Jalopnik: ford mustang

Mad_Science Brings Us A Los Angeles DOTS-O-Rama!

Murilee Martin — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 10:00:00 EST

Über Bird team captain and PCH Poster Child Mad_Science has vast quantities of photographs of old and interesting street-parked SoCal machinery for us.

In truth, many parts of Los Angeles and Orange Counties offer as many old street-parked cars per capita as The Island That Time Forgot; it's even drier down there than in the Bay Area, and the worship of vintage cars runs strong. Here's what the Scientist has to say about his finds:

Los Angelinos don't register or wash their cars edition.

North-East LA (Silverlake, Glassell Park, Eagle Rock) could easily give Alameda a run for its money when it comes to keeping old cars alive. Of course, that's LA in general. With hardly any rain and no salt to promote corrosion, it's really easy to keep beater cars running forever...they just oxidize top-down from the sun and acid rain.

In shooting these, I noticed a ton of super-dusty cars with super-late registration, which suggests they might be abandoned or just flaunting the law. The cops around here have plenty of real crime to fight, so cracking down on the beaters of the poor isn't real high on their priorities list.

Anyway, I'll start with what might be the most malaisiest car ever: an olive-green, vinyl-topped Ford Maverick. This shining star of the Mustang II/Pinto family is parked right down the street from my house in charming Glassell Park, CA. As best I can tell, it's a '71...but they didn't change much over the years.

According to the Abuelita whose house it's in front of, it's abandoned. It was parked on a different nearby street for a few months with a "Se Vende" sign on it, but it looks like they gave up and just pushed it over here.

For the positively hideous exterior, the interior is in surprisingly good shape. And what's this? A Stickshift?! Probably a bean-counter special 3 speed OD with a 2.5:1 1st gear...but I'd like to believe it's a true 4spd behind a built 302. Best.Sleeper.Ever.

Also right down the street is the 3/4 Ton Chevy Pickup. "Yep, that's a pickup" pretty much sums it up. It clearly sees regular hauling duty, and the owner's taken good care of the interior (or had it re-done). They took the time to add late-model 8-lug take-offs, which probably weigh 1/2 what the original steelies did. My best guess on the year is towards the end of that generation, 69-72.

Around the corner, we find an Impala that's slowly being mummified by spiders. They've already tethered it to the ground and started sucking the tires dry. I've lived in this neighborhood for about 2 years, and I don't think it's moved as long as I've been here. The funny (tragic?) thing is, both the body and interior are about a "B-". The 327 might be a good motor for something smaller ('Vette, 'Maro or El Camino), but for this beast, we'd like to see that "3" switched to a "4". Some new tires and wheels (the 13"s aren't quite my thing) and a coat of primer, you'd be ready to cruise for really trashy ladies. Nothing like a 19-foot long two-door. That trunk looks big enough for a whole cheerleading squad.

Moving over to genuinely charming Eagle Rock, we see the DOTs material improving...
This '63 Falcon Futura Convertible is pretty puzzling. Aside from the massive layer of dust on it, it's in great shape. The top is perfect, the interior doesn't have a rip or stain. From the expired tags and the writing on the windshield, it looks like it spent some time in an impound/tow lot...but why? They better get that reg straightened out, or it could get towed for parking on a public street.

Right down the street from the '63 Falcon Futura Convertible is this red-rimed Falcon Ranchero ('65?). The paint's not perfect, but there's no major rust going on. From the bedliner and requisite Miscellaneous Crap in the Bed, it's pretty clear it gets used as intended. The red rims and Car Kulture sticker suggest this owner probably cruises around town with a pack of cigs rolled up in sleeve of their plaid shirt. There's no V8 badge, but if the shifter ball is to be believed, this puppy's got a 4speed. Sweet. I'd kill for this car.

Down the street from the Falcon vairants is a pretty standard While Mustang. I didn't catch the corners to see if it's a 67 or 68. It's got Cragars, a nicely patina-ed painjob, and a painted undercarriage that suggest its (likely numerous) owners have used it as intended (liquor store parking lot burnouts). The dust and spiderwebs tell me it's been sitting for a while. Again, get those tags current, or it's off to impound for you!

Cruising over to Silverlake (aka Hipster Ground Zero)...
...we've got a super-malaisey Jag XJ6L. It was once a Proper British Green...but that's starting to peel in a big way (no rust, though). I know nothing about Jags, but those sun-baked mega-bumpers and Wikipedia tell me this is probably a Series III. Again: registration, people!

While making a wrong turn, I noticed this 3-door 3/4 Ton Suburban. Never could figure out why it was important to not have a door on the driver's side. Anyway, it's about as textbook as it gets: 2wd, 350, tons of crap in the back, super-dusty. The blue-and-white is almost emasculating on something this big.

Coming into the final stretch, we've got a '64 Falcon, a Plymouth Fury III ('65?), a Studebaker Champ Pickup, a 67 Mustang and a '70 (?) Caddy Hearse with custom paint all within a quarter mile of each other on Silverlake main-drag Hyperion Blvd. The funny thing is, I was coming over here b/c there's a 68 Chevy Wagon and Checker Marathon that are usually over here...but gone today.

The Falcon is a super-clean Futura hardtop with AC and a 302 (says the For Sale sign). I love how the side-lines run into the rocket/jet tail lights. Maybe someone can fill me in on those aluminum Ford rims. There's no way those are OEM, right? Also not sure what's up with the driver's side mirror. Pep Boys didn't have a bright yellow one with blue LEDs?

A few steps in front of the Falcon, we come to find...

Apparently in '61 Studebaker bought the tooling for their Champ pickup beds from Dodge. You can see how well that turned out here. Yet another anti-registration activist. The interior looks pretty clean, and that paint looks about a quarter-inch thick. Not sure what's up with the wheels.

Parked a few feet in front of the Stude (and partially into a shrub) is a Fury III. Looking this one up, I learned that the "III" stands for the trim level (above "I" and "II"), and not the 3rd of anything. While the outside was super-dusty, the interior looked near-flawless (hope the AC works). The dark blue makes me think this was either a detective's car, or purchased by a cop for home use because he liked the one he got from the LAPD so much. The dual pipes and overstated shifter suggests it may have fallen into more hoony hands along the way.

