Special Barrett Jackson Shelby Mustang Announced

Three icons in the automotive industry, Barrett Jackson, Carroll Shelby and Ford Motor Company, worked together to create a very special limited edition Ford Mustang that was unveiled recently at the famed auction site. Only 100 models will be made and a portion of every sale will go to the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation.

“The Arizona and Las Vegas Ford dealers have been strong supporters of mine over the years, which is why Shelby Automobiles joined with Barrett-Jackson and Ford Motor Company to create a limited edition car just for their customers,” said Carroll Shelby, CEO of Shelby Automobiles. “And I’m pleased that a portion of the sales will benefit an endowment we’re building at the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation. This is a rare chance for enthusiasts to enjoy a very special car and support a great cause.”

The Ford Motor Company was very excited to be involved in the special edition and have long supported Barrett Jackson. The company was behind the recent Family Values Day that took place during the auction, giving families a little something extra to do while they attended the auction. Discounted tickets were made available and all those under the age of 12 were admitted absolutely free.

“Barrett-Jackson’s unrivaled lifestyle events celebrate America’s love of the automobile,” said Ford Motor Company Phoenix Regional Sales Manager, Tim Stoehr. “Their passion for the automobile has resulted in a unique venue to share our vehicles with the public. This limited edition car symbolizes our high octane relationship and gives a few lucky people the chance to own a piece of the Barrett-Jackson experience.”

Barrett Jackson is an auction that is heavily attended by Mustang aficionado’s and has been the site of the some of the highest selling auctions for this iconic car in the past. This year’s event was a show stopper with many classic Mustangs reaching the six figure amount during their sales. Even regular models managed to bring in quite a lot of interest.

“We have a long tradition of selling the best Shelbys in the world because they are among the most desirable cars ever built,” said Craig Jackson, Chairman/CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. “Over the past several years, we’ve worked with Ford Motor Company to raise almost a million and a half dollars for Carroll’s Foundation by offering new Shelby cars for sale. It was natural to celebrate our connection to these cars with a very limited edition Shelby.”

The special edition has been highly modified and offers Mustang lovers a change to own a true legend. “As someone who has been personally involved with Shelby cars for the past three decades, I’m very proud to be part of this limited edition car,” noted Steve Davis, President of Barrett-Jackson. “Rarity and documentation are two of the keys to collectability, which is why only 100 Barrett-Jackson Shelby GTs are scheduled to be built. Each car will come with complete documentation and be included in the factory authorized registry.”

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Taking a Close Look at the 2008 Shelby Mustang GT

For the 40th anniversary of the historic 1968 Ford Mustang, Ford has once again teamed up with Carroll Shelby to create the 2008 Shelby Mustang GT. This car has had enthusiasts drooling for some time and does not disappoint in the slightest. The building process is a bit different for this model, as it starts out at the Ford Michigan plant as a regular Mustang GT, before being shipped to Shelby Automotives in Las Vegas. Once it arrives there, it gets special treatment before it is shipped out to dealerships nationwide.

This year, the Shelby Mustang GT will be getting a convertible option, thanks in part to the resurgence in popularity for this option on other Mustangs. A new color has also been added to the mix, called Vista Blue. This color comes complete with silver stripes, and joins Performance White and Performance Black as the only available color options for this model.

Once the Mustang GT is transformed into the Shelby Mustang GT it receives a new hood scoop similar to the one that was added to the celebrated Shelby Cobra model. The car is also outfitted with a lower air dam, and the two combined give it a fresh new look that is very bold. The finishing touches are provided by side scoops near the back of the vehicle.

The changes don’t stop with the exterior. Inside, you’ll find a Shelby authentication plate with numbering that matches the one found under the hood. In addition, the Shelby GT Mustang is the only Shelby model to come with the option of an automatic transmission in addition to the standard manual. The manual edition offers a Hurst short-throw shifter, which is sure to please many aficionados.

Under the hood, the Shelby Mustang GT also sees some changes. The 4.6L V8 engine produces 319hp and 330lb feet of torque. The exhaust system is high flow and comes with an X pipe crossover and matching dual exhaust tips. The changes result in a different exhaust tone, similar in tone to the ones that made the 1967 and 1968 model so popular.

When you purchase the Shelby Mustang GT, you also get to take advantage of the Ford Racing Handling Package which is installed standard on these models. This includes sway bars that are unique to the design of this vehicle, special dampers and a 3.55:1 ratio rear axle. All of these components put together result in a Mustang with superior handling and performance.

