As a stand-up person, you likely own a vehicle it fits your needs. If commuting to work, you will possess a reliable fuel-efficient car. If you have a family to move, you may opt for a minivan or a seven-passenger sport utility vehicle. For a company, a business car lease provides the transportation required for meeting people and honouring your agreements. All and fine for fulfilling your motoring needs, our typical vehicles may fall short in providing the unbridled excitement defining true motoring. What if we could drive a late model Porsche for a weekend? For select United States markets in the states of California, Florida and Nevada, rental car company Hertz Corporation has added some of the finest current model vehicles built by the German sports car brand.

Part of Hertz’s vehicle line, the Porsche 911, Porsche Boxster and the Cayenne crossover vehicle can be selected for a Hertz rental. The Porsche vehicles offered through Hertz is said to retail between $50,000-$85,000 a piece. All three Porsche models will be equipped with the more fuel efficient six-cylinder powerplants. These performance vehicles additions from Porsche join the four-door Panamera that Hertz had previously furnished to customers. Starting at cost of $250 per day on weekends, Hertz’s Porsche fleet provides performance fans with some serious road-going excitement.

A rental car agency in its 95th year of operations, Hertz Corporation has a history of providing more than basic econobox vehicles. In addition to the newly expanded line of Porsche vehicles, you can tempt your motoring appetite to other premium vehicles. Depending on state and rental office locations, you can even recent an Audi R8 or a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG through Hertz. In 2006, Hertz and Ford Motor Company entered into a deal where special Shelby Mustangs could be rented. Consisting of a coupe and later a convertible variant, the Shelby GT-H models were constructed for the Hertz Fun Collection featuring unique graphics and the Ford Racing Handling Pack. This recent Ford program was a continuation of a Hertz’s “Rent-a-Racer” GT-500-H vehicles available in 1966. 500 examples of both the Ford Shelby GT-H coupe and convertible were distributed for rent through Hertz. In 2008, Hertz also rented out Chevrolet Corvettes branded as ZHZ painted yellow with a black stripe.

The Porsche 911, Boxster, Cayenne and Panamera are now available through participating Hertz outlets.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company, Hertz Corporation, Porsche Cars North America

With the Chevrolet Corvette celebrating its 60th year of production this year, bowtie fans are all revved-up by the seventh generation of the long-running sports car. In 2014, loyalists to the blue oval will have the opportunity to celebrate their own milestone as the Ford Mustang reaches 50 years in production. The car that moved a sizable baby boomer crowd, the Mustang’s presence with high-output V8 engines and trendy convertibles has won over several generations afterwards.

A brand supported by almost a half century of history, first generation model of the Ford Mustang has been the foundation that has continuously built the dynasty. GT, Shelby, California Special, Mach 1 and Boss 302 are some of the names attaching itself to the Ford Mustang from 1964 to 1973. When launching the Mustang, Indy 500 pace car duty, racing and movie appearances have been part of establishing Ford’s pony car as a cultural icon.

More than a year ahead of the 50th birthday of the Ford Mustang, let us look at a few of the defining cars to the brand:

Ford Mustang in Goldfinger

Providing many of the vehicles for the 1964 James Bond movie Goldfinger, Ford Motor Company jumped at the opportunity to place their brand-new Ford Mustang on-screen. While the Aston Martin DB5 attracted the biggest fanfare from the iconic ‘007’ movie, the white Ford Mustang convertible driven by character Tilly Masterson (portrayed by actress Tania Mallet) was also a noticeable sight. Combined with the short-lived Bond girl who was seeking revenge against villain Goldfinger, the Ford Mustang convertible offered additional allure to the big screen. Being cemented as a Bond car apparently did nothing to hurt the Ford Mustang’s entrance into the marketplace.

Not seen in the James Bond movie, Ford had also prepared a Mustang fastback painted in gold metal flake paint. A one-off factory build, the gold 1965 Ford Mustang fastback purpose was supposed to have a part in the film but the vehicle was not ready in time. This Goldfinger Ford Mustang fastback was sold for $49,680 at the 2000 Barrett Jackson Classic Car Auction.

Eleanor in Gone in 60 Seconds (2000 Version)

A remake of an independent film released in 1974, Jerry Bruckheimer gave the Gone in 60 Seconds movie name the full Hollywood action treatment in 2000. In contrast to the first film, the 2000 version of Gone in 60 Seconds was packed with an all-star cast that included Nicolas Cage, Angelina Jolie and Robert Duvall. Depicting a massive organized car theft effort in both movies, a Ford Mustang was a supporting actor for the 1974 and 2000 film codenamed Eleanor who were part of climatic chase scenes. A yellow 1973 Ford Mustang Mach 1 portrayed Eleanor in the original Gone in 60 Seconds. In the hands of Nicolas Cage’s character Randall “Memphis” Raines in the 2000 movie, Eleanor was portrayed as a customized 1967 Shelby Mustang. Gray with a black racing stripe, NOS power boost and other modernized touches to the classic pony car assured a sad scene when the vehicle became classic Mustang parts.

Since the release of the second Gone in 60 Seconds movie, several individuals and even companies have replicated the look of the modified 1967 Shelby Mustang. In two cases, lawsuits from the executive producer and widow of the original Gone in 60 Seconds film creator Denise Shakarian Halicki had been rigorous in protecting the trademark of the “Eleanor” car. Even Carroll Shelby was blocked from producing Eleanor replicas based similarly to the vehicle he created. Of course, with some blood, sweat and tears, you could replicate the car yourself using the loads of shops still specializing in classic Mustangs, like over at Essex Mustang Centre’s parts website for example.

1970 Boss 302 Mustang Trans-Am Cars

Auto racing has immediately been present in the Ford Mustang’s bloodstream. With drivers such as Jerry Titus driving, Ford became a terror in the ‘over 2 liter’ category of the SCCA Trans-Am Series winning the first two manufacturer championships thanks to the pony car. With Chevrolet’s Camaro creating a formidable and successful fight for the 1968 as well as 1969 championship, Ford enlisted the help of NASCAR owner Bud Moore. Initially working with the Mercury Cougar in 1968, Bud Moore Engineering would receive Boss 302 Mustangs in 1969. Handled by road racing aces Parnelli Jones and George Follmer in 1970, the Ford Mustang Boss 302 would establish itself as a season-long frontrunner. The yellow with black racing striping run on the Trans-Am cars became an instant trademark to the Ford Mustang Boss 302. When the Boss 302 moniker was reintroduced for the 2012 model year at a competition racer, the theme of the original Ford Mustang model was recounted specifically in exterior graphics.

1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback in Bullitt

No mention of famous first generation Ford Mustangs could be complete without drawing attention to a memorable green car driven by Steve McQueen in the late 1960s. Recalled for containing what often appears as one of the most memorable car chases in cinema, the 1968 movie Bullitt achieved many high honours in filmmaking. In the movie, a green 1968 Ford Mustang GT Fastback driven by McQueen’s Bullitt pursued a black 1968 Dodge Charger on San Francisco area streets. Loaned two Mustang GT Fastbacks for the movie, brakes, suspension and the 390 V8 engine were modified to handle the rough driving conditions. Chasing down the hitmen riding away in the Charger, Bullitt’s 1968 Mustang GT Fastback proved superior in the popularized pursuit. The remaining of two scene cars was sold in 1972 to an anonymous owner will has kept the vehicle out of sight from the public. Even the Bullitt’s star Steve McQueen’s attempt to buy the movie vehicle was rebuffed.

A two recent occasions, Ford has bid tribute to the appearance in Bullitt with special edition models. Featuring several performance and structural modifications, the Bullitt special edition Ford Mustang was first offered in 2001. The second came with the fifth-generation Mustang in 2008 when a limited production of 7,700 vehicles was built to a Bullitt theme.

Information and photo source: Barrett Jackson Auction Company, Coys, Ford Motor Company

With much of the world busy guessing (and alarmingly betting on) the name of an unborn heir in a royal family, the automotive world braces for its own new additions. First coming at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show and to Detroit early in the new year, 2013 and beyond automobiles will see some brand new personalities emerged with many destined for dealerships. Instead of annoying a young woman and family with furious media attention, there’s considerably less wrong speculating on the yet to be released new products of a company.

Advance news on upcoming vehicles is compiled through a collective effort of automotive media insiders interviewing executives and/or spying on the development procedure of vehicles. Thanks to the trademark registration process in the United States, it is possible to get an idea of what might be in the minds of auto companies. Sometimes trademarks are acquired to preserve a famous, out of production vehicle for other monetary purposes. Ford Motor Company maintains and filed the ‘Thunderbird’ trademark in relations to a variety of merchandise such as collector coins in recent years. More thrilling, trademarked names can identify upcoming street vehicles before they have the covers removed for an official unveiling.