Up from there, we've got a pretty clean, but otherwise unimpressive 67 Mustang. 302, C4, deluxe interior, and filthy. I'm cool with filthy beaters, but to see this guy on the street with 8 month out registration and 50lbs of "I've been sitting" dust on it is a travesty.

Ok, last but certainly not least is a white-with-blue-flames Caddy hearse. Google image search tells me that nose is probably a '70. Looks like it's been someone's "haul all my crap"-mobile for some time (note the trailer hitch). While the others had expired tags, this thing's got no plates at all! Good luck with this one Mr Tow Truck Driver.

California doesn't offer any kind of "finders keepers" program for abandoned cars, do they?

DOTS FAQ

2011 Ford Mustang Gets New 305 HP V6, 30 MPG

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:01:00 EST

The new 2011 Ford Mustang is putting the Camaro on notice with two new transmissions and a new all-aluminum 3.7-liter Duratec V6 making 305 HP and returning 30 MPG. Are you ready for the Pony Car Wars?

Here's the thing about V6 pony car variants, until very recently they were the "other" car to the V8 model. V6 Mustangs have long been reserved for high school cheerleaders and overweight middle managers. They were bark with no bite, style with no substance. The Camaro was the first car to buck that trend, offering a very well received 300 HP V6 returning 29 MPG. Of course, at Ford, this kind of challenge was not taken sitting down.

Meet the 3.7 liter Duratec V6, it makes 305 HP and 30 MPG. See, even in the V6 segment the pony car wars are still going. The 3.7 is the first rear-wheel-drive application for this engine family, in simple terms it's a punched-out 3.5 liter, except this one's got some considerable upgrades. While it's still a port injected engine, it's a cast aluminum 60 degree V-engine (replacing the 90 degree outgoing engine) with four-valves-per-cylinder, variable valve timing on both the intake and exhaust with cam's capable of up to 60 degrees of phasing on the intake and 50% on the exhaust. The system operates on oil pressure and the actuators and pressure cavities are integrated with the camshaft bearing endcaps. Keeping parts integrated keeps the engine compact, it's actually smaller and lighter than the outgoing engine while making more power. If you don't care for changing the oil, the new V6 goes 10,000 miles between changes, so that's pretty interesting.

In addition to the new V6, there's a pair of new transmissions. Ford's ditching the iffy Tremec in favor of a manual 6-speed Getrag co-developed with Ford called the MT82. Its claim to durability and smoothness fame is that all gears on all shafts ride on needle bearings. There's also a new auto, an all-Ford 6-speed automatic transmission called the 6R80. It's the same box that goes into the 6.2-liter equipped Ford SVT Raptor with different guts. It's capable of paddle shifters but not so equipped in this application. It also jives with engine controls to do what Ford calls "tip in control" which eliminates gear shift "thunk" by adjusting torque output as the trans shifts.

Finally, just because the powertrain is the big story with the 2011 Mustang V6 doesn't mean there's aren't significant upgrades elsewhere in the car. Standard now are GT disc brakes all around, optional 19 inch wheels, stiffer bushings, bigger stabilizer bar, dual exhaust standard, low rolling resistance tires, and 7% better aerodynamics because fascia tuning, an underbody tray and wheel spats. Anyone who's been in the convertible knew cowl shake was a problem, and as such Ford's stiffened things quite a bit, the 2011 is over 1000% stiffer than the 2010. That's not a typo. The improvements come in underbody and cowl cross-bracing and structural foam injected into the door pillars. 1000%, pretty impressive.

The inside also gets some tweaks, but nothing big, fold down rear headrests to comply with new head restraint requirements while allowing for the option of unsucky rear visibility. The gauge cluster graphics also get revised and there's also a trinkety accessory clip for the passenger sunvisor which allows you to clip in stuff like sunglasses holders or tissue holders or what-have-you. Things we're not interested in.

What we are interested in is the rather off-hand comment from one of the engineers regarding the track pack. Optional on the V6, the track pack turns things up a notch and makes it a track-day special. Said unnamed engineer mentioned there's a distinct possibility the track-pack equipped V6 will not only stick with the V8 track-pack 'Stang, it might even outrun it. Well, we would certainly be happy to test that theory out.

2011 Ford Mustang V-6 Goes High-Tech: New 305-HP Engine, Six-Speed Transmission, Expected to Deliver 30 MPG Highway

Dearborn, Mich., Nov. 30, 2009 – The 2011 Ford Mustang puts 305 high-performance horses in the hands of V-6 coupe buyers with a new all-aluminum dual-overhead cam (DOHC) engine that delivers a projected 30 mpg on the highway with a six-speed automatic transmission and fun for drivers on nearly every road.

For 2011, Mustang's new 3.7-liter Duratec 24-valve V-6 uses advanced engineering to deliver its power and economy: Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) adjusts the valvetrain in microseconds. Aluminum construction means light weight. It's an engine designed to crank out torque down low, rev to 7,000 rpm and deliver the mechanical music sports coupe lovers crave everywhere in between.

"Mustang is completely transformed with this new engine," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Everything people love about the car is still there and now under the hood is a V-6 engine that uses premium technology to deliver the power, the feel, the fuel efficiency, even the sound of the best sports coupes in the world."

New 3.7-liter V-6 engine
With Ti-VCT operating its four valves per cylinder, the new Mustang V-6 powerplant sends significantly more horsepower and torque (305 hp and 280 ft.-lb.) to the rear wheels than its predecessor – despite its smaller displacement. The behind-the-wheel feel is unlike any Mustang ever produced.

"This new V-6 engine really speaks to what Mustang is all about," said Barb Samardzich, Ford vice president of global powertrain engineering. "It produces power everywhere in the rev range and loves to be pushed hard. The Duratec 3.7-liter builds on our promise to use advanced technology to deliver both power and fuel economy."