If you want to get your hands on one of these highly collectible Mustangs, you’ll have to hurry. According to Ford, they only expect less than 2500 to be made in total this year. This includes coupes and convertibles, and is based on the sales figures from the previous year. The official price has not yet been released, but is expected to come in pretty close to last year’s model which retailed for around $35k. Demand may drive prices up, given that there will be very few to go around.

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Legislation Goes Up Against Muscle Cars

As the deadline for gas friendly vehicles looms in the future, many states are taking the opportunity to pass legislation against muscle cars such as the Ford Mustang. It is bad enough that the V8 engine may be virtually outlawed thanks to new regulations, but states are also working to discourage drivers from keeping their existing muscle cars on the road.

Several states are considering passing high tax surcharges on vehicles that do not meet the upcoming standards for pollution levels. Even if you have an efficient V8, you may still end up getting penalized for it. Some states are planning a $2500 tax that will be in addition to any extra taxes passed at the Federal level. This could mean disaster for many muscle car owners who simply cannot afford to swallow that high of a penalty.

Hawaii recently announced that they are working on legislation that will feature a progressive sliding fee schedule that will be directly related to the size of a car’s engine. The more power you have under your hood, the more you can expect to pay the state if you want to keep driving it. Not only would fees be payable when you purchase the car, but they would also be due when you relicense it each year. This could quickly add up for many car owners.

The planned increases will be in addition to the federally mandated fees that are due upon registration. If your engine is greater than 200 cu CM, you can expect to get hit with this fee if you live in Hawaii.

New York residents will also have something to complain about. Currently, the state legislation is working on a bill that would enforce a special surcharge on vehicles at the time of their purchase. The larger the engine, the more you will have to pay in order to purchase the vehicle of your choice. It is possible that vehicle owners would be required to fork over up to $2500 in additional fees under this program.

The state plans to use the funds that will be collected under the new program to help fund special discounts that will be given to those who decide to purchase “green” cars instead. This could be the final kicker for many who just can’t afford that extra surcharge tacked on to the purchase price of a vehicle.

Last but not least, is Washington State, where they are considering taxing by emissions. They plan to set up two different progressive fee scales for drivers of muscle cars, based on the size of their engines as well as the amount of emissions that the cars produce. Once again, the extra fees would be due when the car is purchased and then again when the license is renewed.

Experts estimate that this could mean an additional $600 in fees at the time of purchase and then another $600 per year every time the car is renewed. Smaller engines might even be taxed under this new plan. It is not clear if any of these states plan to make a distinction for truck engines.

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Eleanor Mustang Rides Again

Thanks to the efforts of Classic Restorations, fans of the classic 1967 Ford Mustang that was immortalized as Eleanor in the film Gone in 60 Seconds, will be able to get their hands on one. This is one of the most sought after Ford Mustangs and nearly impossible to get. However, these new editions will soon be available to the public in a limited number.

The press release issued jointly by Halicki Films and Classic Restorations stated, Halicki Films Company, producer of the motion picture "Gone in 60 Seconds," is pleased to announce that Classic Recreations has been selected as the exclusive, first ever, officially-licensed custom fabricator to build the iconic "Eleanor" Mustang from "Gone in 60 Seconds." "Eleanor" captured everyone's hearts in her reprisal role in the 2000 feature film "Gone in 60 Seconds," starring with her leading man, Nicolas Cage. Now, for the very first time, movie fans and Mustang enthusiasts alike can own their own authentic, officially-licensed "Gone in 60 Seconds Eleanor" collectible vehicle.

Halicki Films Company granted Classic Recreations the license to build the only genuine "Eleanors" after numerous visits to the company's Oklahoma factory and a full battery of rigorous background and criteria checks. The agreement grants Classic Recreations the right to license the intellectual properties held exclusively by Halicki Films Company, including the copyrights, trademarks, trade dress and logos in and to "Eleanor" and "Gone in 60 Seconds," and "Eleanor's" one-of-a-kind, amazing movie looks, in connection with the manufacturing, marketing, sale and distribution of the officially licensed collectible "Gone in 60 Seconds Eleanor."

The new Eleanor will be available in two models, both the 535hp FI or the 770hp FIS Model. The FI can reach speeds in excess of 172mph. The FIS has a specially engineered rear suspension and both models include the famed “Go Baby Go” button. Pricing ranges from $140k up to $190k for the 770hp version.