The following is a collection of United States trademarks currently associated with popular auto manufacturers may spoil suspense for what 2013 has in store:

General Motors

Appshop- Is General Motors preparing an endeavour into a new virtual marketplace? Trademarks attaching Appshop to three of General Motors’ four auto division (Cadillac not included) were filed earlier this year. The trademark registration describes the product as both computer software to manage connectivity for downloading software and as an online retail outlet. General Motors recently announced a revised version of MyLink would be equipped on the 2014 Chevrolet Impala but there is no mention of an Appshop or a similar functionality.

Cadillac LTS- Up until about the 1960s, Cadillac was as much a gold standard in global luxury as it was in American luxury. The Cadillac LTS could be future that will help the premier General Motors brand reclaim their spot on the world pedestal. Since introduction of their Sixteen concept car a decade ago, rumblings of Cadillac’s plan for a six-figure vehicle ultra-luxury sedan were apparent. Though the 2013 Cadillac XTS was introduced to market this year, possibilities of a higher tier vehicle continues be the source of speculation. With reports the four-door sedan is confirmed as a future model, we may not have to wait long to find out if Cadillac has a use for the LTS name.

Ford

Mach 1- A well-known accompaniment with the Ford Mustang in past years, the Mach 1 barrier could be broken for a future offering from the auto company. Connected to the Mustang pony car in 1969 to 1978, the name Mach 1 was revived later for a two-year run starting in 2003. The inclusion of the Mach 1 could be involved in ushering forward the next redesigned Ford Mustang. The Mach 1 name has a history for entering production ahead of major restyling.

BMW

BMW 430- Today, BMW announced the concept presentation of the 4 Series as a mid-range sport coupe. However, the ‘BMW 430’ trademark was registered over a year ago. As BMW appears ready to cover single digit numbers Projected by the German company as an evolutionary existence for the automobile, the BMW i division is nearing production scale with their electrified vehicles. In relations to the BMW i sub brand, the full number range from i1 to i9 have been registered.

Chrysler

Chrysler 100- Defining their flagship sedan with the historically anchored ‘300’ badging since 1999, Chrysler placed a spin on their famously used number renaming the mid-sized vehicles as the 200 in the 2011 model year. It seems like inedibility that Chrysler will follow their new numeric system if they wish to add a new vehicle. Perhaps indicating that an entry level Chrysler product is close down the production pipeline, Chrysler 100 has been claimed for possible use. First thoughts would connect the Chrysler 100 with an upscale version of the newly released Dodge Dart.

EcoDiesel 3.0L- As of the 2013 model year, the only diesel vehicle available in the United States under Chrysler Group is a Cummins 6.7 liter turbodiesel in the Ram HD pickup trucks. With a recent trademark, the inclusion of a smaller diesel powerplant could be possible once again in some Chrysler Group vehicles sold in the United States. Registering the EcoDiesel 3.0L badge design, a new diesel engine connected to the branding could be used to power a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee rumoured to be part of the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The powerplant could also be the propulsion for the upcoming Ram ProMaster work van.

Volkswagen

Nanobus and Microbus- Unveiled in 2011, the Volkswagen Bulli concept vehicle presented something exceptionally unique throughout last year’s auto show tour. A small corssover embodying the spirit of the 1960s Microbus, the Bulli concept was overall modern in presentation. Bringing the Bulli concept car to North America on occasions, Volkswagen tested the waters for the prospect sending this vehicle or a similar subcompact crossover into production. According to registered trademarks, Volkswagen has claimed both the Nanobus and Microbus names for use in a vehicle in the United States if market conditions are favourable.

Information source: BMW AG, Chrysler Group, General Motors, United States Patent and Trademark Office
Photo source: BMW AG, Chris Nagy, General Motors

Many of us scoff at the thought of paying exorbitant prices for branded merchandise that has nothing to do with our cars – “psshh see that old dude over there? He just paid $35,000 for a set of gold clubs with the Ferrari logo on it, what a tool.” Or the guy that buys a five-figure Breitling watch because he owns a Bentley. I’ll be honest – I’ve called more than a few guys a douchebag because of this, so I’m no less guilty than anyone else.

But let’s be honest folks, if you just bought a six-figure car, hopefully you’re incredibly proud of it. What’s wrong with showing some more enthusiasm and buying some merch to show you’re a fan? We forget that the people buying goods for these high-end cars have high-end budgets, and just because our eyeballs fall out at the sight of these pricetags, these guys would be buying shit that expensive anyway.

So where am I going with all this? Well, here’s another watch. This time it’s built by luxury watchmaker David Yurman in celebration of the most powerful Shelby ever put on the road – the Shelby 1000.

With a 1100 hp supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 capable of hitting 200 mph, calling it just a Mustang just seems sort of…wrong. What a beast. And the price? A supercar-level $155,000…PLUS the $55,000 or so you just spent on the GT500. Ouch.

The watch is designed after the car, and if you ask me, it does a helluva lot better of a job than a lot of the watches I’ve seen that are supposed to be made for a car (i.e. it does more than simply add the Shelby logo and a tach.) The wristband is unique and looks like the underbelly of a snake – nice touch. There is a tach…and a Shelby logo of course, but the entire watch does actually resemble the design spirit of the car, which is quite nice. And the final touch…an engraved Carroll Shelby signature on the back. The price: $8,600. Yeah, that’s expensive.

So, how much did you just spend on the car? At least $210,000, right? And how much for the car plus a really nice watch made specifically for your hand-built limited edition Shelby 1000 supercar…$218,600. Doesn’t seem that bad anymore, does it?

Check out the promo video below, which really makes you want the car, then check out the info for the wristwatch at the David Yurman Shelby website.

Passing in May, the loss of the legendary Carroll Shelby brought great sorrow to a crowd who had previously heard the revving of his many vehicle creations as a sign of the Texan’s life. Touching all three of the major American automakers, the Shelby touch lasted in the Ford Mustang to the point that a three-decade separation ending in 2005 continued to bring instant recognition in performance cars. In what is becoming a sizable number of tributes to a man that has made a big impact on the American sports cars, the latest piece remembrance to Carroll Shelby comes in the form of a special one-of-the-kind 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 hardtop.

Built by the “Friends of Carroll Shelby” (obviously a well-versed group in developing the qualities of motor vehicle production held true by their departed colleague), the one-off 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra commemorates 50 years since the AC Cobra roared forth to define American sports car history. Similar to the exterior look of early 1960s Cobra roadsters, Guardsman Blue with Wimbledon White stripes over the Shelby GT500 Cobra is an immediate dedication to where all the greatness started.

Beyond the historically derived paint scheme of this special Cobra edition, the 662-horsepower donor vehicle receives some 21st century performance touches. The most notable enhancement is conducted on the 5.8 liter V-8 powerplant of the Shelby GT500. Replacing the Eaton 2.3 liter supercharger unit with a 4-liter Ford Racing-sourced Whipple supercharger, the Shelby GT500 Cobra spins its rear wheels under the influence of over 850 horsepower. With nearly a 190 horsepower over the 2013 Shelby GT500 on sale, there is unfortunately no details for the acceleration or top speed of the unique 850-horsepower Cobra. For those recalling the ultra-rare, twin-supercharged 1966 Cobra Super Snake, the pounds to horsepower ratio estimates are around 5 pounds per horsepower. While there is no hard numbers connected to the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra, approximate data would place the Friends of Carroll Shelby-produced vehicle around 4.7 pounds per horsepower. The 850-horsepower Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra is indeed a temptation to early race-enthused driver.

Complementing the blue and white striping of the outside, a Shelby American body kit surrounds the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra presenting a pronounced, wide-body stance. The center hood scoop is also a distinctive touch on this special 2013 Shelby GT500 stylized to recreate the functional intake incorporated on all AC Cobra roadsters. Full 20-inch wheels are housed inside massive high-performance tires optimized for traction and additional grip with rear tires of the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra are 13-inch in width.

Making its public debut at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca this past weekend, the 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 Cobra is be touring the United States for the short-term. It is also indicated that the one-off Shelby GT500 Cobra will ultimately be used to in a way recognizing Carroll Shelby’s philanthropy according to Shelby American president John Luft. “In that spirit, this car will be taken on tour around the country, and hopefully will be used in a special way at the end of its tour – a way Carroll would appreciate.”, said Luft apparently suggesting the vehicle could become a sold for fundraising. For the record, Carroll Shelby had a long-running relationship with the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company.

Information and photo source: Ford Motor Company

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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.

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