likened to the Volvo CV joint.

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The Advantages to Having Custom Mustang Wheels From Other Styles

Author: Muna wa Wanjiru

The wheels are the first custom parts one would love to fit on to a car. Regardless of how challenging the ride is we always prefer designer of customized wheels. The focal point of most cars, is rim and tire package and can make or break the look and overall effect of your ride. All the way through time, the street-rider wheels of choice have changed and evolved. In the early years, as affiliates of a custom car faction in the fifties, started out with some red-oxides and clean hubcaps. This was during an era when aftermarket rims were not available except for as options through car dealers. In recent years, the rider's rims have made a major impact on the multi million dollar automotive markets. The Mustang Wheels have evolved as a more superior tire having specialized features that have made driving an amazing experience.

There are several unspoken rules to the game of street racing; one would bet that a sharp set of wheels will set you on blaze. This was particularly true back in an era that underwent many changes to sustain the ongoing advancements in the automobile industries. The final rule would become the ultimate code for street riders, that rule is the fact that wheels should always be smaller and remain in close touch with the ground. This principle is a fundamental in the field of Hydraulics.

The point is that our rim and rubber have evolved throughout the years, and it's not so much impact on the car driver, but the car itself, one that waited to shed its everyday appearance and spread its wings amongst the racer community, and that becomes the star. The sports sedan which doubles as a family car is now a crystal crusted emperor who glides through the streets and punishes its rivals in competitions of honor and esteem.

With customizations available only through models of their own kind, the giants seeing the reception and demand for custom parts, they entered the market with a big bang providing freelancers with the style and quality.

McLean and Roadster were two of the first straight laced custom available on the wire wheels on the market. Though they were a great alternative to the original spokes, they were no match for the Dayton hubs, which emerged as the true king of the wire wheels. The elite mustang wheels of Ford are designed to satisfy the whims of the style conscious.

There are several advantages to having these custom Mustang wheels from over many other styles. There is a larger interior clearance for larger brake calipers and rotors in Mustang custom wheels in general. This feature allows the user to install high-performance braking with the greatest of ease. The GT4 wheel molds the style and substance into one solid piece of equipment. These new Mustang wheels are offered in a chrome or hyper-coated black finish and are all set to fit any 1994-2004 Ford Mustang or 2005+ Mustangs.

Not only that we will be able to fit those new performance brake calipers and rotors inside your new wheels, but we will be turning heads with a brand new design that is absolutely stunning.

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Mustang Riders to Sit on Soy-based Foam

Author: Anthony Fontanelle

The Ford Motor Co. and Lear Corp. will mark an automotive milestone when the production of soy-based foam for seats begins in the 2008 Mustang. Ford may do the same with other models as well, eventually saving thousands of barrels of oil in the manufacturing process, the automaker said last Thursday.

America's adored pony car will not only be flaunting bright Ford headlights - it will be sporting the industry's first soy-based flexible foam in the seat backs and seat cushions starting in August at the Auto Alliance International factory in Flat Rock, Michigan.

"Our technical team had to overcome several significant hurdles to bring this environmentally responsible technology to production," said Gerhard Schmidt, the vice president of Research & Advanced Engineering at Ford. "We are pleased that our diligent efforts in developing this technology have resulted in the production of soy-foam for the Ford Mustang."

Lear, a leader in the area of environmental auto seating with industry firsts, liked the use of expanded polypropylene and polyethylene materials which are used in place of traditional polyurethane foam which offers reduced mass and are 100 percent recyclable.

"Using renewable resources is an important means to supplying automotive products that improve environmental impact," said Ray Scott, the 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."

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.

"Soy is a very green, renewable resource," said Debbie Mielewski, the 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."

Ford said that the environmental advantages include reduced carbon dioxide emissions in manufacturing compared to petroleum-based foam, lower energy use to produce the soy foam and reduced dependence on foreign oil.

At present, most automakers today use 100 percent petroleum-based polyol foam. Each vehicle manufactured contains an average of 30 pounds of petroleum-based foam. The total annual worldwide market for the foam is nine billion pounds. Mielewski said that the auto manufacturers’ research and development of renewable, more environmentally friendly materials to produce the foam could have a significant environmental impact.

The Dearborn-based automaker has not calculated exactly how much oil it would save if it used the new foam for every application in all of the 2.9 million vehicles it produces annually. But Mielewski said that if all the foam was soy-based, Ford would use 11 million pounds of soy oil, and the petroleum savings would be a similar volume.

The foam, which is 40 percent soy and 60 percent oil-based, costs about the same as conventional foam that is fully oil-based, Mielewski said. "Currently we believe that the technology is a cost wash, but you have to remember that is because we are implementing it on one program and lower volumes," she said, predicting that the cost would drop when used in more vehicles.