The high output is due largely to Ti-VCT which allows variable control of valve operation across the rev range. The variable cams operate on a Direct Acting Mechanical Bucket (DAMB) valvetrain using polished buckets and roller finger followers to reduce friction. The end result is as much as a 3 percent improvement in fuel economy and a 10 percent improvement in power output versus traditional engines without these advanced features.

Ti-VCT is complemented by special-tuned composite upper and lower intake manifolds for efficient air delivery and lighter weight. Ignition power is delivered by a high-energy coil-on-plug design, while piston-cooling jets and a lightweight die-cast aluminum cylinder block improve the durability and efficiency of the 3.7-liter V-6 design.

Performance was the mantra for every aspect of engine design. A cold air induction system and dual exhaust give the 3.7 its free-breathing style with a 7,000 rpm redline and near-instantaneous response to throttle inputs.

A die-cast aluminum deep-sump oil pan provides 10,000-mile oil change intervals, saving drivers money on maintenance and resulting in less waste in oil disposal.

Engineers also worked to ensure aggressive, high-performance sounds come from the new engine, from intake to exhaust. Not only does the retuned air intake system minimize losses, it also provides the driver with a satisfying intake rush on hard acceleration. The all-new dual exhaust system is mellow at idle but opens up with a howl at full-tilt, letting Mustang drivers know they're behind the wheel of a world-class sports coupe.

"This car marks a new type of Mustang," said David Pericak, Mustang chief nameplate engineer. "We're using a high-performance quad-cam V-6 with all the bells and whistles in a car that's become legendary for its handling and roadholding; it's really going to get a lot of new sports coupe fans excited about Mustang, some for the first time ever."

Powertrain improvements
Drivers can get the most out of the new V-6 engine's output using either an all-new six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission. Both come with the flexibility and fuel economy benefits of six forward ratios regardless of whether buyers want to shift for themselves or not.

Drivers who prefer a manual gearbox will enjoy the short throws and direct feel of the shifter along with the relaxed cruising permitted by the extra top gear ratio. Customers choosing the automatic will be pleasantly surprised to find the advanced six-speed 6R60 transmission does not sacrifice fuel economy – or performance – for convenience, delivering an expected 30 mpg highway with crisp, quick shifts that maximize torque and horsepower.

The automatic transmission also features a grade-assist or "hill mode" to improve drivability on hilly terrain. This technical innovation uses vehicle input – acceleration, pedal position, vehicle speed and brake status – to automatically determine the correct gear ratio while on an incline or decline. Hill mode eliminates sixth gear, extends lower gear operation on uphill climbs, and provides additional grade or engine braking for coast downs.

The standard 2.73 rear axle provides an ideal blend of cruising fuel economy and acceleration, aided by the wide ratio spread permitted through the use of six forward speeds in the gearboxes. Performance enthusiasts can select an available 3.31 rear axle ratio for better off-the-line launch characteristics.

Fuel economy improvements
Extra horsepower and refined engine operation will be the most noticeable features to new 2011 Mustang 3.7-liter V-6 buyers while projected class-leading fuel economy, also a standard feature, offers an additional bonus. The numbers speak for themselves:
19 mpg city/30 highway with six-speed automatic transmission, up from 16 mpg city/
24 highway on the 2010 model with automatic – a 25 percent improvement over 2010
18 mpg city/29 highway with six-speed manual transmission, up from 18 mpg city/26 highway on the 2010 model with manual

Refinements throughout Mustang's body, powertrain and chassis design contribute to the improved fuel economy numbers. Examples include:
The new Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system which eliminates the drag of an engine-operated hydraulic power steering pump
Six-speed transmissions that allow lower cruising revs without sacrificing off-the-line performance
Aerodynamic improvements such as a new front fascia, tire spats on the rear wheels, modified underbody shields, a taller air dam and an added rear decklid seal
Handling and driving dynamics
With so much additional horsepower standard, the 2011 Mustang received enhancements to its chassis to maintain the outstanding balance and driving behavior Mustang owners expect. Damper tuning and spring rates were revised to provide a smooth highway ride while a new rear lower control arm and stiffened stabilizer bar bushings improve stiffness and handling for better cornering response.

While Mustang's aerodynamic improvements were designed mainly to improve fuel economy, engineers also adjusted the vehicle's front/rear lift balance. The result is a car that tracks more securely and feels more "planted" to the road surface at higher speeds, helping to keep the tires in better contact with the pavement.

The addition of EPAS marks a new era in driving dynamics for Mustang owners. Steering effort at parking lot speeds is reduced, while high-speed and highway feel is improved for more precise steering and handling. Because the belt-driven power steering pump is eliminated, EPAS provides a quieter vehicle with fewer components drawing engine power.

EPAS also enables new technologies that adjust for minor driving annoyances. Pull-Drift Compensation adjusts the steering to correct for crosswinds and minor road crowning, while Active Nibble Control helps eliminate the "shimmy" felt at high speeds when a wheel is out of balance or a brake rotor is warped. Both conditions are alleviated by EPAS independent of driver input, helping ensure Mustang delivers a smooth, comfortable driving experience in all conditions.

Mustang buyers choosing the new V-6 will also get a standard limited-slip differential that provides better handling and more sure-footed grip in poor weather conditions by directing engine torque to the rear wheel with the most traction. When the time comes to slow things down, the 2011 Mustang is also equipped with larger four-wheel ABS disc brakes, with 11.5 inch front and 11.8 inch rear rotors.

Refinements complement advanced features
To reinforce the sporty nature of the 2011 Mustang, all V-6 models will come standard with new instrument cluster graphics, including a speedometer that reads up to 160 mph and a tachometer that reads to 8,000 rpm, reflecting the free-revving style of the new engine.

Additional lightweight soundproofing measures help filter unpleasant, high-frequency noises while tuned intake and dual exhaust add the sounds Mustang buyers relish.

Occupants also benefit from new door seals and a rear wheel arch liner that reduce road noise for a quieter, more enjoyable drive, all with minimal weight gain compared to the 2010 model.