The release also noted, "Eleanor" is built on a classic muscle car frame but with high-tech materials and technology to produce the reliable power and handling of a modern-day factory race car. These custom-built, high-performance Mustangs are handcrafted to order by Classic Recreations and offer such performance features as coil over suspension, sequential fuel injection, oversized slotted and crossdrilled Baer brakes, and a 410cid Keith Craft Racing engine. "Eleanor" also comes equipped with a Tremec TKO Manual or Automatic Transmission, Posi Traction, Concept One serpentine drive belt system, braided stainless fuel lines, air conditioning, custom sound system, and five-point Simpson harnesses. Additional owner-specified upgrades can include leather interior, keyless entry, and custom in-dash DVD and satellite navigation and entertainment systems.

"We wanted to make sure the company we chose to build the very first authentic, officially licensed 'Eleanor' was credible and reliable, and, more importantly, that they are truly craftsmen. Classic Recreations' passion for the Movies and 'Eleanor' can be seen in the company's handcrafting work. They're making show cars," said Ms Denice Halicki.”

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Mustang Club of America Coming to Asheville

The Mustang Club of America recently announced that they will be holding their annual meeting in 2010 at the Asheville, NC Biltmore Estate. The news was met with great enthusiasm by club members who are looking forward to this auspicious year, which coincides with the release of the hotly anticipated 2010 Ford Mustang.

The Ford Mustang remains one of the most collectible cars of all time and the most popular muscle car in America. “They were the cars of my time,” said Arden resident Jan Roupe, 63, who owns a 2005 convertible, two ’67s and a ’66. “I’ve bought all of mine since I’ve gotten older. They kind of remind you of your youth.”

Overall, the club has 100 members who own 145 Ford Mustangs between them. The club has been in existence for 13 months and the rate of growth has impressed club leaders. 55 members of the club sit on the board and they all voted to hold the 2010 meeting at the Biltmore during their January session. They hope to attract even more members by that time. “We’re thinking we can do 1,000 cars for the nationals,” Club President Joe Grace said. “We would like to break the record.”

The event has been scheduled to take place over Labor Day weekend and the Biltmore is already getting ready for the big event. “Based upon the conservative numbers of 800 cars and about 1,200 people, the figure would be just under $700,000,” said Brian Yates, a “destination guru” with the Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau. “If they get the numbers that Joe expects — over 1,000 cars and more than 1,500 people — then we are looking at more like $900,000 to a $1 million for that weekend.”

The cost for attendance is expected to be around $30 for the three day weekend and the Biltmore will be hosting the cars and allowing attendees access to the grounds. Currently, Biltmore Farms Hotels is one of the largest complexes in the United States and they are expected to grow to a total of five hotels near the estate by 2010.

Asheville natives are excited that the event is coming to their neck of the woods. Mustang lovers are quite common in this area and a recent event featuring 330 cars managed to raise $14k for a local hospice. Members of the club are also looking forward to seeing all the vehicles that will converge at the Biltmore during the event. “I’ve had about nine over the years,” said Waynesville resident Albert Rathbone, who currently owns a 2004 Mach I. “The Mustang is an American icon,” Grace said. “Other than the Corvette, what do you have left that’s a true muscle car?”

If you would like to attend this event, the Blue Ridge Mustang Association in Asheville has provided more information at their website: www.brmcoa.com. Interested parties can also contact the Club president Joe Grace directly by phone by calling 670-5638.

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Shelby GT500 Super Snake Mustang

Shelby Automotive has finally confirmed that they do plan to produce a Super Snake GT500 Ford Mustang in 2008. The company revealed their plans this month and stated that a very limited number of GT500 Mustangs will undergo the transformation process to Super Snakes. The option will be available both for coupes and convertibles.

“At Shelby Autos, we believe that life needs more,” said Amy Boylan, President of Shelby Automobiles. “That’s why we’ve teamed up with the best in the business to offer a Ford Shelby GT500 with even more punch. Working together, we’ve developed one mean pony car that puts out more power and balanced performance than any other American production car on the road.”

The Super Snake is considered to be one of the most collectible and highly sought after Mustang modifications in existence. So far, exact pricing has not been determined, but the models featuring 600hp are expected to retail for around $28k, with the 725hp models reaching up to $32k.

