Through the 1950s and 1960s, American automakers ambition to beat each other on the sales charts saw race tracks staging some of the fiercest battles in auto racing history. Muscle car era icons like the Chevrolet Camaro Z-28 and the Plymouth Superbird were specifically designed street cars purposed to wage combat in motorsports. When the Ford Mustang debuted in mid-1964, the pony car arose to be the blue oval brand’s vanguard in auto racing activities. The original Ford Mustang Boss 302 was unleashed as a weapon inside the popular SCCA Trans Am Series. Piloted by drivers like Parnelli Jones, the Mustang Boss 302 remains a cultural symbol identified for road racing.

Commanding respect on the twists and turns of many racing closed-course road circuits, the Ford Mustang Cobra Jet was unleashed as a straight-line competitor. In 1968, a total 50 Cobra Jet examples were produced and quickly emerged as a force to be reckoned with in stock-based drag racing. As Ford Motor Company brought the sizzle back to the Mustang with their 5th generation vehicle in 2005, the Cobra Jet name would return as a limited edition model for 2008. Twice more in 2010 and 2012 model year, the Ford Mustang Cobra Jet would be released as purpose-built drag racing vehicles.

Presented on the restyled 2013 Ford Mustang shown ahead of the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, the fifth reboot of the Cobra Jet nameplate was made at the Performance Racing Industry trade show in Orlando, Florida.

Built only for racing, the non-street legal 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet features discrete body modifications over the production model meant to lighten the pony car as well to focus weight for better performance. Worn on the side panels of the 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet is striking white and red graphics depicting the vehicle’s persona modeled after a venomous snake. Riding on Goodyear Eagle racing tires, the upcoming 2013 model of the Cobra Jet incorporates a refined suspension system optimized for better times at the beginning of a quarter-mile run. The new 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet also features driveability enhancements with electric power steering as well as an altered pedal ratio. Building a better mousetrap, the 2013 Mustang Cobra Jet improvements are a product of computer modeling and numerous drag racing runs.

The 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet features a cockpit ideal for living life one quarter-mile at a time. Providing safety and structural rigidity from a carefully designed roll cage, a drag racing pilot in the 2013 Mustang Cobra Jet will strap into fiberglass-constructed Recaro FIA racing seats said to be designed for the extreme rigors of motorsports.

While the 2010 and 2012 Cobra Jet models utilized the 5.4 liter displacement engine based off the SVT Mustang, Ford’s newest edition of the drag racing special presents downsized powerplants utilizing the storied 5.0 liter V-8 configuration. Presenting the option of naturally aspirated power or the extreme performance from a Ford Racing/Whippie supercharger, the cylinder and manifold for the aluminum block 5-liter V-8 engine is precision machined using a CNC production process. Details of the power output from the 2013 Cobra Jet powerplants has not been released (Ford was also tight-lipped on the 2012 Mustang Cobra Jet). Ford Racing had pegged a supercharged engine for the 2010 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet at 475 horsepower.

With 50 examples of the 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet, pricing for the upcoming vehicle starts close to double the price of a 2012 Shelby GT500. The naturally aspirated-engined 2013 Cobra Jet runs at $85,490 while the costlier supercharged version is priced at $92,990. Ford Performance Parts will tout a series of optional parts and components to potential buyers in January for the new Ford Mustang Cobra Jet guaranteed to inflate the vehicle‘s price tag. The first of the 50 cars comprising the 2013 model year Mustang Cobra Jet release is slated to roll off the AutoAlliance International facility at Flat Rock, Michigan in June of 2012. As early as late next year, it may be possible to see the 2013 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet in competition in NHRA Stock and Super Stock categories.

Even before the key for the first 2013 Mustang Cobra Jet is transferred into the hands of drag racers, fans are given an opportunity to interact with the 2013 Ford Cobra Jet through a vote. Given the choice between exterior colours classic white, silver or black, the 2013 Cobra Jet appearance will be determined by an on-line vote ending on December 31st 2011. Blue oval racing faithful can cast their choice shade through the Ford Racing Facebook page or the Ford Racing Parts website.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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2. Ford Teases 2013 Mustang; Attempts To Fend Off Chevrolet Camaro
3. Propane-Powered Mustang Drag Racers From Roush

Supplying 21st century with once-unobtainable access to a vehicle, a dizzying assortment of smartphone and tablet apps provides the driver with an out-of-car experience. Over the course of the past two years, virtually every automaker is now engaged with a brand-specific mobile application making their automotive products more accessible than ever before. Managing fuel consumption, connecting car breakdown cover companies or customizing a virtual car to the liking of a potential buyer, today’s merger of automotive and computer technology has spawned multiple apps worth highlighting.

OnStar RemoteLink

Developed as one of the early widespread adopters of vehicle telemetric technology, General Motors launched OnStar on 1997 model year Cadillacs. Becoming a technology that would be credited for saving lives in crashes and recovering vehicles through Stolen Vehicle Tracking, OnStar handed smartphone users their own free app designed to work in conjunction with existing plans.

Working on most Cadillac, Chevrolet, Buick and GMC vehicles equipped with OnStar, their RemoteLink mobile app feeds real-time information including fuel tank contents, oil life and tire pressures. Also available on the OnStar RemoteLink app is the ability to remotely lock or unlock a vehicle from anywhere within phone signal. For Chevrolet Volts, the OnStar RemoteLink app allows the user to monitor battery capacity and dictate electric charging times. A new feature available through the OnStar RemoteLink app relates to navigation. A mobile app use of OnStar RemoteLink can refer a destination to the OnStar center and will receive directions immediately on an in-dash navigation system or through the OnStar Turn-by-Turn service.

Rolls-Royce Ghost App

While even this so-called entry level Rolls-Royce Ghost’s six-figure price tag is beyond the means of many motorists, an Apple app allows practically anyone to bask in the glow of excess glamour. Designed for use on the Apple iPod Touch, iPhone and iPad, the Rolls-Royce Ghost app operates as a sales tool for the lucky of us who can even consider the super-luxury sedan. Providing a photorealistic virtual model of exterior as well as interior surfaces that can be tailored to an assortment of available colours and materials, the magnificence of Royce-Royce’s Ghost sedan is obtainable for all in the app world.