Enthusiasts who want a premium performance-oriented Mustang V-6 can opt for the new Performance Package, which will be available August 2010. Designed for driving enthusiasts, the Mustang V-6 Performance Package comprises:
A 3.31 rear axle ratio for quicker off-the-line acceleration
Firmer Mustang GT suspension
19-inch wheels
Summer performance tires for improved grip
A strut tower brace for increased chassis rigidity
Unique electronic stability control calibration with sport mode for performance driving

For 2011, Mustang also ups the ante on technology and convenience features, including a standard driver's message center in the instrument cluster and integrated blind-spot mirrors in the side-view mirror housings.

Ford's MyKey™ system, designed to encourage safer teen driving and safety belt use, also is newly available on Mustang. MyKey allows owners to program the vehicle key using the driver's message center to incorporate features such as limited top vehicle speed and audio volume, a traction control system that cannot be deactivated, a persistent Belt-Minder® safety belt reminder and various speed alert chimes.

Top safety marks expected
Mustang's technological advances are also incorporated in the structure of the vehicle to improve safety. The 2010 Mustang coupe earned the U.S. government's top five-star crash-test rating, a designation the 2011 model is expected to achieve.

The Mustang's considerable body stiffness contributes to the coupe and convertible's driving performance and has a parallel benefit in accident protection. While the coupe's body structure is approximately 31 percent stiffer than the previous Mustang platform, the convertible's is more than twice as stiff – creating a structure that helps protect the cabin from deformation and intrusion in an impact.

Mustang also uses high-strength steel in its body structure and ultra-high-strength steel in the door intrusion beams for additional side-impact protection.

The front structure's crush zones are computer-designed to absorb energy in a controlled manner and help dissipate it before it can reach the passenger compartment. Ford engineers have run thousands of design iterations of the Mustang's front rails to arrive at an octagonal shape that helps spread crash forces evenly to aid in protecting occupants.

State-of-the-art technology adds to the convenience and safety of the 2011 Mustang, from the availability of the latest version of Ford SYNC®, with applications such as Traffic, Directions and Information, 911 Assist™ and Vehicle Health Report, to standard AdvanceTrac® Electronic Stability Control, which complements the all-speed traction control and standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Additional standard safety equipment includes the Personal Safety System™ which features dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, safety belt pretensioners and Belt-Minder.

The 2011 Mustang will be built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The new 3.7-liter V-6 will be built at Ford's recently retooled Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1.

Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) Helps Make 2011 Ford Mustang V6 a True Thoroughbred

-Ti-VCT technology key to Mustang's new 3.7-liter V-6 engine's flexibility, delivering
305 horsepower and a projected 30 mpg highway with six-speed automatic transmission –
no other vehicle in the industry can beat that combination

-Variable camshaft timing uses oil pressure to adjust valve opening and closing events, providing improved off-the-line acceleration over non-VCT equipped engines

-Variable valve overlap from Ti-VCT provides better fuel economy and emissions, along with optimized cold-start operation vs. conventional engines

Dearborn, Mich., Nov. 30, 2009 – The heart of every Mustang is its engine, and beneath the hood of the new 2011 Ford Mustang V-6 beats a technological tour de force. Displacing 3.7 liters, the dual-overhead-camshaft (DOHC) 24-valve V-6 uses Ford's Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT) to produce 305 horsepower and 280 ft.-lb. of torque and is projected to deliver up to 30 mpg highway – a combination unbeaten by any other vehicle in the industry.

Customer benefits of Ti-VCT include extremely precise variable control of "valve overlap," or the window of time in which both the intake and exhaust valves in the engine are open simultaneously.

"This overlap control via Ti-VCT helps us eliminate compromises in the induction and exhaust systems," said Jim Mazuchowski, Ford manager of V-6 powertrain operations. "Drivers are going to notice improved low-speed torque and increased fuel economy and peak horsepower. Plus, there are benefits they won't notice, too, such as reduced emissions overall, especially at part-throttle."

The flexibility allowed by Ti-VCT means Mustang V-6 customers will experience:
Better off-the-line launch feel, with plenty of the low-end "grunt" for which Mustang is famous. Ti-VCT can deliver up to a 5 percent improvement in low-end torque and a 7 percent improvement in peak power versus non-Ti-VCT-equipped engines.
Improved fuel economy at all engine speeds resulting in projected 19 mpg city/30 highway with six-speed automatic transmission; 18 mpg city/29 highway with six-speed manual transmission. Ti-VCT alone can account for up to a 4.5 percent fuel economy improvement over non-VCT-equipped engines.
Lower emissions, with better control of NOx and HC throughout the range of engine
operating speeds, reducing atmospheric pollution.

How the technology works
As a DOHC design, the 3.7-liter V-6 uses two camshafts per cylinder bank – one to open the intake valves and one to open the exhaust valves. Traditionally, camshafts only have been able to open the valves at a fixed point defined during engine design and manufacturing. But with modern variable cam timing systems, the camshafts can be rotated slightly relative to their initial position, allowing the cam timing to be "advanced" or "retarded."

Ti-VCT takes this technology and applies it to both the intake and exhaust camshafts of its DOHC design, using electronic solenoid valves to direct high-pressure oil to control vanes in each of the camshaft sprocket housings. By using one valve per camshaft, controlled by the Electronic Control Module (ECM), each intake and exhaust cam can be advanced or retarded independently of the other as engine operating conditions change, providing an exceptional degree of valve timing control.

The new 3.7-liter engine for the 2011 Mustang V-6 will be built at Ford's recently retooled Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1.

2011 Ford Mustang V6 Performance Package Boosts Handling, Braking; Car Now Road-Course Ready

- All-new 2011 Mustang V-6 joins the ranks of performance-tuned Mustang offerings worldwide; available Performance Package combines lightweight 305-horsepower all-aluminum V-6, a 3:31 performance rear axle and Mustang GT-based suspension and braking components
- Unique 19-inch wheels and Pirelli performance tires provide superb grip and aggressive appearance
- Electronic stability control calibration features Sport mode for high-performance driving and track-oriented events

Dearborn, Mich., Nov. 30, 2009 – Around the globe, Ford's performance-tuned cars are known to provide an uncompromised driving experience in a remarkably civilized package. Growing from that tradition, the new 2011 Ford Mustang V-6 will offer an optional factory-installed Performance Package that combines high-tech horsepower and a taut suspension in a package that will appeal to track-day fans and sports car aficionados alike.