The annual worldwide market for automotive foam is nine billion pounds, so a switch to a renewable material could have a significant environmental impact, Mielewski said. Ford hopes to use the new seat foam in more models in the upcoming 2008 model year, Mielewski added. It also is applying for patents on the foam technology. And no, the foams are not edible!

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Roush Drag Pack Mustang: to Conquer the Streets and the Strips

Author: Chuck Smith

One year of rigid testing is worth it because Ford has eventually set forth a high-performance Mustang that delivers comfy everyday ride as well as nerve-racking drag race drive feel. The secret of this groundbreaking vehicle is the sophisticated ROUSH Competition Line of performance parts that completes its race-ready Drag Pack Mustang appeal.

With the development of the sophisticated Ford Mustang performance parts, the vehicle is set to break away from the limitations of street driving. Moreover, it is now also designed to face the barriers of drag racing. Further, it can roll from the street to the strip.

Ford wants to show that Mustang is growing up with time. Hence, to make it more powerful than before, the automaker incorporated the Roush features to it. Roush Drag Pack Mustang is the successor of Super Jet Cobra, a drag racing vehicle from Ford that has been introduced in 1969.

Roush Drag Pack Mustang is given enhanced Ford Mustang wheels, connecting rods, oil cooler, modified crankshaft, and an option of 3.91 or 4.30 Traction-Lok gears. Several parts of said Mustang version are upgraded. These parts include clutch Ford Mustang, flywheel, pinion gear set, one-piece driveshaft with safety loop, posi rear differential, control arm brackets, high-strength axle shafts, and more.

Unique features of Roush Drag Pack Mustang include new location of battery to create better weight distribution, smaller ROUSHcharger pulley and engine calibration, new tachometer with shift light, and the inclusion of an external on/off switch.

"When we returned to having a drag racing program last season I challenged the team at ROUSH Performance to build a car that can be driven to the track, have the tires changed to slicks, and perform on the drag strip," said Jack Roush, the brains behind the new formula. "This Drag Pack Mustang is the culmination of those efforts."

Roush has a liking for drag racing that goes back to when he started his motorsports career in the late '60s. Roush personally oversaw the maturity of the new Mustang, which is based from the flagship Roush Stage 3. In the testing phase, the 2007 Mustang yielded 430 horsepower run in the 11.9-second and 113 mph range.

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The Dazzling Narrative of the Classic Mustangs, How the Namesake Originated

Author: Eric Buck
For many car enthusiasts, the Mustang is ruled to be one of the most esteemed. But how did this favorite vehicle really come to be? Well, it all started back in spring of 1964. Lee Iacocca, the General Manager of Ford Motor Company, always thought of having a medium sized sports car and proclaiming it as the next contender in street wars. But Ford decided to go for broke and unveil a brand new type of car. What was born of Iacocca’s budding concept is the “Pony Car”. It was engineered, in the beginning, as a two-passenger modeled after the European-style, but a business-savvy Iacocca knew that the future of this new model banked on a large number of sales. Thus the design was refined further and the Ford Mustang was designed after the Falcon, which was compact in design, so that production expenses could be shaved. This new vehicle was originally named P-51, after the famous fighter plane. But, many comparisons were made to the Mustang, a type of horse and it ultimately became both symbol and theme to the cars. True to its namesake, the Mustang sold 22,000 units on the very first day of it's debut and went on to sell a million more within the next few years thus gaining the respect of both the industry and car enthusiasts during that time.
By the time 1966 came rolling in, the Mustang was developed yet again. They altered the design of the instrument panel to differentiate the Mustang from the Falcon. The 260 cubic inch V8 was also replaced with 2 and 4 barrel types of the 289 cid V8. A year later, a 100 % revampment materialized in the design of the Mustang, these changes include a thicker sheet metal below its belt line, a meaner grille, a hollow tail panel, and a fastback roof line for the fastback design of the vehicle’s body. These 1967 Shelby’s were more advanced in terms of design. It also had more elements that provided luxury to the passenger. The 1967 Shelby’s were the last to be designed by the Shelby-American Company. Every model subsequent were built by Ford with negligible involvement for Shelby. In 1968, the Mustang underwent some more changes. The grille was changed into something simpler and its 427 engines were powered down but even still, they were more than able to get people’s eye when motoring down the streets. Also in the same year was when Ford released what was to be their most infamous engine ever. The 428 Cobra Jet, as it was called, was rumored to have an output of 410 bhp. The Shelby’s were still in production and a new design, a convertible, was also made available. This convertible design was called the Shelby Cobra.
Through the subsequent years of 1969, 1970, 1971, 1972 and 1973 more adjustments were made to the original Mustang design. In 1969, the Shelby’s that were produced became more oriented to being a luxury car. The Boss Mustangs were also unveiled the same year. These Boss Mustangs were made to qualify for the NASCAR races. By 1970, the public still preferred the Cobra engine to the other engines that were coming out during that time. By 1971, Ford’s many years of being a total performance vehicle were coming to an end. This would also be the only year that Ford’s performance was considered to be declining. In 1973, several mistakes and changes in the rules forced modifications to the design of the Mustang as well. This time, what used to be a car produced for high performance debuted a new model, the Mustang II, with no claims to anything as marvelous as what its descendants had done.