BMW i DriveNow and MyCityWay

A bold undertaking for the Munich, Germany automaker BMW, their radical sub-brand will become an epicenter of innovation. Presenting distinctive electrified vehicles to the marketplace by 2013, BMW i is also involved in spearheading several indirect ventures. The mobile apps DriveNow and MyCityWay fit into the planning for rethinking the way people commute.

Operating only in Munich and Berlin at this time, DriveNow is a vehicle by-demand service that allows users to quickly rent a car. Similar to several drive-sharing services set up in major cities, the BMW i supported business of DriveNow uses the mobile app to direct customers to available BMW and MINI products. Drivers will be billed by the minute for vehicle usage through the service.

MyCityWay is a comprehensive mobile application providing a complete collection of information relating to specific city areas. Merging as many as 50 Apps or more, MyCityWay provides mobile users everything from locating the nearest public restroom to the hippest events in town. Transit, weather and traffic alerts are also part of this extensive mobile app intended to minimize time traveling between destinations. Available for 40 cities at the end of 2011 on continents in Asia, Europe and in the Americas, MyCityWay is preparing for greater expansion in the near future along with the DriveNow service.

Ford Mustang Customizer App

Introduced in mid-September, Ford conceived a fun and interactive way for the tech world’s young citizen to relate to a vehicle that caused such uproars in the mid-1960s. Appearing first as a web-based program for desktop and laptop computers, the Mustang Customizer experience has migrated to the an app available through iPhone and Android supported devices. Providing an assortment of exterior dress-up equipment, 2012 Ford Mustang products (including the Boss 302 edition) can be customized to countless colour and factory available accessories.

Audi Roadside Assistance App

Designed to work with Audi Roadside Assistance coverage packages, the new service app available on Apple iPhones, Android and select Blackberry phones is free for use by covered motorists. Providing expedited breakdown coverage, owners in need of jump-start, fuel delivery or tire repair will have help arrive even in hard to distinguished locations thanks to a phone’s GPS capability. A great companion with Audi’s breakdown insurance plans, the Audi Roadside Assistance App can also allow owners of the luxury brand vehicles find the closest service center.

MyFord Mobile App

Prepared for the upcoming Ford Focus Electric vehicle, the MyFord Mobile App was devised to help future owners navigate with their zero emissions lifestyle. Relaying information pivotal for allowing users to optimize the capacity of the lithium-ion battery pack, MyFord Mobile App provides a driver the ability to calculate routes in relations to the available battery power storage. Recording your recent driving, the MyFord Mobile App allows you to download your vehicle’s data. Users can also share ownership milestones over social media networks Twitter and Facebook. Other basic features presented through MyFord Mobile App also includes door lock/unlock capability as well as GPS location of the Ford Focus Electric vehicle.

Information and photo source: Audi AG, BMW, Ford Motor Company, General Motors

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After 47 years since the first pony car rolled off a Dearborn, Michigan manufacturing facility, the Ford Mustang is a legend continuing to foster. With 51.564 examples sold in the first 8 months of 2011, the Ford Mustang outsells the Taurus and in falls just slightly behind the economy-priced Fiesta. Beyond the people who have the fortune to walk into a car dealership and drive away with a Ford Mustang, the car’s fanfare as the pinnacle of American performance captivates the attention of so many drivers or prospective drivers.

Thanks to the miracles of the virtual world, effective illusions allow gamers or the web-savvy car lovers to experience some form of the Ford Mustang ownership experience. Simulations involving the latest or even classic examples of the Ford pony car, Blue Oval fanatics are enriched by the control of their favourite two-door performance vehicle. A new on-line feature provided on Ford.com, enthusiasts and potential buyers are given an interactive chance to style a 2012 Ford Mustang.

Automakers developing on-line showroom tools is nothing new. Before a potential buyer enter one of many car dealers, the chance to view a vehicle in virtual form has been exploited for many years. The Ford Mustang Customizer lends some of the greatest levels of detail found in an on-line vehicle modification program. Introduced late last week, the Ford Mustang Customizer program unveils a dizzyingly high selection of virtual dress-up options.

A process starting with the selection from four versions of the 2012 Ford Mustang, the V6, GT, Boss 302 and the GT500 are provided through the Customizer website. Upon choosing a desired 2012 Ford Mustang model, a user can pick from an assortment of wheels, body modifications and colouring options.

Despite the popularity of Ford Mustangs at custom car exhibitions including the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, this web-based simulation delivers a fresh prospective on the original pony car. Along with some defined colours, the primary exterior colour tone can be fine-tuned to almost any imaginable look for the 2012 Ford Mustang. Through the options presented in the Ford Mustang Customizer, a user can play with aspects of a vehicle making a Mustang V6 look more aggressive or even shaving the aesthetic teeth of a Shelby GT500. If anyone would want to see a non-existent 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 convertible, the Customizer program can compile an image of how a hypothetical 2012 vehicle would appear.

Unique to the Ford Mustang Customizer, all of the accessories and dress-up components are available through their local Ford dealerships. In fact, a future buyer of a 2012 Ford Mustang can acquire a parts inventory list in form of a PDF file. It is at this point the virtual world involving the 2012 Ford Mustang enters the real, waking world (with real money being invested into car and components).

With those limited in budget, the time dedicated to customizing a 2012 Ford Mustang does not have to be lost. Once completed, a personalized Ford Mustang can be shared on Facebook or downloaded as wallpaper as a convenient JPEG format image. A user can also enter their design in a ‘Battle Mode’ competition where creations are judged by others on Facebook.

As of late Sunday September 18th, the customizing tool has turned out 15,261 customized Ford Mustangs. Available on the Internet now, Ford will be launching a Mobile App version of the program in the near future. Quickly gaining acceptance either as an automotive accessories research tool or as pony car-oriented entertainment, the Ford Mustang Customizer is continuing to make the Internet a perfect starting stage for purchasing dream vehicles.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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Contest 1

Ever wish you had a Mustang RTR to call your own? Well, with a bit of luck you just might.

Champion drift-driver Vaughn Gittin Jr. is designing a custom Iridium Edition Mustang RTR, and Bosch is going to give it away to one of their lucky Facebook fans! Fans can enter the giveaway simply by “liking” the Bosch Facebook page and filling out the form.

Vaughn Gittin Jr. is also documenting the process in four online webisodes, the first of which can be watched right now on the Facebook page. All sweepstakes entries must be received by October 16th so be sure to get yours in today.

