First, the vehicle looks fairly similar to our own 2010 Mustang renderings, including the angles of the taillights and the shape of the grille and headlights. Also, it says "2010 Ford Mustang" at the bottom of the vehicle. This is something someone could fake, but at the very least they did a good job.

Second, the timing is right. Assuming that they want to have these ready to jump on the buzz surrounding the new Mustang, this would be the time to start putting them together.

Third, and most importantly, the seller of the vehicle is based in Malaysia. In 1982, Mattel moved their Hot Wheels production plant from Hong Kong to Malaysia. It stands to reason that the first person who would be able to get their hands on a Mattel model before anyone else would be based in the Malaysia. The seller also seems to have a seller history that supports their claim that they sell lots of Hot Wheels vehicles.

We have our doubts, but this seems like it could be the real thing.

(Thanks to Jacob for the tip)

[eBay Motors]

The teaser image du jour of theshift knob from the 2010 Ford Mustang looked familiar to us (and to a few readers). Although the bezel and plastic molding over the transmission tunnel is clearly new, that giant aluminum ball looks awfully familiar. Maybe because it appears to be the spittin' image of the one found in the 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt we recently reviewed. Yes, that's right, you too can snag yourself the same shift knob as the 2010 Mustang for a wee fee of $109.95. Just remember though, in order to get the right fit, you'll have to order the shifter bezel and boot to go along with it. That'll set you back an additional $189.95. At these prices you're better off just buying the new 'stang.

Spy Report

We caught a prototype for the 2010 Mustang Convertible with a large chunk of its rear camouflage removed, giving us our first uncovered look at the new 'Stang's tail-lights, rear spoiler, and it's revised rear badging.

The new Mustang's rear lamps have two vertical white bars breaking up the expanse of red found on the current models tail-lights. The new treatment does away with the segmented look of the current lights, for a slightly cleaner look. The internal bezels on the red lenses will also provide more dynamic, eye-catching lighting elements.

While current Mustang convertibles have a raised rear wing supported by two posts, the new 'Stang will get a smoother lip spoiler that extends directly from the top of the rear deck. The center-mounted brake light is also wider and slimmer than on the current car. The overall result appears be a cleaner, smoother, more refined look.

The final update we can see involves the large circular rear badge. The current badge has some notchy, retro detailing, while the prototype's badge displays smoother, more modern surface development.