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Mustang: Most Wanted Convertible

Author: Jay Stevens
For the second time around, Ford Mustang has been named Wanted Convertible Under $35,000 by Edmunds.com editors.
"These are the vehicles our editorial team would chose to have in our own driveways," said Karl Brauer, Edmunds.com editor-in-chief. Edmunds.com commended brand new Mustang's retro styling, performance, and affordable price. Mustang is one of the award-winning vehicles of Ford. As a fact, the award from Edmunds.com is just a part of the string of significant accolades given to said vehicle.
In an interview, Kevin Smith of Edmunds.com said, "Without the uncanny success of the Mustang, with its retro styling cues, V8 rumble, brash manner and affordable price, GM and DaimlerChrysler would surely not have bothered replaying these oldies." This statement is anchored on what writer's call the 'Pony Car Wars' a domestic automaker battle. Said war started out some forty years ago. Now, the automakers are reliving the scene. The name of the game is Pony Car Wars and the most domineering muscle car will reign.
"We embrace the Pony wars," said James Owens, Mustang marketing manager. "Mustang is the authentic American muscle car. In fact, Mustang is the only one of the original pony cars from the 1960s to live on into the 21 st century with no interruption in production."
Ford Mustang, an American muscle car, was first produced in 1964. It was first unveiled to the public at the New York World's Fair in that same year. After 43 years from its inception, Mustang remains in production.
In 2004, a completely redesigned Mustang was introduced at the North American International Auto Show. Ford Mustang auto parts integrated in the new vehicle were assembled on an all-new D2C platform. This year, the 'Pony Package' was offered for the V6 model. Said model is also equipped with unique Ford Mustang grille, upgraded suspension, wider tires, Bulitt-style wheels, rear deck spoiler, special emblems, special door stripping, and more.
Time is changing and Mustang goes with the change. Nonetheless, the change is certainly for the betterment of its status. Experts are saying that the secret behind Mustang's longevity is its appeal to a wide range of purchasers. "The 2007 Ford Mustang represents a deft blend of classic American muscle car styling cues and modern design," wrote the editors of Edmunds.com "Whether you choose a V6 or V8, a coupe or convertible, this is one of the best values on the market for consumers seeking traditional rear-wheel-drive performance."

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Ford, to Introduce Bullitt Edition Mustang in 2007

Author: Jay Stevens
Ford is aiming to produce several versions of performance retro-Mustangs; it will start next year with the introduction of a Bullitt edition. The automaker also intends to bolster versions of MKS, Lincoln flagship.
“We're not just going to put it out there and let the thing die a slow death. We're going to continue freshening this Mustang every single year. In 2007 we've got the new Bullitt version of the Mustang coming out, and I just wish I could talk about the '08s, '09s and '10s," said Jeff Wood, Ford's vehicle program director.
Wood also added that a different Mustang package will be introduced each year until 2010. Mustang is one of the popular cars in Ford lineup these days. To further enhance the image and popularity of the car, the automaker will be incorporating several modifications in special edition Mustangs.
The Bullitt edition Mustang is equipped with a 310-plus horsepower V8 with a lowered suspension and a special interior design. Bullitt edition boasts its classic Ford Mustang parts that convey toughness and longevity. The first retro-styled edition of the vehicle is also given sturdy Ford Mustang wheels.
2007 Bullitt also features plain grille without galloping pony badge or spotlights and a black-painted panel between the taillights. It is intended to resemble the McQueen's '68. Bullitt's artistic design sculpture was created by Italdesign Giugiaro, a company that's sculpted vehicles for many of the world's automakers. The car also uses the plastic wing, retro-style gauges, seats, steel fuel door, and ground effects add-ons conventional to special-edition Mustangs in favor of signature dark green paint. Said version will be available in Highland Green.
The name 'Bullitt' of the first retro-Mustang came from the movie featuring iconic 1968 390 GT, which was used by Steve McQueen. The remarkable movie is still hot at the present time. It still makes hearts beat faster.
The production Mustang was based on Ford Falcon compact. Its first production rolled off in 1964 at Dearborn, Michigan plant. The car was introduced via all three American television networks that time. Said introduction was one of the most successful in car history. After so many decades, Mustang is still one of Ford pride vehicles.