Powered by the same 305-horsepower all-aluminum Ti-VCT V-6 as the new 2011 Mustang, the Performance Package takes advantage of the new engine's lightweight and high-revving nature to deliver a nimble performance car equally at home on a road course or a road trip.

"The new Performance Package delivers on fast, fun and affordable, combining the all-new 2011
V-6 with Mustang GT prowess," said Dave Pericak, Mustang chief nameplate engineer. "It's a true sports car for the new generation and a smart choice for the environmentally-conscious enthusiast. It is a perfect marriage of power, performance and value."

Borrowing from the Mustang GT, the Performance Package includes numerous suspension, braking and body stiffening upgrades to deliver unparalleled handling performance. That road-holding is helped by a near-equal front/rear weight distribution, providing exceptional transient response along with the car's slimmed-down curb weight of less than 3,500 pounds.

2011 Mustang Performance Package upgrades include:
A 3.31 rear axle ratio for quicker off-the-line acceleration
Mustang GT coupe front and rear stabilizer bars
Mustang GT front struts and rear shocks/springs
Shelby GT500 rear lower control arm
Unique 19-inch wheels
Pirelli performance tires for improved grip
Mustang GT front and rear brake calipers with Performance Friction pads
A strut tower brace for increased body rigidity
Unique electronic stability control calibration with Sport mode for performance driving
Unique badging

The 2011 Mustang V-6 Performance Package will be available beginning late next summer, built at the Auto Alliance International Plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The new 3.7-liter V-6 will be built at Ford's retooled Cleveland Engine Plant No. 1.

Abandoned Cars Down In The Kentucky Weeds

Murilee Martin — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST

This is Down On The Street Bonus Edition, where we check out interesting street-parked cars located in places other than the Island That Rust Forgot. Goingincirclez took some arty shots of sad-looking discarded cars found on Kentucky roadsides.

We've got a Nash Cosmopolitan, a couple of early Mustangs, and a Ford F-250 sitting at the roadside:

I see you're a junkyard rat like I am. Or at least I would still be if there were decent pic-n-pulls here in central KY. Anyhow, what about cars that are simply abandoned and left to rot? Thought you might enjoy some shots of a 1952 Lincoln I found on the side of the road, and several Mustangs and other cars doing hard time at my in-laws' farm (long sad story there). I had planned to search out old cars and photograph them in a similar matter; life sorta got in the way the last couple years but I just ordered a new camera and hope to get out there again.

(All is not lost at the farm though, a 1966 Mustang vertible and a 1929 Model A Roadster Pickup (!) await resoration, and I'll be spending a week in June clearing out space in a barn to move the Model A and inventory all its parts - I want to see it rebuilt and do it myself if I can).

DOTS FAQ

2011 Ford Mustang Available In March, California Special Returns

Ray Wert — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Sneaky dealers have already gleaned more details from order screens on what (and when) to expect from the 2011 Ford Mustang. So far we've learned of the return of the California Special, an SVT performance package and more below.

* California Special (GT/CS) Returns (Package 402A)
* SVT Performance Package (Option 67F)
* Brembo Brake Package (Option 55D)
* 6-speed Automatic Transmission available
* (3) – 19-inch tire options available
* Order Banks open January 18, 2010
* JOB 1 begins March 15, 2010

[GMInsideNews via MustangHeaven]

First Production Ford Mustang On EBay: Buy It Now For $5.5 Million!

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST

This 1964.5 Ford Mustang convertible, number #100212, is believed to be the very first Mustang built on the production assembly line and sold to the public. It's for sale on eBay. Buy it now for an astonishing $5.5 million.

$5.5 million is a helluva a lot of ducats to spend on a 45-year-old car with no heater and an original sale price of $3,318.60, but this sucker's apparently been established as the very first Mustang to roll down Ford's assembly line. That means it's got a born-on-date of March 9, 1964, making it the 212th Mustang built — following 211 prototype and promotional cars built in the Allen Park prototype facility. Although it now lives as a museum piece, this first of an unbroken progeny of nine million cars wearing the same name, still managed to get over 55,000 miles on the odometer in its lifetime.

The eBay listing is worth a look for no other reason than to check out the cool history of the early cars. [Ebay

First 1964.5 Ford Mustang Gallery

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:39:01 EST

Need For Speed Gamers Race Real Mustangs Against Video Game Mustangs

Wes Siler — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:00:00 EST

Ford brought a few Need For Speed SHIFT gamers to Willow Springs to see if they could break their virtual lap times for real. Could they? Of course not.

A marketing ploy, sure, but we have a thing for any marketing exercise which carries risk of serious injury and/or death. This should also definitely prove to armchair racers that they're faster in their minds than they would be behind a real steering wheel (force feedback doesn't count). Of course it also proves that the 2010 Ford Mustang GTs stability control is now so good that it kept four nincompoops from killing themselves in a powerful RWD car, I mean really, did you see how they were driving in the game?

Mustang RTR-C: First Live Shot In The Expensive Carbon Fiber Flesh

Ray Wert — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:00:00 EST

Here's the first shot of Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s $135,000 all carbon fiber-bodied, 550 HP monster called the Mustang RTR-C. We'll have more later from the SEMA show floor.

Mustang RTR: An RTR-C Without The Carbon Fiber, Insane Price

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:30:00 EST

Do you like the all-carbon fiber Mustang RTR-C but lack deep enough pockets to buy one? You're in luck. There's also this non-carbon-fiber Mustang RTR that's considerably cheaper, still drifts as hard, AND it'll be a dealer-installable kit.