Contest 2

In addition, we are partnering with Bosch on Automoblog.net to give away a prize pack, including a Bosch car battery-charger ($70 value), a Bosch spark plug gapping tool, and a set of the new Bosch Iridium Spark Plugs.

Employing OE design and manufacturing techniques, new Bosch Iridium Spark Plugs provide exceptional ignitability, meet or exceed OE requirements, and offer four times the service life of a standard copper core, nickel plug. Check out the article below to get all the details on these new plugs. You can view a video on the new Bosch Iridium spark plug on Bosch’s new YouTube channel. Bosch has also launched LightEmUp.com, a one stop shop with tons of technical info.

To enter that contest, just do the following:

Step 1:
“Like” Automoblog.net and Bosch on Facebook:

Step 2:
Head over to Bosch’s Parts Finder to find out which Iridium spark plugs you need in your car, the fill out this form to complete your entry:

That was easy! This contest will be ending September 19th and the winner will be chosen at random. Check out the images of the Bosch parts in the prize pack below, and good luck!

US entries only, please!

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3. Ford Teases 2013 Mustang; Attempts To Fend Off Chevrolet Camaro

A creation that has ruled roads for over 46 years, the Ford Mustang has a remarkable connection to the skies. Prior to the Ford Motor Company’s adoption of the Mustang name, an American World War Two P-51 fighter plane soared in the hands of air warriors. Another interesting tidbit relating the Ford Mustang with aviation was spawned with the sale of the first pony car in mid-1964. The first Ford Mustang ever produced (a white convertible eventually reacquired and made a permanent resident of the Henry Ford Museum) was sold to a Canadian airline pilot Stanley Tucker.

At the Oshkosh, Wisconsin air show in 2008 held by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Ford Motor Company connected again with the intrepid pilots of the sky. Producing unique examples of their popular performance car in support of youth-oriented aviation foundation Young Eagles, the Mustang AV8R (exploring design cues of the F-22 Raptor fighter aircraft) was the first vehicle committed to a special auction at the airplane gathering. After the Ford Mustang AV8R raised $500,000 for the cause, the sale of a special pony car has become a sample for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh. For the upcoming show, the flight education group Young Eagles is anticipating potential buyers to aim high with their bidding paddles for a special one-off 2012 Ford Mustang GT coupe styled on the Blue Angels identity.

As the Blue Angels celebrates a centennial for naval aviation in the United States, the Blue Oval brand allowed the theme to inspire this year’s Ford Mustang GT auction car. Starting with a 412-horsepower, 2012 Ford Mustang GT as a base vehicle, modifications for the Oshkosh-only pony car revolved around replicating the Blue Angels spirit of excitement. Applied with a chrome blue paint formulated by Creation n’ Chrome, the Blue Angels edition 2012 Ford Mustang GT exterior appearance is accompanied with “screaming yellow” striping and wording. Located on the rear corner, a customized rear spoiler flatters the Blue Angels F-18 Hornet by resembling the jet’s tail. Secured within Falken tires, 20-inch HRE Performance Wheels supplies the aftermarket alloys. Behind the specialty alloy wheels, Brembo brakes are included on the 2012 Ford Mustang Blue Angels edition vehicle along with a performance exhaust and handling pack.

Dedicating the 2012 vehicle to the United States military air demonstration team, the Blue Angels crest is worn along surfaces of the outside and inside. On the exterior, one Blue Angel emblem is located on each side panels ahead of the coupe’s doors. A specially designed gas cap also contains the identifiable symbol on this 2012 Ford Mustang. Blue Angels badges on the inside are imprinted on the Recaro racing seats.

Incorporating the screaming yellow striping inside of the black interior, the Recaro racing seats is far from the only touch Ford gave the Blue Angels Mustang GT. Illuminated door sills cast a blue light through the entrance and exit. Deleting the rear seat, the now two-seat cabin has a yellow painted cross brace supplying improved overall handling stiffness. Unique instrument and navigation screen graphics are also present to the driver as well as the co-pilot inside this 2012 Ford Mustang GT.

A car prepared to be auctioned off July 28th, the 2012 Ford Mustang GT Blue Angels one-off model is set to be a flying fast street machine ready to launch the flight experience for a host of young aviation enthusiasts.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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It has been culturally embedded in American motoring that a muscle car needs to be powered by a beefy V-8 engine. Through the 1960s, the words of no replacement for displacement were truer than ever as brawny eight cylinder engines were trusted for between 300 to 500 horsepower. While massive, high-performing powerplants gave birth to legends such as the Pontiac GTO, Chevrolet Chevelle SS and Ford Shelby GT500, less celebrated bunch of cars that served as a base model. Either inline-six or V-6 engines were found as economy car options known as sacrifices to high adrenaline excitement on the roads. At the end of the last decade, we are beginning to notice automakers are actively campaigning the V-6 engine can supply performance plateaus once deemed unreachable.

In 2011, all three vehicles of the recent pony car revival have six-cylinder engines producing over 300 horsepower. Base model V-6 powerplants, the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger and Ford Mustang maintains super-powered V-8 engines dwarfing the entry-level performance. Despite the obvious longing many performance enthusiasts have to the highest horsepower and acceleration times, fuel prices have led to the almost identical V-6 models being seen as more attractive. In the case of the 2012 Ford Mustang, a new appearance and performance package can cause definite excitement. It could even be said the upcoming V-6 engined Mustangs will give into “Mayhem“.

Replacing the V6 Performance Package, Ford Motor Company’s new Mayhem Mustang Package increases the profile of the entry-level powerplant. In order to generate the performance package’s new name, Ford appealed to the crowds of Facebook to pitch a designation for the option. Through 3,000 unique submissions and 1.4 million votes enticed by a three-year lease of the Ford Mustang V-6, Mayhem Mustang was chosen as the package’s new name.

Borrowing from the parts bin of the Mustang GT as well as the Shelby GT500 model, the Mayhem Mustang package suspension system is greatly enhanced for better handling and a sport-like ride. Stabilizers, struts and shocks from the GT support the Mustang V-6 with heavier duty performance capabilities. From the Ford Shelby GT500, a rear lower control arm is added through the Mayhem Mustang Package. Beyond the mechanical alterations to the suspension, handling also benefits from a modified electronic stability control system with a sport mode.