“We’re always looking around the corner for new ways to deliver balanced performance that’s unlike anything else on the road,” said Jamie Allison, Manager of Ford Racing Performance Group. “The GT500 Super Snake package, with its higher horsepower levels and balanced track-inspired tuning, satisfies those demands and then some … in a uniquely Ford – Shelby way.”

The special package will include enhancements at the performance level to bring the engine up to either 600 or 725hp. The 600hp model will come with the Ford Racing Supercharger and will include a special warranty. According to the company it will also include a, “Ford Racing handling pack including Dynamic adjustable dampers, lowering springs, tuned stabilizer bars, and front strut tower brace is standard for the Super Snake, Ford Racing Supercharger upgrade kit producing over 600 HP and 590 ft.-lbs. of torque, Borla exhaust system on the 600 HP Ford Racing Super Snake Package.” The 725hp model will not come with a warranty but will feature extra performance enhancers.

“Carroll Shelby is always telling our team that life needs more,” said Amy Boylan, President of Shelby Automobiles. “That’s why we’ve teamed up with leading companies like Kenne Bell to leverage their expertise and develop exclusive parts for our post title packages. Working with our performance-driven partners, we’re going to deliver one of the most exciting cars in the world.”

“We’ve been working with Amy Boylan, Gary Patterson and their team to develop an optional high performance supercharger kit for the Super Snake package,” noted Kenne Bell Company CEO Jim Bell. “Ford engineers built a phenomenal engine for the Shelby Mustang GT500, so it’s exciting to have the opportunity to take this amazing machine to the next level. The optional Super Snake package we developed, showcasing over 725 horsepower, will include an upgraded drive shaft, a billet twin 75mm throttle body and boast one of the most powerful superchargers on the market.”

If you are interested in a Super Snake, they will be only offered by Shelby Automotives.

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SA Motor New Car Review – Ford Fiesta Ghia

Reviewer: Mark Borlace – RAA
Date: June 2004

Power: 74kW @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 146Nm @ 4,000rpm
Weight to power: 14.6 kg/kW
Price as tested: $21,490
Fuel Consumption: 7.7 l/ 100km

Buyers in this very competitive small car market look for the quality but have a keen eye on price so to be successful it has to be good value for money.

The new Ford Fiesta may again make Ford competitive in this part of the market because they have not had any thing to match the Toyota Echo or Holden Barina since they stopped selling the Festiva a couple of years ago.

The Fiesta range starts with the 3 door LX model at $14,490, but once you add air-conditioning, automatic transmission and ABS its price jusy $1,000 below the top end of the range, as the 5 door Ghia with manual transmission is $21,490. The larger Ford Focus starts in this price bracket and it Festiva may pull sales off of its larger sibling.

The styling of the German build Fiesta, whether it is the 3 or 5 door versions is obviously European, inside and out.

The incorporation of the tail lights high up in the rear C pillar is becoming popular with small car designers as it also increase the visibility of the tail and brakes lights to traffic further behind than just the car that is immediately following.

Inside the Fiesta has a comfortable feel of spaciousness for a small car, as there is good headroom.

The seats are firm and flat and very much in the European style of seating which although may feel too firm at first are actually quite comfortable for longer trips.

Fiesta’s dash is well designed and easy-to-use as the large control dials are easy to reach, however, the LCD read outs for the fuel and temperature gauges are harder to read and it would it be nice to see them made bolder easier to read.

Also the Fiesta has good, usable boot space for a small car.

Buyers will need to be aware that the fiesta comes with the space saver tyre, which is unfortunate, because the spare wheel well is capable of housing a conventional spare wheel.

Dual airbags is standard across the Fiesta range however side curtain and thorax airbags are available in the Ghia model but only as an option.

The performance of the 1.6 litre, 4 cylinder, 16 valve Duratec engine is one of its features.

Beyond 2000 rpm it is a very lively and useable engine and when driven on some steeper sections of the Adelaide Hills the five-speed manual gearbox was well matched to make maximum use of the 74kW engine

And on winding sections of these same roads the Ford Fiesta handled well as its tight little body supported the suspension package.

Back in the city the Fiesta’s turning circle of less than 10 metres made it easy to manoeuvre in narrow city streets and car parks.

On test the fuel consumption was7.7 l/100kms and its intelligent engine management system will allow Fiesta either unleaded or if premium unleaded fuel is used it will adjust to get better performance out of the engine.

The Fiesta is a good package that will give Ford a chance of regaining a real presence on this part of the market.
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