So it doesn't have the ridiculous carbon fiber body, but that's okay. It does have performance shocks, 1.5" lower suspension, stiffer rear anti-roll bar, cross-drilled brake rotors, a 9 HP bump from a Ford Racing K&N intake and freer-flowing exhaust and performance Falken tires on fancy wheels. You also get a pretty cool chin spoiler, paint and rear spoiler. The package will be available as a dealer installed option and will most certainly not come close to the RTR-C's $135,000 asking price. [Mustang RTR, Speed Hunters]

Mustang RTR-C: A $135,000 Carbon Fiber Super-'Stang

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:00:00 EST

Drift-master Vaughn Gittin Jr. has build an all carbon fiber-body, 550 HP monster called the Mustang RTR-C, debuting at SEMA. Since it turned out so well, he's decided to sell ten to the public — for $135,000 each.

The car was built by Autosport Dynamics (ASD) in Charlotte, NC and aside from the crazy dry carbon fiber body, it also features goodies like in-car adjustable shocks, and carbon fiber HRE wheels. If you're interested in some serious weight savings in a Mustang, get your wallet ready cause the ten available for public consumption will cost $135,000. These are just teaser images now, but we'll try to take a look when it debuts this week at SEMA. [Mustang RTR-C, Speedhunters]

Mustang RTR Gallery

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 10:30:06 EST

Ford Bringing Slew Of Tarted-Up 'Stangs To SEMA

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:30:00 EDT

Ford's the marquee sponsor of this year's SEMA show in Vegas and a whole stable full of custom 2010 Ford Mustang is coming along. The full rendered gallery and descriptions of the cars below.

2010 Ford Mustang by 3dCarbon
The 3dCarbon Mustang is different from all other Mustangs because it is the true Boy Racer – an award-winning, full-body styling concept that was originally introduced with the 2005 Mustang body style. 3dCarbon introduces the 2010 Boy Racer – an evolution of styling from the old to the new featuring a bold aerodynamic design. The 3d Boy Racer is sure to turn heads.

2010 Ford Mustang by Galpin Auto Sports
The Mustang GT Convertible is the true American thrill machine, and that thrill doubles with a Ford Racing 550-horsepower supercharger and one-of-a-kind custom wide body. This is the car to have – whether you're out on the road with the top down or in the city for a night on the town.

2010 Ford Mustang by H&R Special Springs
H&R Special Springs has taken a new 2010 Mustang and built a time machine that is making the future visible now. Working from awesome new styling cues, H&R brings the future closer; from the personalized colorized wheels and subtle LED lighting accents on the exterior to the luxurious white accents inside, custom tuning is the wave.

2010 Ford Mustang by Paul's High Performance
This 2010 Mustang GT is unmistakably built for the quarter-mile drag strip, with low elapsed times in mind. From the functional hood to the rear wing, its aggressive wheels, tires, exhaust and custom-designed Paul's High Performance products are all specifically tuned for maximum performance. Following in the Paul's High Performance tradition, this GT screams "Record breaker!" while showing off Mustang's impressive new body styling, which is way ahead of the competition.

2010 Ford Mustang by Steeda Autosports
The Steeda Q350 – embodied with the very soul of Mustang performance – provides a dynamic, super responsive and absolutely confident driving experience. With more wins, records and championships in production-based Mustangs than any other specialty manufacturer, the Steeda Q350 is both track tested and street legal. From the racetrack to the open road, the Steeda Q series never fails to amaze, combining the dynamics and agility of a high-performance sports racer with the everyday practicality and comfort of America's original pony car – all in one integrated package.

2010 Ford Mustang by Street Scene Equipment
Street Scene Equipment once again leads the way with race-like styling for the street, and power, handling and style incorporated into the perfect package. This Mustang from Street Scene Equipment is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.

2010 Ford Mustang by Vaughn Gittin Jr.
World championship drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr. has introduced a new generation of Mustang to the world with the Mustang RTR. The extremely limited-production Mustang RTR-C puts still more muscle behind the already incredible 2010 Ford Mustang GT. Balancing 550 tire-shredding American horsepower with new-generation design influences, Vaughn has incorporated state-of-the-art technology with first-rate carbon fiber body construction to make the Mustang RTR-C one incredible-looking, raw performance machine.

2010 Ford Mustang by Ford Vehicle Personalization
Powered by imagination, this Ford Mustang showcases Ford Custom Accessories. The metallic gold design cues are inspired by such premier fashion designers as Prada, Stella McCartney and Balenciaga. The vehicle features unique Carbon Black Metallic exterior custom paint that is accented by gold 20-inch wheels and gold-tinted headlights and fog lamps. Inside, the gold theme continues with leather seat and door trim inserts, steering wheel cover and shifter boot.

Eight Great Mustangs From Racing History

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:30:00 EDT

Like it or loathe it, the NASCAR Ford Mustang is part of a long history of Mustang racing. Here's a look at the most noteworthy examples of Mustang racing below.

Click "Next" to take a trip down Mustang Memory Lane and make sure to drop your favorite racing Mustang in the comments.

Car: 1965 Ford Mustang A/FX
Racing Series: NHRA A/Experimental, Factory Stock
Years:1965 - 1966
Cool Stuff: Commissioned by Ford and built with express intent of drag racing. 11 were built, half with 427 cammers, and sold to drag racers for a princely sum of $1.
Drivers: Dick Brannan, Bill Lawton, Les Ritchey, Clester Andrews, Al Joniec, Paul Norris, Len Richter, Phil Bonner, Gas Ronda
Major Wins: Numerous local track wins.