Though there is no horsepower gain to the 3.7 liter V-6 engine, the Mayhem Mustang Package does involve a performance augmentation to improve the acceleration from the 2012 Ford Mustang’s 305 horsepower. Featuring the 3.31 rear axle differential gear, the Mustang V-6 models equipped with the Mayhem Mustang Package is likely to launch from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the mid-5 second range.

Laying down the rubber from Pirelli performance tires, the Mayhem Mustang equipment group for the 2012 Ford Mustang spins on specifically matched 19-inch wheels. When the need for stopping occurs with the 2012 Mustang, beefier brake calipers hold Performance Friction brake pads.

An ideal combination of equipment for a V-6 powered 2012 Ford Mustang; the Mayhem Mustang Package gives a chance to show off impressive aggression.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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Against the grain of a multitude of noted European tuners, GeigerCars.de actively supplies the continent with so-called “American iron“ since 1979. While European customers can purchase in their purest glory, GeigerCars.de also avails buyers the benefit of customization options extending well beyond factory preparations. Importing Cadillac, Chevrolet as well as even Jeep vehicles, unique Geiger creations have included the Hummer GT and the Corvette ZR-1 based Geiger GTS. GeigerCars.de work has also exercised their European-style tuning craft on the very American Ford Mustang. Instead of attempting to match wits with the work of Shelby, German-based GeigerCars.de has elected to gain the lead over a Shelby-modded Mustang. Termed the GT640 Golden Snake, GeigerCars.de has taken a newly minted 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 into a reimagined modern hot rod.

Upping performance from Ford’s aluminum, supercharged 5.4-liter V-8, a 2.3 liter compressor, Geiger brand stainless steel sport exhaust system and different engine mapping software allows the Shelby GT640 Golden Snake to make a more venomous bite. Measuring 640 ps (equivalent of 631 horsepower), the performance advantage over the 2011 Shelby GT500 is very noticeable with the GeigerCars.de modification. Storming from 0 to 62 miles per hour in only 3.7 seconds, GeigersCars.de GT640 Golden Snake is half a second faster than the Ford-authorized model. Top speed for the Ford Shelby GT640 Golden Snake approaches 183 miles per hour.

Altering the alphanumeric designation to reflect its power output, the GT640 Golden Snake is amusing the most relevant sequencing used on the Mustang. Originally when Carroll Shelby named the GT350, the ’350’ number was spawned due to an estimation of the distance in feet between Shelby’s home and workshop. In the use of the GT500 name, the high-performance Mustang received the designation simply because it sounded fast.

Knowing the GT640 name harps on the vehicle‘s performance, the Golden Snake name for the GeigerCars.de creation captures the aesthetic image for the tuner-styled pony car. Covering their Shelby with a dead gold paint scheme, the GT640 Golden Snake loud exterior compliments the enhanced horsepower. Contrasting the dead gold paint, the darkened appearance of carbon fiber is worn under the engine. The lightweight carbon fiber hood on the GeigerCars.de Shelby GT640 Golden Snake features sizable air scoops contributing to the breathing of the more excited supercharged eight-cylinder engine. Matt black 20-inch wheels specifically designed by Geiger borders the rims and the Michelin Pilot sport tires. Altogether, the Shelby GT640 Golden Snake rides on an H&R developed adjustable sport suspension system.

Creating their own version of the Shelby vehicle, the modified Mustang does not attempt to completely obscure the Shelby GT500 factory presentation. The Ford Shelby GT640 Golden Snake retains the chrome cobra badges and an altered version of the side stripes.

Fans of the original pony car has been treated to a never-ending stream of aftermarket tuned Mustang. The GeigerCars.de Shelby GT640 Golden Snake can be purchased for 89,000 Euros (equal to $126,588 US). The price of the GT640 Golden Snake also includes a high quality stereo and an EU navigation system.

Information and photo source: GeigerCars.de

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Being Valentine’s day, some of us seek to honour those true loves in our lives. Those lucky enough to find their special peer to share this time are given a great gift in humanity.

While automobiles are not human, there are many who associate those same loving emotions to sheetmetal and wheels sensing that an automobile is in essence a living being. Breathing air, requiring food to function and benefiting from proper care, an automobile is believed to return emotions. Spotlighting a few examples, let us examine the rich personality in the 2011 auto industry.

Chevrolet Camaro

Like that old high school crush you have met at a reunion, the Chevrolet Camaro presence was reasserted in 2009 bringing back old memories while wearing modern skin. Seven years away from the showroom sees the newest Camaro launch clearly invigorated. Emotions were strong enough for 129,405 units to be produced in 2010 meeting up with the hearts of eager owners. Showing appreciation to V-6 buyers, the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro performance is bumped up to 312-horsepower. The Camero SS still reigns as a more enchanting yet obtainable experience making drivers fall in love with V-8 power. Including a convertible Camaro and a newly-announced 550-horsepower ZL1 model, look for 2011 and 2012 roads to be livened by the classic, American beauty.

Ford Mustang

Just mentioning the Chevrolet Camaro’s celebrated return, some automotive lovers are still hurting by the jilted feeling the General Motors pony car’s disappearance brought. Looking for a tried and true pony car that his attracted car fans through 47 continuous years, the Ford Mustang remains a fixture of American performance and the very best of the Blue Oval brand. Even when Ford tried to identify themselves with the GT supercar, very pure Mustang fans refused to be tempted by the more untouchable mid-engined car.

Into 2011, the Ford Mustang continues to serve up a broad taste of affectionate models. Starting with a respectable 305 horsepower V-6, the convertible and 5.0 liter V-8 producing up to 412 horsepower provides more alluring eye-candy. Of course, those who are willing to handle a ride like no other Ford Mustang, the Shelby GT500 can be a fun-loving ride a select few can handle.

Ferrari 458 Italia

Whenever Ferrari sports car engineering and Pininfarina styling meet, there is definitely an intensive merging of infectious romance. Bearing many love children since their first collaboration in , the latest offspring between the Italian industrial interests have created the Ferrari 458 Italia. A two-seat supercar possessing under 3.5 second 0 to 60 mile per hour acceleration and a top speed of 202 MPH, a driver behind the wheel of a motioning Ferrari 458 Italia is guaranteed to forget any human passenger.

Thanks to published reports on adhesive failure triggering engine fires, the Ferrari 458 Italia’s reputation as a hot supercar in those incidents is difficult to ignore. Though like only a very special love, the desire to change for the better emerged through summer of 2010 through a fix by Ferrari engineers.