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2008 Mustang: Ford’s Brand New Warrior

Author: Anthony Fontanelle
The Ford Motor Co. announced last Friday the new 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package - a limited production of 2,500 vehicles in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The limited edition Mustang is produced in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists.
The new Mustang is the first-ever vehicle from the automaker to be designed exclusively in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Now on its 13th year of support, Ford has dedicated more than $90 million in cash and in-kind donations to help save lives and fight breast cancer.
The Ford Mustang is one of the greatest milestones in the auto industry’s success stories of all time. Nearly one out of every two sports cars sold in America is a Mustang, and the vehicle remains one of the hottest selling road machines in America. Mustang is also America's best selling convertible. Launched in 2006, the Ford Warriors in Pink campaign stresses courage and power in dealing with the everyday challenges of fighting breast cancer. The Warriors in Pink collection of apparel for men and women feature important symbols signifying the message of hope, strength and unity in the commitment to the fight against breast cancer.
The Mustang with Warriors in Pink package will add a pink ribbon and Pony fender badge, a pink Mustang rocker tape striping, charcoal leather seats with pink stitching, an aluminum-spoke steering wheel with pink stitching and charcoal floormats with pink ribbon. This is in addition to trusted auto parts consisting of Ford Mustang tire chain, engines, suspension, radiator, and more.
"Ford has been a long-standing supporter of Komen for the Cure and this year we've designed a special product to help raise awareness and find a cure for breast cancer," said Connie Fontaine, the Ford Customer Experience Manager. "For the 2007 campaign, Ford truly breaks the mold by creating the first-ever Ford 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package to support Komen for the Cure. With the addition of the new Mustang to Ford's already powerful line of Warriors in Pink gear available at Fordcares.com, we plan to have yet another successful year as we provide our support in the fight against breast cancer."
For this year, the automaker offers more options including a DVD-Based GPS Navigation System made by Pioneer, heated seats, power passenger seats, revised interior colors, and the Sirius satellite radio. The GT Appearance Package made its debut in 2007 as well. This package adds a non-functional hood scoop, bright rolled exhaust tips and an engine cover featuring the pony emblem.
The new Mustang, fueled by the Warrior spirit, will be delivered to dealers in mid-summer. The automaker’s goal is to donate more than half a million dollars through sales of the new Mustangs in addition to other fundraising efforts. The money shall be used by the organization to disseminate information and to help breast cancer patients. To stress, about ten million women around the world could die from breast cancer in the next 25 years without the right cure.
Three new Warrior symbols debut this year, representing the Warrior spirit in each one of us - from power and courage to strength and compassion. These new symbols will be found on additional apparel items available for men, women and children. All apparel is available on Fordcares.com and 100 percent of the net proceeds will be donated to Komen for the Cure. More than $1 million of merchandise were sold in 2006.
The limited edition 2008 Mustang with Warriors in Pink package is currently available for consumers to pre-order through their local Ford dealers. The Mustangs, fueled by the Warrior spirit, will be delivered to dealerships in the mid-summer.
Available on the V-6 Premium Array Coupe or Convertible models, the Mustang with Warriors in Pink package will add a pink ribbon and Pony fender badge, pink Mustang rocker tape striping, charcoal leather seats with pink stitching, an aluminum-spoke steering wheel with pink stitching and charcoal floormats with pink ribbon and contrast stitching. The Mustang with Warriors in Pink package, which includes the Mustang Pony package, will be available in three colors to please the spirits of all Warriors - black, metallic silver and performance white.

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Mustang Muscle Car, Ready to Race

Author: Chuck Smith
Ford aficionados and race fans can now scream their lungs out. This is because Ford Mustang is now made more rugged and powerful to conquer race tracks. Recently, Ford Motor Company in cooperation with Miller Motorsports Park (MMP), has equipped a fleet of Mustangs with high-performance race parts.
Ford Mustang auto parts are given a crucial boost via add-ons. These add-ons convert the American muscle cars into race-prepped thoroughbreds. Said racing and parts are available to any Mustang owner from the Ford Racing Performance Parts catalog at any Ford dealership.
Mustang is an American car that is based on Falcon compact. Its first production was a white convertible with red interior. The aftermath of said production was introduced at the New York World's Fair on April 17, 1964. Two days after, it was launched via all American television networks. That that, said launch was considered the most successful in the industry. After quite a few redesigns and modifications, Mustang is still doing great in the automotive market. After 43 years of existence, Mustang is brought to a new level. This time it is designed to handle the complex and nerve-racking world of racing.
Jaime Allison, manager of Ford Racing Performance Group said, "We're thrilled to again have a relationship with a driving school program. Ford Racing has become a Charter Member of the new, state-of-the-art Miller Motorsports Park. Our relationship is more than just a sponsorship; it is rooted in a technical development program that began before the facility was even complete. We've been working with the team at MMP for over a year now developing, testing and proving-out the 20 Mustangs and I'm proud to say, they're ready to go."
The Drag Pack offered by the company provides extra boost to Ford Mustang engine parts. In fact, with it the driver can imagine to shave a half-second off quarter mile estimated times. The car can generate 35 more horsepower than Mustang GT. The Handling Pack, which includes tuned dampers, springs, sway bars and strut tower brace, is suited to any 2005-07 Mustang GT Coupe.
Aside from the 2 packs, the car is also equipped with 18-inch Ford Mustang wheels, racing mufflers, performance radiator, racing stripe kit, brakes, safety harness, and more.
"This relationship to outfit Miller Motorsports Park's fleet of Mustangs with high-performance parts is the culmination of all our Ford Racing Performance Packs on Mustang from the FR1, FR2, FR3 and on," said Allison. "Everyone in our office has been involved in this program."