Car: 1965 Ford Mustang GT350R
Racing Series: SCCA
Years:1965-1967
Drivers: Jerry Titus, Bob Johnson, Mark Donohue
Major Wins: SCCA B-class production in 1965, '66, and '67, manufacturers championship

Car: 1970 Mustang Boss 302
Racing Series: Trans Am
Years: 1970-1973
Drivers: Parnelli Jones, George Follmer
Major Wins: Manufacturers' championship

Car: 1984 Mustang GTO
Racing Series: IMSA GTO
Years: 1984-1986
Drivers: Wally Dallenbach Jr., John Jones, Scott Pruett, Lynn St. James, Doc Bundy
Major Wins: 1985 GTO Drivers' championship, Daytona 24 Hours, Manufacturers' championships in 1985 and '86

Photo credit: Mark Windecker

Car: Trans Am Mustang
Racing Series: Trans Am
Years: 1999
Drivers: Paul Gentilozzi
Major Wins: Trans Am Championship

Car: John Force Mustang
Racing Series: NHRA Top Fuel
Years: 2000-
Drivers: John Force, Ashley Force
Major Wins: Pretty much everything in NHRA

Car: Mustang drift racer
Racing Series: Formula Drift
Years: 2005-
Drivers: Vaugh Gittin Jr.
Major Wins: Manufacturer's title in 2005 & 2008

Car: NASCAR Ford Mustang Car of Tomorrow
Racing Series: NASCAR Nationwide
Years: 2009 -
Drivers: Colin Braun
Major Wins: none yet

NASCAR Ford Mustang Revealed

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 14:05:00 EDT

Here it is folks, the NASCAR Ford Mustang. The number 16 Con-way Freight car of Roush Fenway Racing will be piloted by Colin Braun in the NASCAR Nastionwide series.

FORD, RFR, CON-WAY FREIGHT UNVEIL NEW 2010 NATIONWIDE MUSTANG
10/13/2009

TRUCK SERIES 2008 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR COLIN BRAUN WILL DRIVE THE NO. 16 CON-WAY FREIGHT MUSTANG

Concord, N.C. - A new era of Mustang racing rolled out here today, piloted by an All-American driver and with a returning sponsor familiar to loyal NASCAR fans.

Three major events were rolled into one today as Ford teamed up with Roush Fenway Racing and Con-way Freight to unveil the No. 16 Con-way Freight Mustang with driver Colin Braun at Roush Fenway Racing headquarters in Concord, N.C.

Ford announced in July that Mustang, the iconic pony car that has raced for all 45 years of its existence, would compete in the NASCAR Nationwide Series beginning in July 2010 when a limited rollout of NASCAR's new car begins at Daytona International Speedway. Today marked the first time the NASCAR Mustang was seen in public.

Braun, 21, a native of Ovalo, Texas, will make the move from the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series, where he was the 2008 Raybestos Rookie of the Year, to a full-time Nationwide program next season, along with Con-way Freight, which has been his sponsor for the last two years. Roush Fenway and Con-way Freight recently agreed on a contract extension to remain as a primary sponsor for 18 Nationwide races within the organization.

"I'm so happy that Con-way Freight decided to move up with me to the Nationwide Series for 2010," Braun said. "They have been a great sponsor for the past two years in the truck series so it means a lot to me that they will continue to support me in the future. I'm also looking forward to driving a Mustang next year. I've always thought they are such incredible cars, but have never owned one. Maybe when I win my first race the guys at Ford will want to give me one of my own."

Mustang has a storied history in motorsports and can claim more than 2,000 professional race wins worldwide. Its iconic standing in the auto industry aside, Mustang brings a breath of fresh air and new sense of excitement to the NASCAR Nationwide Series.

"This truly marks the start of the next era of Mustang racing," said Brian Wolfe, director, Ford North America Motorsports. "We fully expect this Mustang, with drivers like Colin behind the wheel, to start to enjoy the kind of success so many other Mustang racing programs have enjoyed throughout the last four decades.

"Mustang is a proud and historic brand for Ford. This is a car born to race, and NASCAR is the next logical step for its racing pedigree."

Braun and Con-way Freight have had good success together and are experiencing a breakout season in 2009. Braun started the season by capturing his first of his three poles to date in the season-opening race at Daytona, and followed that up with his first NASCAR win, which came at Michigan International Speedway in June. He finished 13th in the point standings last year and currently sits seventh with five races remaining this season.

"We're excited to help unveil the 2010 NASCAR Nationwide Mustang, and to announce Con-way Freight's first-ever sponsorship in the Nationwide Series," said John G. Labrie, president, Con-way Freight. "The opportunity to continue working with Ford, Roush Fenway Racing and Colin Braun is a great one for us. Colin's talent on the track and competitive spirit remind us of our more than 20,000 employees and the commitment they bring to their jobs every day. All of us at Con-way Freight look forward to supporting Colin all the way to another Rookie of the Year win in 2010."

Con-way Freight's first venture into racing took place in 2005. In 2006, the company rebranded and changed its name, and a racing sponsorship provided an ideal opportunity to build awareness of the Con-way Freight brand in an entertaining and exciting way for both customers and employees.

"Through the first five years of Con-way Racing, we saw that the program was a huge win for Con-way Freight and our customers, so we made the decision to move forward with a new affiliation with Ford, Roush Fenway Racing and Colin Braun," said Bill Wynne, vice president of marketing, Con-way Freight. "We've seen tremendous rewards from those relationships, and that's why we're here today to announce a new era of Con-way Racing action in the NASCAR Nationwide Series."

Mustang currently competes professionally in the NHRA Funny Car and Pro Stock divisions and places like the Grand-Am Koni Challenge, SCCA World Challenge, and the Mustang Challenge Series. In addition, thousands of Mustangs see action by grassroots racers at road courses and drag strips all across America.

"I have been a Mustang owner and enthusiast for many years myself so this is an exciting day to see this car racing in NASCAR," said car owner Jack Roush. "My teams have won several road racing championships over the years in Mustangs, and I look forward to winning more with Colin, Carl [Edwards] and Ricky [Stenhouse Jr.]. With the continued support of Ford and Con-way Freight we plan to give Colin the opportunity for his second Rookie of the Year title in NASCAR, and ultimately a Nationwide Series championship."

Overall, Roush Fenway Racing has the most all-time victories in the NASCAR Nationwide Series with 107 and two driver championships, courtesy of Greg Biffle (2002) and Carl Edwards (2007).