Ford Fiesta

A pint-sized B-Segment vehicle in a land where one would be ruled a misfit, the entrance of the Ford Fiesta has allowed some of us to show remarkable foresight in seeking a mechanical companion. On the United States market for only a short amount of time, the lovely compact vehicle available in smart-looking five-door hatchback and a four-door sedan. Modest in demands but bringing a lot to a relationship as either standard features or reasonably-priced options makes the Ford Fiesta a real charmer.

For a little spice to the relationship, Ford Accessories allows the individual look to a Fiesta shaping beauty in countless combinations.

Toyota Prius

Invoking emotions positive and negative, the Toyota Prius is certainly the most passionate vehicles in the Japanese-based auto company’s lineup. Associated as an electrifying personality, the hybrid powertrain is maintained by this very smart compact car maximizing fuel economy for a longer time together between gas stations. At the 2011 North American Auto Show in Detroit, this gasoline/electric hybrid has shown it still has a lot more love to give. Showing off the already announced, the showcase introduced a Toyota Prius v and a Prius c adjusting to a new group of admirers in the upcoming model years.

Is the before-mentioned the only vehicle worthy of a special connection or love? Of course not. Admitting in the automobiles genre as a less decisive person, I can’t even suggest the one true motoring love of my life. Each one of the vehicles represented an individual attribute sporting beauty, grace, bravery, intelligence and even selflessness to one who expresses compassion for the mechanical being.

Combining passion and playful bashfulness, the Fiat 500 might be the objection of your affection. Maybe a choice crossover or full utility vehicle could be that perfect travel companion bringing as much of the world with you or even trot an intimate escape path.

The consideration for the vehicle of your life, unlike a human relationship, can be a much simpler form of enchantment able to take many shapes and sizes.

Information source: Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Toyota

Photo Source: Chris Nagy, General Motors, Hamann, Toyota

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The New Year has begun and its the time for resolutions, reflecting and – in the automotive world – year-end sales tallies. After a horrific 2009, the numbers for 2010 are looking a whole lot more promising, particularly for the American manufacturers.

While a lot of attention has been given to Ford and its reclamation of the second-best selling manufacturer title from Toyota, within the sales figures is news that the Camaro has outsold the Mustang.

Historically, the Mustang has outsold the Camaro right from the beginning. The Mustang has a wide enthusiast base and Ford has catered to it well, particularly since 2005.

The new Camaro went on sale a few months into 2009, with a lot of pent up demand fueling sales. Even so, its late start gave the Mustang the edge for the year. This year, with initial demand for the Camaro dissipating, it seemed likely the Mustang would maintain its lead. The Ford brand has continued momentum in the marketplace and the company offered impressive updates to the 2011 Mustang’s engine lineup.

Continued dominance didn’t prove to be the case however, as the Camaro has overtaken the Mustang for the first time since 1985.

The Camaro sold 81,371 units for 2010, up 7,655 units over the Mustang’s 73,716 tally. It isn’t as the Mustang is a big loser though. Both figures are growing, up by healthy percentages over 2009′s figures. The increases stand at 31.9 percent and 10.6 percent for the Camaro and Mustang, respectively.

It’ll be interesting to see if the Camaro continues its momentum in 2011. The Camaro looks to have the edge again, with a new convertible variant debuting to provide a boost in sales. The Mustang’s figures include its convertible variant.

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Wrapping up the look back at Ford Motor Company’s departed Mercury division, the last car to earn profiling is a vehicle that once represented performance and personal luxury in perfect harmony.

Today, the use of the word Cougar (other than referring to a member of the cat family) implies the woman dating a man considerably her junior. However, in the context of the now-retired Mercury division, Cougar symbolizes 33 years of noteworthy American automobile history. Through the soul of Mercury Cougar, this single product is most likely to keep the brand hard-wired in the minds of car lovers.

The story of the Cougar began in the Ford Motor Company reveling in the runaway success of the Ford Mustang. The pony car allure had Mercury begging for their own coupe roughly two years after the Mustang’s debut. For the conception of the Mercury example, the Cougar was never destined to draw the youthful crowds of the Mustang. Debuting 3 inches longer in wheelbase and 6.7 inches in total length, the Mercury Cougar’s 1967 model year introduction came as a luxury sports car.

Heavier than the Ford Mustang, the 1967 Cougar premiered with some rather alluring features starting with the hidden headlamps. Like the 1949-1951 Mercurys, buyers of the Mercury Cougar were never required to settle for a 6-cylinder powerplant. Promoted with a 289 cubic-inch V-8 engine generating 200 horsepower in base trim, 390 cubic-inch V-8 was also available. Becoming Motor Trend magazine’s Car of the Year in 1967, Mercury sold over 150,000 units of the cougar in its first year as the cat immediately found its stride in the pony car era. Catered for a more premium vehicle market, the Cougar brought many of its convenience features courtesy of channeled vacuum pressure from the engine including the headlamp door panels. A more expensive XR-7 model (a code which would be long used on the Mercury Cougar) also lent high-class items such as a leather interior to the Cougar two-door coupe. The next year, XR-7s accounted for 1 of every 5 Mercury Cougars sold indicating that maybe the market accepts this pony car for luxury rather than performance. In 1969, a big counterstrike was waged by Mercury hoping to ‘eliminate’ that notion.

Mercury’s take on the Ford Mustang Mach 1, the a high-performance Cougar once created through the inspiration from the ‘Eliminator’ NHRA Funny Car driven by “Dyno” Don Nicholson. Given some sassy styling touches such as a ram air hood scoop and rear spoiler, the Mercury Cougar Eliminator featured a best of Ford’s muscle car stock of engines. The Boss 302 engine, the smallest and in fact rarer powerplant inside the Mercury Cougar Eliminator was accompanied by a 351 and 390 cubic inch V-8 before setting up to the 335 horsepower 428 Cobra Jet. Built in 1969 and 1970, two Cougar Eliminators were even fitted with the Boss 429 engine existing as the most rare of 4,517 examples of the Mercury muscle car. Since the Cougar Eliminator’s demise, attention to high-performance never completely returned to Mercury (one exception being for the Marauder).

Abandoning the similar underpinnings of the Ford Mustang in 1974, the Cougar averted the planned downsizing of the pony car but was reunited on Ford’s Fox chassis 6 years later. However, by this time, the Cougar identity had been integrated more closely to the Ford Thunderbird. Both the Cougar and Thunderbird would remain joined until 1997.

Long-associated as a two-door coupe, 1969 to 1973 model year Mercury Cougars were able to assume the form of a convertible. However, as Mercury tipped into the late 1970s, the Ford division chose to redefine the Cougar through greater diversity. Between 1977 to 1982, the Cougar nameplate was worn on a four-door sedan as well as a station wagon as Mercury was intent on using their popular name . Because of the Mercury Cougar being made available in three different body configurations, sales of the model name reached a all-time high. Peaking in 1978 with over 213,000 vehicles sold, the net gain for expanding the Cougar name would be short-lived and a decision came to revert back to a two-door coupe.

The Mercury Cougar was associated with production-derived auto racing through much of its life span. In one of two peak eras for seeing the Cougar name in motorsports, late 1960s saw professional drag racing and the Trans-Am series. The second time period occurred in the 1980s through NASCAR Cup circuit action. Neil Bonnett won Mercury’s final NASCAR Cup series event in 1980 driving a #21 Wood Brothers Cougar to victory at Talladega. After NASCAR, the Cougar made a brief return to the road courses for IMSA competition thanks to the resources of Roush Racing.

As Ford Motor Company dropped the Ford Thunderbird and Mercury Cougar personal luxury cars in 1997, an era ended as a new V-8 powered Cougar would never again roam out of a Lincoln-Mercury dealership. However, to the pleasure of those wanting the Mercury Cougar to continue a modern existence, the brand was able to briefly resurrect the model as a compact sport coupe. Other than the name and two doors, this compact car built between 1999-2002 left little in common with the previous Mercury Cougars. Production wrapped with roughly 150,000 units to complete what was a less successful attempt of Mercury to lure the sport compact enthusiast market. Probably unknown at the time, the discontinuation of the Mercury Cougar’s second coming signified the division would be unable to attract a large enough younger customer base to sustain the its future.

While the latest Mercury Cougars can be snatched up between $2,000 to $4,000 on the resale car market, some of the more classical examples of the two-door have drawn some dedicated attention. With many well-maintained conventional pony car Cougars still a steal at under $20,000, a 1970 Mercury Cougar Eliminator equipped with a Cobra Jet 428 engine fetched $128,700 at the 2007 Scottsdale Barrett Jackson auction.

As the final 2010 Mercury clears off the Lincoln-Mercury dealership property, remembering the past successes of the now-idled auto brand by profiling some noted marques is only a snapshot to the devotion and fanfare which continues to reign.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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Making a shining appearance in the car chase scene for the 1971 James Bond movie Diamonds are Forever, the Ford Mustang has since become an adored fixture in Las Vegas at the SEMA Show. For 2010, the Ford Motor Company’s monumental pony car will once again be a specticle.

Showing off 9 Mustangs customized to distinctive tastes, attendees at the 2010 SEMA Show is certain to find at least one design concept able to excite their personalities.

2011 Ford Mustang GT by Ford Vehicle Personalization

Built through one-stop shopping from the Ford Custom Accessories catalog, the Ford Vehicle Personalization model of the 2011 Ford Mustang GT “..a perfect fit for Mustang” by Mark Conforzi, chief designer of the division. Rear window louvers, a billet front grille and a rear pedestal spoiler are notable exterior touches. Covered with a custom tri-coat presented by paint company Shermin-Williams, secondary colouring of black, a fluorescent appearing red, and concept liquid silver accents are worn by this special Mustang GT.

2011 Ford Mustang by Team Baurtwell

Designed for rapper Snoop Dogg, Team Baurtwell partners with the popular skills of Funkmaster Flex in creating this lowered 2011 Mustang coupe. Team Baurtwell custom smoked taillights and 3dCarbon body modifications tops a tailored yet tasteful presentation. Large three-piece NC Forged billet wheels completes the look of Snopp Dogg’s Mustang given an even more dramatic effect by Steeda who manufactured suspension add-ons including a lowering kit, springs and sway bars.

2011 Ford Mustang by MRT

Projecting “..a tough street warrior theme..” according to Ford, the MRT (Mustang Racing Technologies) interpretation of the 2011 Mustang GT utilizes their company’s newest pony car parts and accessories. Wearing MRT’s red and black corporate colours, carbon components inside as well as outside is backed up by some race-like performance modifications. Chassis and handling upgrades including Baer braking plus a MRT stainless steel exhaust all come together for this modified Mustang.

2011 Ford Mustang by Creation n’ Chrome

A continuation on Ford’s desire to bring aware to breast cancer, Creation n’ Chrome combined with the American Cancer Society for this pretty in pink Mustang GT convertible. Sporting a 3dCarbon styling kit and HRE performance wheels on the outside, a Vortech supercharger provides a roaring spirit under the pink Mustang accented with white striping. This Mustang follows the 2008 and 2009 limited edition Susan G. Komen Foundation Warrior in Pink cars.

2011 Ford Mustang by Muscle Mustangs and Fast Fords

Designed with the input of a leading periodical profiling the original pony car, this creation addresses the Mustang’s raw performance capabilities. The 5 liter V-8 engine is kicked up a notch by the extreme power boost of a Ford Racing Performance Parts supercharger and a Kooks Custom Header-supplied exhaust system. Channeling several 2011 Ford Mustang outfitters, Roush provides the front fascia, Cervini’s Auto Designs supplies the hood and American Muscle-sourced brakes, seats as well as suspension completes this street rod-themed pony car.

2011 Ford Mustang by Mobsteel

Using a V-6 engined as a basis, the Mobsteel version of Ford’s pony car explores more of a tuner theme than the other 2010 SEMA Show Mustang concepts. Presented with an Air Runner suspension system, a low-profile look is enhanced by Pirelli tires surrounding Savini Forged wheels. A remote mounted STS turbocharger system (located within the rear of the Ford Mustang) as well as a cat-back exhaust courtesy of Magnflow allows the V-6 engine to open up. Since STS advertises a 2005-2009 application Mustang turbocharger producing 530 horsepower, this Mobsteel Ford Mustang is guaranteed to gallop.

2011 Ford Mustang by Raceskinz

A producer of carbon fiber appearance pieces, Raceskinz’s treatment to the 2011 Ford Mustang GT is fitted for show and go. For Show, unique exterior black and red striping draped over the body heavily advanced by Raceskinz. Special bucket seats are now mounted inside of a two-seater interior thanks to the removal of the Mustang’s rear passenger seat.

For go, the Raceskinz Mustang scoured aftermarket performance parts companies for top-end components. A ProCharger intercooled supercharger, Magnaflow cat-back exhaust system and Baer brakes are all found alongside Raceskinz carbon fiber parts.

2011 Ford Mustang by Street Scene Equipment

The 2nd of two Mustang convertibles being featured in custom trim at the 2010 SEMA Show, the Street Scene Equipment design is said to combine “..style, performance and luxury all in one package” according to Ford. Highlighted by Street Scene’s body add-ons including chin spoiler, main grille and rear wing, MINT 20 inch wheels inside Yokahama tires extensively provides aggression for this drop-top. The cabin Katzkin leather and the Polk audio sound system upgrades wraps up the complete package this concept looks to achieve.

2011 Ford Mustang by Tjin Edition

Beyond the Unique Fabrication wing, Air Lift fully digital air suspension kit and the Eibach suspension pieces, the main initiate of the Tjin Edition Ford Mustang concept is mainly focused on lighting. At the front, LED headlights and fog lights presents a bright as well as efficient path for this custom-painted Dupont vehicle. Night time accent of StreetGlow lighting is also found on the Ford Mustang Tjin Edition. When night turns to day, a Webasto sunroof not only allows the interior to be illuminated but refreshes the inside of this custom Mustang.

Images and photo sources: Ford Motor Company

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In a quiet Detroit suburb of Ferndale, Michigan, one gathering of historic wheels is assembled on the 21st of August. Called the Woodward Dream Cruise, the event’s surrounding the cruise has drawn 40,000 classic and collectible cars in recent years as well as the support of the so-called Detroit 3 automakers. Though rain fell throughout the 2010 edition of the Woodward Dream Cruise, the shower did nothing to wash away the passion and some automobile-loving attendees. While the actual cruise occurs on the Saturday, the entire weekend is devoted to creating colourful scenery.

Consisting of a 16 mile cruise down Woodward Drive, reflecting back on a day when cars could freely run the streets of America without the hateful sneers of environmentalist or under the government-appointed microscope. Classic, restored and street rods roared down the roadways representing full individuals and car clubs.

Like previous Woodward Dream Cruises, the major automakers set up extensive displays in close proximity to their past creations. With Ford, GM and Chrysler optimistic of a continuing existence in the modern automotive landscape, the 2010 show was perhaps an ideal outdoor event to showcase their refreshed attitude to building cars. Making its first openly public appearance, Ford brought the 2012 Mustang Boss 302 and the Boss 302 Laguna Seca to a special Mustang Alley display on West 9 Mile Road. As part of the Ferndale Classic & Cruis’n Legends Vehicle Show, Ford Motor Company’s addition to the Dream Cruise party included new products like the Raptor SVT, a Ford Shelby GT500 as well as the Ford Fiesta to stand alongside some beloved Fords of yesteryear.

Further North up Woodward Drive, General Motors showed off the Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1, a GM Powertrain Engine display and another public showing of the Chevrolet Volt. Both the GM and Ford supported areas featured classic cars brought by their employees. For the Ford display, that included as many as 10 first generation Boss Mustangs.

Finally there was the Chrysler display featuring a cornucopia of Mopar muscle. Past representatives of Chrysler cars featured a 1970 Plymouth Cuda, a 1968 Dodge Coronet Convertible and a more contemporary Dodge Viper GTS from the 1998 model year. Current offerings such as the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee along with 4 different variations of the Dodge Challenger were present including a Dodge Targa Challenger. A longtime supporter of the event, Chrysler’s previous enthusiasm saw the creation of a special edition PT Cruiser called simply the Dream Cruiser. This year’s show had the Fiat 500 join the Chrysler display of cars consisting of a European spec model featured alongside a 1970 Fiat 500 version.

Unlike the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance set on the previous weekend on the other half of the United States, the show is free event to the public as well as to the classic car entrants. Also unlike the Pebble Beach show where the wine and champagne flowed into the glasses of rather adult guests, the Woodward Dream Cruise is a fully-devoted event for families. Besides providing eye candy of stylish sheetmetal, there were plenty of activities to entertain including a photo trailer at the GM display where you could have a picture with a favourite Team Chevy driver thanks to the use of a green screen. Children at heart are also treated to some delights beyond the car show scene. Many part vendors (including factory performance parts from the 3 automakers) and even a car auction area might provide opportunities for those not already involved in the event to be contributors in 2011.

Mother Nature delivered a cruel blow with the 15th year of the Woodward Dream Cruise, a little water was not enough to hold back custom 1930s Fords, a commandingly long Chrysler Imperial, the grouping of Cobra sports cars or an antique fire truck. With at least 30,000 cars involved in this year’s Woodward Dream Cruise, the automotive festivity concluded as another recent tribute to the automobile as past and present form into a rich motoring future.

Information Source: Chrysler, Ford, General Motors and Woodward Dream Cruise inc.

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Built as Ford’s response to losing the prestigious SCCA Trans Am manufacturer championship to their pony car rival the Chevrolet Camaro, the Boss 302 edition of the Ford Mustang was given form in 1969 as both a premium straight-liner and an aggressive turn-hugger. Thanks to Trans Am series homologation rules, Ford was required to produce road-going variants for customers. A fruit of production-based racing specifications, the original Mustang Boss 302 is one of the blue oval brand’s most beloved contribution to the muscle car era (perhaps second only to the Boss 429). Musing the Mustang faithful since advertising the return of the 5.0 liter engine size (302 cubic inches), Ford Motor Company has given new life to the Boss name for a limited edition issue in 2012.

On first glance at the 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302, Ford again projects the heritage of their beloved pony car through modern sheetmetal. Signifying the 2012 Boss 302′s adhering to the pride of the original vehicle, the iconic Boss 302 C-stripes are tattooed along the side panels. Wearing one of five classically-inspired but still provocative exterior primarily colours, the 2012 Mustang Boss 302s C-stripes, roof and hood sections will stand out in either black or white. Having been a model for late 1960s aerodynamics, the Boss 302 appears in 2012 a graduate student of cutting edge air manipulation techniques. The lower air dam now features a large air splitter while the rear end treatment is topped with modest but functional rear spoiler and a rear diffuser.

A revised Mustang suspension system featuring high-rate coil springs and a wider stabilizer bar faithfully provides the performance-oriented ride the 1969-1970 Boss 302 was known for creating. The 2012 Boss 302′s new suspension assembly lowers the car incrementally compared to a 2011 Mustang GT with 11 mm on the front and 1 mm in the rear. Minor-sounding adjustments, this slightly altered ride height will serve the Mustang Boss 302 well for handling in corners or traveling along a high-speed stretch. The enhanced Boss 302 ride is also supplemented with a ride type selector. Via a driver-controllable knob, three settings allows handling to be Comfort, Normal or Sport quality. Backed by electronic stability control and traction control, the 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 strides with confidence.

When coming to a stop, high-performance brake lines are engineered to provide a more instant response in slowing down the Mustang’s four wheels. Brembo 4-piston brake calipers firmly grabs the 14 inch disc brake rotors with grace. Compared to the GT version, the 2012 Mustang Boss 302 is slated to stop about 3 feet sooner with the improved brake hardware. Beyond this braking system, the full extent of the stop and go workout is credited to the Mustang Boss 302′s Pirelli PZero summer tires. Surrounding 19 inch black alloy wheels, the wheel and tire combination fosters control good effort to achieve over 1 g of lateral acceleration.

Thankfully not simply a dress-up package, under the 2012 Mustang Boss 302′s hood is 440 horsepower secured within a 5.0 liter V-8 sporting a retro-styled plenum The most powerful Ford Mustang available without the intervention of Carrol Shelby or supercharging, the Boss 302 engine’s 28 horsepower increase over the 2011 Mustang GT is accredited to an ultra-high capacity intake manifold design and a reshaped camshaft. Special final gearing and a limited-slip differential assures the 440 horses are providing the best gallop.

Becoming the boss of the Boss, the driver rides within a specifically-catered interior design. Recaro racing seats combine cloth and suede-like materials comforting driver as well as the front passenger as the Mustang Boss 302 is put through its paces. Unique to other Ford Mustangs, the dashboard surroundings are trimmed with a dark metallic finish while the driver will have an equally distinctive gauge cluster to admire. Driver and passengers ears will ring with an unparallel sound of the 5.0 liter V-8 engine. Compared to the GT model Mustang, 11 pounds of sound-deadening material had been removed for weight-savings and for simply enhancing the driving experience. As a Muscle Car era touch, the 2012 Mustang Boss 302 shifter knob resembles the black pool-cue ball.

As an added bonus to the Boss Mustang’s reincarnation, a select number of buyers will have an opportunity to buy an harder core driving sensation with the Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca edition. The name Laguna Seca was given for the race track where an original SCCA Trans-Am competition Mustang Boss 302 won on in 1970 in a significant opening race. The Ford Mustang Boss 302, driven by Parnelli Jones at the Laguna Seca round, won for what would be a precursor in retaking the league’s manufacturer championship back from Chevrolet. The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca will offer increased chassis stiffness and extreme aerodynamics for optimized race-like handling. This Laguna Seca’s devotion setting up the race car experience even includes omitting the extra weight of the Mustang’s rear seat.

Returning to the streets through the next model year, its worth noting the Boss 302 name has been rejoicing in a resurrection in auto racing competition. Since the beginning of the 2010 Grand Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge season, the Ford Mustang Boss 302R is a race-fitted 5.0 liter V-8 ringer within the production-based sports car series. Winding through its first season of competition, Ford Motor Company has credited the Boss 302R race cars in the development of the upcoming production Boss Mustang. Director of Ford Racing Jamie Allison commented “The tradition and the spirit of Boss, a car born for the track, remain today and you can bet more than a few Ford Racing employees will have a Boss 302 in the garage soon.”

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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The 2011 Mustang GT is auto enthusiast darling of the year thus far. Browse any car magazine, blog, or forum and you’ll no doubt run into car geeks gushing about the car’s astounding performance for the money. Traditionally, pony cars like the Mustang have appealed to the mulleted, Bud Light, “no replacement for displacement” crowd that equates driving a Japanese performance car with jihadist activity. Thanks to Ford Racing’s work with Vaughn Gittin Jr. in Formula Drift the past few years, the Mustang’s popularity has spread out to the 240sx/AE86/Skyline crowd. For some of those dudes, though, the Mustang isn’t loud enough – the wheels aren’t big enough, there aren’t enough spoilers, and there aren’t any graphics on the car at all. Ford Racing and Gittin Jr. put together a nifty little dealer installed performance and appearance package just for those guys in their flat-billed baseball caps.

“Vaughn’s goal was to introduce an exciting new package to the Mustang world that resonates with both the younger audience and with traditional muscle car enthusiasts as well,” Mickey Matus, Ford Performance Group marketing manager said.

The Mustang RTR dealer package takes the 2011 Mustang GT and turns it into an even larger cop magnet. On the appearance end of the spectrum the RTR receives a very aggressive front lip spoiler with a built in splitter, larger side skirts, a rear diffuser, a new aluminum rear spoiler, RTR badges, RTR “contrast stripes,” and, of course, RTR floor mats. Performance wise the RTR receives an ECU retune, a K&N air filter, Ford Racing mufflers, Ford Racing shocks and 1.5’’ lowering springs, an upgraded rear sway bar, drilled and slotted brake rotors, and a set of new 19×9.5-inch wheels shod in Falken FK-452 tires.

Currently the RTR package is only available on GT’s, but Ford says the package will be available on the V6 Mustang later this year.

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With countless “fly ridez” rollin’ round on phat 22′s, it was only a matter of time before carmakers started making official versions of these pimped-out wheels. Did I say all that right? Ford isn’t the first, but the 2011 Mustang DUB Edition is sure to make an impression among the youngsters and fly homies.

Maybe I’m being a bit harsh, this thing is actually pretty nice. Based on the newly testosterone-infused 305 hp 2011 Ford Mustang V6, the DUB Edition features some nice 20-inch TIS wheels wrapped in Pirelli tires, DUB logos on the front headrests and front grill, and a special DUB stripe package. Ford and DUB magazine also teamed up with Roush to add a front fascia and splitter, Roush lowering springs, and Roush quarter window louvers and windshield banner.

The 2011 Mustang DUB Edition will be offered in coupe, convertible, or glass-roof styles, with your choice of black, blue, red, or silver paint on a black interior. Choose from a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The car will be available later this fall and price hasn’t yet been announced.

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