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Convertible Season Pulls Ford Mustang Sales

Author: KatieJones
To some enthusiasts the purchase was just a spur-of-the-moment decision. That is how Katy Long of Novi, Mich., ended up purchasing the new Mustang. "I have always wanted a convertible, that's absolutely what it is," says the 26-year-old automotive lease renewal specialist, who took delivery of her dark grey Mustang GT from Varsity Ford in Ann Arbor, Mich., recently. "I wanted to make the best of the upcoming spring and summer, so I decided to make the move and I'm thrilled with it."
It is convertible season once again and this time of the year gives Mustang the edge to attract and turn enthusiasts into buyers. Open air driving gives off a satisfying sense of adventure. And that sense of adventure lets enthusiasts grab Mustang’s door handle to eventually enjoy a free-spirited ride.
"In many markets, customers are emerging from the thaw and have a renewed interest in life and convertibles," said George Pipas, the Ford manager for U.S. Sales Analysis and Reporting. "Springtime has always been a part of Mustang's magic since it was introduced in April of 1964." Pipas said when it comes to Mustang convertible sales, the so-called "spring selling season" actually extends well into the month of August.
"That six-month period (March through August) represents more than two-thirds of Mustang convertible sales," Pipas noted. "Roughly one in every four Mustangs we sell is a convertible, and that is essentially the case, year in and year out."
To some states, the convertible season lasts most of the year. This fact is confirmed by Galpin Ford in North Hills, Calif. The dealership, the leading Ford dealer in Mustang sales, has allotted a part of its showroom for the pony car alone. "We had talked about doing something special with Mustang for a while," said Al Joseph, the Galpin sales manager. "Arguably, this most recent redesign (2005 model year) has been one of the most successful Mustangs ever. I think it resonated with Mustang buyers in a way that we haven't seen since the first time it was introduced."
"A large part of the Mustang mystique is its consistency over time," said Robert Parker, the Ford Division car marketing manager. "Great brands that deliver a consistent message over a long period of time are the ones that become the most iconic. One could argue it (Mustang) is among the strongest brands in the world, as it relates to automotive."
"We're moving into our third full year with this current body style and we've been able to maintain Mustang's sales momentum," said Dan Geist, the Mustang marketing manager. Geist added one way Ford is keeping Mustang relevant is through the introduction of special-edition models, like the 2007 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500, dubbed as the most powerful factory-built Mustang in history. Geist concluded, "In fact, Mustang is the only one of the original vintage sports cars from the 1960s that lives on into the 21st century with no interruption in production."

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Ford Mustang Bullit for the Next Year

Author: Andrew Christian
Informations leaked, whether on purpose or not, to Mustang Forums all across the net.
The information contains specifics as to power increases, exterior/interior modifications and production numbers but doesn’t include a projected price. The power output is nothing to get excited over with an expected 312HP. The car will also get the obvious exterior and interior modifications to give it the Bullitt feel along with improved suspension. All Bullitts will ship with 3.73 gears, X-Pipe and 18? Bullitt Style wheels. So far there have been no official pictures released. Check out the complete list:
* FR Power Pack Estimated 312HP* Shock/Strut Tuning* Strut Tower Brace* Upgraded Steering System* Red Brake Calipers* 3:73 Axle Ratio* X-Pipe Exhaust w/Bright Exhaust Tips* Unique Sport Seating* Unique Sill Plate* Bright Metal Trim & Unique Shifter* Available In Highland Green Or Black* Unique Grill V6 Style (w/o Fog Lamps)* Rear Faux Gas Cap w/Bullitt Logo* Cap Surround Painted Charcoal Gray* 18? Bullitt Style Wheel* Red Brake Calipers* $TBD MSRP* Program Length: 6 Months* Total Volume: 7,000 US, 700 Canada

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Ford Mustang

Author: Michael Hudson
Prominent among the characteristics of living things is the growth propensity. The conceived living organism in this regard is technology. It is about the fastest growing but intangible entity known to history. Though takes its root from the human mind, it has dramatically overgrown that origin at inestimable proportions. Such is the scenario that determines the advancement of Ford Mustang.
Some analysts have claimed that Mustang was not an attractive car at birth. That sounds rather erroneous because they base their conclusion on the so called contemporary “state of the art” touch. Such an outlook had always been present in the earlier models. But man’s quest for new attraction, improved beauty and better quality remains insatiable. It is against this background that the latest Mustang has metamorphosed into its current flashy state.
It is outstandingly noteworthy that in the past four decades, Ford’s successive teams of engineers had relentlessly embellished the features and components of the Mustang. This had led to consistent surge in demand for this wonderful automobile.
A passionate look at the nose axis and the entire grille presents an amazingly exotic exterior. Making the frame more imposing is the round headlights. This combination has been found to be so efficient that they easily capture objects at long range.
The user friendly triangular windows can be quite compelling and fun to manipulate especially when the need arises to let in more fresh air. Hence they work in harmony with the air vent.
Not only is the new Mustang more roomy than its immediate predecessor, the seats offer a perfect world of comfort in a cruise. But the great delight of the guy behind the wheel is the round steering and the teasing gear shift. Without the fear of being controverted, one unique feature of Mustang that other car producers crave to emulate is the selectable rear lighting component just with a friendly tap on the appropriate button.
Affording the user a high level of satisfaction is the stability and durability mustered by this awesome vehicle.
Oftentimes some manufacturers get fired by wanton inability to maintain originality in their effort to improve their products.
Ford’s team of engineers will ever remain exceedingly praiseworthy for their feat of perfectly crafting old technology into their new found creativity. It’s simply astonishing.
Environmental factors such as customer resolutions are tough to control by manufacturers. But sufficient amount of quality relieves you of unwarranted fear characteristic of amateurish producers. The Mustang enthusiasts attribute their choice for it to a number of features. While some find their craze in the automatic transmission, some applaud the acceleration and top speed, others find joy in its displacement and maximum bhp. The bottom line is a revelation of well rounded quality mix.

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The Ford Mustang-how a Pony Grew Into a Stallion!

Author: Don Levy
In March 1964 Ford debuted as one the most popular cars ever built. It was the car that started the pony car craze and gave us a peek into what the world would know as the muscle car era. Although it was built in 1964 it was designated as a 1965. The ones built from March until July 31, 1964 are known as 1964 1/2 Mustangs and were some what different from the ones built from August 1 and later. Most of the differences were internal and the body were identical except for the hood being rolled under in the later ones. It was basically a Falcon with a new body and bucket seats. The ones built after July are known as 1965's and were a little more updated with such things as an alternator,adjustable passenger seat and a number of other engineering refinements. The pony interior with the running horses was offered also.
The Mustang probably had the biggest debut of any car ever made as it was introduced at the New York's World Fair and was the pace car for the Indianapolis 500. Over 4 million people visited the showrooms and 22,000 were ordered the 1st day. It sold 417,000 the first year which broke all previous automobile sales records.
The body styles were the coupe and convertible. No fastbacks were built until the 1965's came out in August. The engines were the U code 170 CI 6 cylinder, F code 260 V8 and the D code 289 V8 with 210 Horsepower. The GT came out in April 1965 and was offered in all 3 body styles. You had a choice of the A code 225 HP or K code 271 HP V8. The 271 HP almost qualified it as a muscle car. The 1st Shelby Mustangs, all fastbacks, came out in 1965 and was really a hotrod with no backseat and hopped up to 306 HP.
1966 didn't see a lot of changes in the body except for the pony in the grill, side trim and restyled gas cap. The G.T. 350 came out in 1966 and Hertz ordered 1,001 of them for rental cars or "Rent-a Racers" as they were known as. Many Sundays they could be found at the dragstrip or road race course. There was a rumour at the time that a number of them were rented and the engines swapped with the renter's engine and returned to the dealer. True or not it makes a heck of a story. This was also the first year for the High Country Special sold in Colorado and Wyoming. The Shelby GT350 was available with a 289cid that put out 390hp and likely qualified it as a muscle car. In 1967 the Mustang had the 1st body redesign, although it wasn't a major one, mostly trim and grill. The biggest change was on the fastback where the top went all the way to the rear of the car. The convertible had a glass rear window for the 1st time.
It was the last year for 289 Hi-Po and the first year for the 390cid and 428cid engines. The GT350 had the 289cid Hi-Po while the GT500 got the 428cid. The 390cid could be had in all 3 body styles. This was the only year for the GTA which had an automatic transmission and could be had with the 289 or 390 in all 3 body styles. Only 400 High Country Specials were build in 1967.
The Chevy Camaro, Mercury Cougar, Pontiac Firebird and Plymouth Barracuda were all in the same class as the Mustang and cut into their sales, but they still outsold their nearest competitor, the Cougar by a three to one margin.
The 1968 was little changed in appearance from the 1967. The 427cid of Cobra fame came out in he GT's. Equipped With disc brakes, racing tires and heavy duty suspension it was race ready right off the showroom floor. Mustang racer Bob Tasca efforts to build the 428 Cobra Jet was rewarded by Ford building 2,817 instead of the just 50 intial run he asked for. This was the last year for the High Country Special and a California Special was available for this year only. All the Specials were coupes.
In 1969 things really changed, the engine line had 7 different size engines and although the body had the same look it was 4 inches longer and a little wider. The engines ranged from the 2 little 6 cylinders, a regular and a Boss 302cid, 2 different 351cid, the 390cid, the Cobra Jet and Cobra Jet-R 428cid all the way up to the monster, Boss 429. The original body styles were still around, but now they were joined by the Mach 1, the Boss and the Grande. This was the last year for the GT.
The Mach 1 was basically a fastback GT with upgrades. It came with 351cid, 390cid or the Cobra Jet 428.The Grande was for the luxury buyer, with many upgrades. The Boss 302 was built to race in the TransAm series where the Camaro had beat them in 1968. They almost won it in 1969. This was the year of the Boss 429 debut, which was the Nascar version engine.
1970 was a happier year for Ford as the Boss 302 won the Trans-Am Series. Very few changes were made to the cars. The Boss 429cid came out with a hemi-head that required suspension modifications so it would fit.The 390cid was done away with. Ford built 2 1970 Boss 429 Lawmen Mustangs to tour with the U.S. troops. Only 1 of the 1,200-horsepower monsters survives today and is owned by wrestler Bill Goldberg.
In 1971 the Mustang gained one inch in wheelbase and every other dimension grew. The Mach 1 could now be had with the 429cid although the 302cid was standard. The Boss 302 and Boss 429 were both dropped in favor of the Boss 351. Like 1970 there wasn't too much exciting happening in the Ford camp. It was like they knew the end was near.
1972 saw the end of the Mustangs wild ride. The pony had grown into a stallion, but like the stallions of the old West it's end was near. The 429cid engine was dropped which meant that the largest engine was now the 351cid. Although the High Output version put out a respectable 275hp it was a far cry from the advertised 376hp (reputed to be much higher) the Boss 429 put out. In my estimation this was the last year for the Ford muscle cars although in reality it was 1970 as the engine cubic inches and horsepwer went the way of the dodo bird in the 1971 models.
I hate to even mention the 1973 because of the hatchet job that was done on the Mustang and other muscle cars. This was even the last year for the convertible. The 351cid was down to a wimpy 266hp. The Mustang with any kind of muscle was dead and would not really get revived until recently.
Due to the short but rich history of the real Mustangs we need to keep on restoring or preserving them so that the kids of today can have a chance to own a piece of history that will never come around again. Remember, restore them don't crush them.

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Ford Mustang Gets Glass Roof

Author: Anthony Fontanelle
Ford Motor Company's Mustang model, dubbed as America’s favorite muscle car will be celebrating its 45th anniversary in the automotive market. As a part of the celebration, Ford will answer the needs of consumers who want more natural light in their cars when driving by providing them a third roof option.
For the 2009 model year, Ford will add up the Ford Glass Roof Mustang in the company's product lineup. This new roof option will be available over the V6 powered Mustang as well as the high performance Mustang GT model starting at the summer of 2008. In addition, Ford offers the Glass Roof Mustang because of the increasing production of sunroofs in North America by about 200 percent.
According Derrick Kuzak, Ford’s group vice president, Global Product Development:“Mustang is an icon in our product lineup, and we are committed to keeping Mustang news fresh every year. As the automotive landscape becomes increasingly competitive, features such as a panoramic glass roof will help differentiate our products from the competition.”
With a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $1,995, the new glass roof is expected to provide customers with a less expensive option that a convertible model without compromising the versatility and climate-controlled environment of the coupe, according to Ford. The Glass roof of the Ford Mustang is made of tinted privacy glass. This allows the glass roof to reduce infrared rays and vehicle cool-down time by about 50 percent. The glass roof is also equipped with a built in manual roller blind that allows owners to further control exposure on the sun. Moreover, according to Ford, the glass roof also "protects interior fabric material from solar radiation deterioration and discoloration by reducing solar light transmittance" and "features a layer of vinyl that reduces noise, vibration and harshness."
Assembled at the Automotive Alliance International plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, the glass roof for the Ford Mustang is a safety glass, which means it will not shatter with sharp and jagged edges unlike other typical glasses used in the automotive industry.
Paul Randle, chief nameplate engineer also commented: “Quality is a continuous process. The whole team is passionate about it, which results in our paying attention to the smallest details. Our owners have high expectations, and we always want to meet them – with strong features like this new roof option, quality and performance.”
Other upcoming Ford Mustang models next year include the Mustang Bullitt and the powerful Shelby GT500KR, which will arrive in dealerships to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original Shelby Cobra GT500KR. Anyway, customers can also get Acura models like the CL equipped with Acura CL cold air intake while waiting for these Mustang models to arrive in showrooms.

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Buy Your Ford Mustang Online at a Great Price

Author: Jorge Gurza
If you want to buy your Ford Mustang online at a great price, you have to do so with your eyes wide open. It is easier if you want a new car that is fully protected by the manufacturer's warranty, although even then you have to be careful.
Even a new car could have stood outside a dealer's showroom unprotected from the elements all winter, and you certainly have to look at it before you buy. That goes with any car, let alone a pony car, and while it is easy to but online from a site a few hundred miles away, how are you going to check it out before you clinch the deal? As long as you understand the pitfalls as well as the benefits, then you can carry on with a degree of confidence.
A guarantee or warranty from the seller regard condition of bodywork is an absolute must, and if that is refused then you must think that there must be a reason. The vast majority of car salesmen are honest, no matter what you are led to believe, but they should be willing to back that honesty up with a guarantee.
Ford Mustangs can be driven hard and that means that the maintenance must be good. Most Mustang owners love their cars and look after them, but there are the few that don't. Be careful if the price seems unusually low, even for online, since you can more than exceed the money you saved by spending a fortune on repairs a few weeks down the road. The standard of that maintenance might also be questionable, because a lot of people go for afterparts because they are cheaper, but these are not always as good as parts from the original manufacturer.
Before buying you should ask the seller for everything needed to identify the vehicle: its model, year, place of manufacture, and details of the engine, transmission and so on. When inspecting the vehicle make sure that details on the ID plate by the driver's door ties up with the Vehicle Identification Number (V.I.N.) under the hood (or on the dash after 1968). If they don't tally, or if you can't find the plates, then don't buy the car.
The parts of your Mustang that could go wrong, and be very costly to you, include the chassis, bodywork, drivetrain and suspension. The drivetrain especially can be expensive, and unless you are a mechanic the best way is to pay for a qualified vehicle inspector. A corroded chassis could mean that your lovely new Ford Mustang is fit only for the scrapheap, and even a new engine and gearbox is very expensive. You could buy another used car for cheaper.
The signs to look for in your test drive are squeaks and squeals, rattles and oil spots when parked. The gears should change smoothly and quietly without being forced and there should be no rust. A good driver who takes care of the car will keep the bodywork immaculate. After your test drive, keep looking: don't buy right away. Shop around online and get an idea of the market price for the model you just checked out. If you are buying online you might have to hire a local expert to carry out the test drive for you.
If you are still interested, check out the history of your model and year. Take note of the various changes and make sure that the description fits your car. You will be able to choose with much more knowledge if you understand the history of the car, and the way it has developed over the years. You will also be able to show a degree of know-how when you speak to dealers, who might then be less liable try to take advantage and sell you a lemon. Dealers are always more wary with customers that show that they know what they are talking about.
You should also have a clear vision of what you want your car for. If you want a car just to drive around in than a Cobra might be more suitable for you than a powerful GT. So keep your intended use in mind, and then check up on the average prices of the type of Ford Mustang you are looking for. Kelley Blue Book and NADA will provide you with the book price of any specific Mustang model and year of manufacture, so you will know if you are being overcharged or not. It is always best to be armed with the proper prices when you are looking to buy a used car.
The main problem with buying online is that the seller could be a long way away from your home town, and you might not find it easy to actually see the car before buying it. If this is the case, make sure you have a money back guarantee should the car prove faulty or not as advertised. Some buyers in that kind of situation employ a local mechanic or auto service company to check over the car and provide a report. At least then you can be sure that the car has been examined by an expert.
You could ask for photocopies or scanned files of the service and repair history, but there is very little else you can do when purchasing from a distance. It is possible to get some great bargains online, and probably the best tip is to pay by credit card if possible, since you then have some degree of protection. However, the vast majority of online automobile transactions are completely honest and you will generally get what you pay for.
It is even possible to buy your Ford Mustang online on eBay, and you can get some great prices that way. As long as you know what you want and what price to expect, and take some common sense precautions in having the vehicle inspected before use, there is no reason why you cannot clinch a great online deal for your Ford Mustang, and get a good car online at a great price.

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The Ford Mustang

Author: Ethan Langevin
The Ford Mustang was first produced in 1964 at a plant in Dearborn, Michigan and first introduce at the New York World's Fair that same year. As time went on its history can be divided into four periods cleverly called generations one through five. The first generation lasted until around 1973 and the car was primarily designed around the idea of the Ford Falcon, an earlier car. In 1974 the second generation began and it lasted for about four years until 1978. It was designed around the Ford Pinto and some of its improvements included rack and pinion steering and a new frame that provided for a quieter and smoother ride. The third generation of mustangs lasted from 1979 to 1993, considerably longer the previous two generations. The new features of this generation included more trunk space and a completely redesigned interior that allowed for the seating of up to four people. The convertible was also introduced and became popular at this time. The fourth generation of mustangs started in 1994 to 2004. At this time the mustang was completely redesigned and the most popular models were equipped with slightly bigger engines. Also the convertible aspect began to disappear from production during this period. The fifth generation of mustangs started in 2005 and continues today. It was redesigned again at this time and its style became more similar to the mustangs of the sixties as opposed to those of the third and fourth generation. Its engine was also bigger than that of previous generations of Ford Mustang. That is pretty much all of the basic information about the ford mustang.

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