[Ford Racing]

NASCAR Mustang Teased Ahead of Unveil

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 07:00:00 EDT

Today's the first day the muscle car wars collide with the NASCAR world. The NASCAR Ford Mustang race car will be unveiled at 1PM EST but until then, here's the first sneak peek at things to come. [Ford via MustangEvolution]

Huge Cache Of Mustangs Can Be Yours For $700,000

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:00:00 EDT

Reader Brian B was on vacation when he accidentally stumbled upon a massive collection of vintage Mustangs ranging in condition from crusty shells to pristine runners. The collector's widow's looking to sell you the whole lot for just $700,000.

It's another one of those cases every car geek dreams of, finding a little old lady looking to get rid of her recently deceased husband's car collection. This one just happens to be very focused in its range: nearly all Mustangs. There are some real gems in here too, we spotted at at least two Shelbys (in a terrible state of repair) and a couple of Machs, but without going it's impossible to know what's there.

We'll let Brian B tell the story and lay out his devious plans for the collection:

Dear Fellow Jalopnaholics,

I have just returned from a vacation somewhere tropical. On the way back form a day excursion I chose an alternate way back to the highway. Ok, I made wrong turn somewhere and rolled with it. This "scenic route" brought us upon what was recorded by these images. It was my wife who first saw them. "Oh look, Mustangs!" I turned my head in time to see a metric shitload of vintage ponies. I immediately turned around and pulled into the driveway. There was a gentleman in the yard who turned out to be the caretaker for the owner of the house/treasure trove. It turns out that the guy who collected all these cars recently succumbed to cancer and his wife wants all these pretty ponies sold en masse for what is by local standards the princely sum of $700 large (I think there plenty of room for negotiation here).

Herein lies my dilemma and why I have not given up exactly where in the Western Hemisphere they are located. Since I am a bit short of the liquid assets for such a transaction, I am looking for someone with sufficient wherewithal. In exchange for the missing info, I want a "finder's fee" of pick-of-the-litter of one of the ‘Stangs (obviously not one of the Shelbys) plus the old Ford Deuce – FOB, San Diego. I'll cover the transport from the Port of SD to my house J In addition to what you can see in the photos, there is also a Fiat 600, a mid-50's Chevy sedan and the Model A partially visible is a pickup. That's as best as I can recall but I think there's more.

I gotta say this was a shocking find. The temperature was about 90 degrees and the humidity was roughly 1000%. Naturally, I was sweating profusely yet as I walked around quickly taking these pictures (we were pressed for time) I had goose bumps. As you see from the images, the cars strewn about the yard were numerous and in various stages of oxidization. I'd estimate that more than half are savable, the rest will need to be scrapped but may well offer additional parts before succumbing to the crusher (or pulverizer, as the case may be). The most astounding specimens, as you can see, were in the large outbuilding. According to the caretaker, all are in running condition and most were in truly excellent shape. Additionally, there were racks upon racks of parts. Some were used but many were OE new parts that have never left their boxes. A separate outbuilding housed all manner of engines, engine parts and body panels.

The Good Widow will not entertain selling these piecemeal – the buyer must take everything. To the right buyer, this should not be a problem as the parts alone must be worth a small fortune. So, Dear Jalops, I need your help. These gorgeous Ponies need your help. I am perfectly willing to make a return trip to this tropical land with the buyer (on his/her dime) to act as guide/translator and to assist in the cataloging and return of these cars to civilization. While the location is remote, they are easily shippable back to their ancestral homeland. Please spread the word and save the ponies!

If you happen to have the itch to buy a huge pole of Mustangs and Mustang parts, and the scratch to pay that kind of price, you can contact Brian B at mustangrancher@gmail.com. And of course, if you pay a visit, you'll be required to send us more pictures and perhaps sell us one of the 'stangs for $500 for the next LeMons race.

A Real Mustang Ranch

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:35:22 EDT

1970 Ford Mustang Fastback

Murilee Martin — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:00:00 EDT

Welcome to Down On The Street, where we admire old vehicles found parked on the streets of the Island That Rust Forgot: Alameda, California. We've seen many Alameda Mustangs, but this is our first '70.

I've been saving a lot of street-parked Mustangs in reserve for this series, but the island has so many of them that I'm going to try to knock out the years we haven't seen yet: 1964-1/2, 1970, 1971, and 1972.

This car is owned by an Alameda High School classmate of mine, and it serves as his daily driver; he was a little concerned that it should get a bath before being photographed, but I explained that the whole point of DOTS is that these are real-world cars, not spotless trailer queens. You'll find it parked out in front of his shop, Royal Auto Repair, where it no doubt serves as an advertisement to the many original owners of 60s cars on the island.

First 500 DOTS Vehicles • DOTS FAQ

Next-Gen Shelby GT500 To Get 500+ HP "Road Runner" V8!

Ray Wert — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:00:00 EDT

Amid spy photos of a Coyote-engined Ford F-150, our friends at PickupTrucks.com tell us to expect a twin-turbo 5.0-liter "Road Runner" V8 with output of well over 500 HP to debut in the next-generation Shelby GT500 in 2012. Meep!Meep! [PickupTrucks.com]

2011 Mustang V6 To Out-Torque Camaro V6

Ray Wert — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 09:15:00 EDT

We already knew the 3.7-liter V6-powered 2011 Ford Mustang has a power output of 315 HP at 5,250 RPM. Sources now tell us peak torque will be 275 lb-ft at 3,500 RPM. Camaro-comparo graph below.

When the folks at The Mustang Source dropped power output numbers on the both the "Coyote"-powered 2011 Mustang GT and the 3.7-liter V6-powered 2011 Mustang, we'd only heard what horsepower would look like. And it looked strong — a Camaro V6-killing 315 HP.

Now sources have leaked to us the torque numbers and they're set to provide the same kind of a smack down — 275 lb-ft of torque. While that bests the 2010 Camaro V6 by merely 2 lb-ft, as we all know, the muscle car wars have always been a game of whipping power numbers out of your pants. So on the budget side — Ford's V6 looks like they'll win this round. Here's a quick graph we've worked up to show you the full secretary car tale of the tape: