2010 Ford MUSTANG SMS 460X

NEWS & REVIEWS Steve Saleen, his name being synonymous with fast Mustangs, would not be Steve if he kept his hands off Ford's newest pony. On the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the launch of the original Mustang in 1964, and in reflection on his 25 year association with America's iconic sports car. Instantly recognizable as Steve Saleen's work, the new SMS 460 Mustangs feature a host of visual and technical highlights that set them apart from the crowd. "I previewed many of the features of my newest Mustang with the 25th anniversary car I showed last year," says SMS Supercars CEO and President Steve Saleen. The front fascia treatment, the SMS Red Butterfly Air Induction Hood, the front and side splitters, the rear fascia and diffuser with the high down-force rear wing showed the way Steve Saleen is looking at Mustangs today. "You have to go with the times. While the Mustang remains an icon, Ford has done a very good job with the 2010 model. I wanted to interpret it using my signature to create the latest Steve Saleen version of this American favorite." The SMS 460 Mustang offers a 4.6 liter V8 engine featuring a minimum 470 hp and 427 ft-lb of torque, while the even more powerful SMS 460X Mustang engine with all new internal and headwork delivers 655 hp and 600 ft-lb out of the enlarged 5.0 liter V8; both use the new SMS 296 Supercharger. Transmission options are a 5-speed automatic or 5-speed manual on the 460 or a 6-speed SMST manual on the top of the line 460X. Performance for both cars is expectedly striking. The 460 Mustang accelerates from 0 to 60 in the low 4 seconds, while the 460X manages the same in the lower 4's. In addition to engine output, handling, road holding and braking play an equally important role. The 2010 SMS 460 Mustangs feature Steve's signature Watt's linkage suspension with all-new geometry. New SMS brakes front and rear deliver impressive stopping power to match the jaw-dropping performance. The interior with all-new Alcantara and leather SMS performance seats features the patented Signature Series chevron stripes. Dash and interior panels are covered in hand-stitched high-quality leather. Multiple seat chevron and SMS unique exterior colors are available. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Ford MUSTANG Shelby GT500 Super Snake

NEWS & REVIEWS Not even out of 2009 yet, Shelby has released some details on its tuning packages for the 2010 Ford Mustang. The top-dog package is the Shelby Super Snake, designed for the GT500. Shelby starts with a new supercharger for the 5.4-liter V-8 that, combined with an upgraded intercooler, cold-air intake, and JBA exhaust, churns out 750 hp. To help it on the Nürburgring track times, Shelby has strapped on a Ford Racing suspension with adjustable dampers, stiffer springs, thicker antiroll bars, a new front strut tower brace, and custom 20-inch rims and tires. For street appeal, Shelby replaced the hood and added racing stripes, rear quarter window scoops, and a carbon-fiber splitter. Shelby: Continued demand for a "Super Snake" post title package has led Shelby Automobiles to unveil a new program to turn a limited number of 2010 Ford Shelby GT500s into Shelby super cars. The Super Snake package will include enhancements to the 2010 Ford Shelby GT500's handling, styling and power; output ratings will range from 630 to over 725 horsepower. Exclusivity will be assured as a limited number of Super Snakes will be built at the Shelby Autos facility in Las Vegas or one of the Mod Shops, beginning in August 2009. The 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake post title package includes: • 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 630 HP and 590 ft.-lbs. of torque • Borla exhaust system on the 630 HP Ford Racing Super Snake Package • 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 rear axle ratio • Either a Shelby/Ford Racing or Shelby/Kenne Bell supercharger kit producing 725 HP with upgraded drive shaft, billet twin 75mm throttle body and exclusive badges • Borla exhaust system on the 725 HP Super Snake Package • An optional Shelby / Eibach handling pack is also available • Shelby-designed Alcoa 20-inch wheels • Short-throw shifter • Forged Shelby / Baer brakes with 6 piston calipers and cross drilled / vented rotors • Front brake cooling ducts • Unique fiberglass hood featuring classic Shelby design • Shelby signature Super Snake stripes • "Shelby" lettering across the rear decklid • "Super Snake" vehicle badges and official Shelby CSM interior plate • Shelby signature embroidered headrests, floor mats and other Shelby designed components Customers interested in bringing their 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 to one of the Shelby Mod Shops for transformation should contact Roger Sorel with Shelby Automobiles at (702) 942-7325. The price of the 630 HP package is $29,495 and the 725 HP package is $33,495 including installation but not the car. Each vehicle will be listed in the official Shelby registry. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Ford MUSTANG Shelby GT500

NEWS & REVIEWS The new 2010 Ford Shelby GT500 delivers the most power and refinement ever for a Ford SVT-tuned performance Mustang – and a few surprises, too. The combination of added horsepower, refinement and functionality makes the 2010 Shelby GT500 a unique high-performance car. The 2010 Shelby GT500 delivers more horsepower and more torque than the outgoing model, thanks in part to advancements pioneered on the GT500KR. The 2010 Shelby GT500 is powered by a supercharged and intercooled 5.4-liter dual overhead cam V-8 engine expected to produce 540 horsepower and 510 foot-pounds of torque. The redline is 6,250 rpm. The car’s aluminum power dome hood not only adds to the Shelby’s appearance, it helps cool the engine through a hood extractor. The twin-disc clutch on the six-speed manual transmission has been significantly upgraded, improving drivability and NVH. The discs on the 2010 Shelby GT500 are larger – 250 mm in diameter compared with 215 mm in diameter on the outgoing model – and made of copper and fiberglass to make them more robust. The 2010 Shelby GT500 offers customers improved straight-line acceleration, plus fuel savings when cruising on the highway in the top gears. Gears 1-4 remain the same, but fifth gear changes from .80 to .74 while sixth gear goes from .63 to .50, meaning that the 2010 Shelby GT500 will turn lower engine RPMs in those gears and deliver improved fuel efficiency. The new final drive ratio, from 3.31 to 3.55, enables the improved acceleration in lower gears while complementing the revised fifth and sixth gear ratios. The Shelby’s distinct sounds will be apparent as always, though with new refinements, thanks to the work of the Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) team. A patented resonator placed between the air filter and engine throttle body helps keep unwanted noise in check. Driving dynamics also are improved, thanks to SVT’s signature chassis tuning as well as new 19-inch Goodyear F1 Supercar tires and forged aluminum wheels on the 2010 Shelby GT500 coupe and 18s on the convertible. Spring and dampers have been optimized for better roll control, giving customers more confidence when braking, accelerating or turning. The new chassis tuning takes its philosophy from the KR program, with a greater emphasis placed on primary body control. The team also stiffened the steering shaft. Numerous aerodynamic upgrades, including a redesigned splitter, were made to the front end of the 2010 Shelby GT500. Directing the air so it’s used most efficiently was a painstaking process that ultimately will be rewarding to customers. The design of the front fascia and the car’s “flush” hood helps focus air flow. The top grille focuses air into the radiator, with a rubber flap inside the engine compartment helping to seal the system. The lower grille helps cool the intercooler. SVT engineers also went as far to block off specific diamonds in the front of the 2010 Shelby GT500’s distinctive grille to help maintain the correct cooling and aerodynamic balance. Another obvious difference for the Shelby is the addition of racing stripes, which also will now be available on the convertible. Rounding out the Shelby’s exterior modifications are the unique signature coiled Cobra badges on the front grille and front fenders, a more aggressive front splitter and lower-drag rear spoiler, which added to improved aerodynamic features, round out the exterior modifications. “We wanted the spoiler raked back aggressively to minimize drag, but we also have an integrated Gurney Flap that provides the downforce,” Saridakis said. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Ford MUSTANG Saleen S281

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS Saleen Performance Vehicles today unveiled the first in its 2010 premiere line of high-performance cars, the 2010 Saleen S281. The introduction took place at the annual SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. This is the second Saleen vehicle launched this year, following the 2010 435S introduced in August. The S281, based on the 2010 Ford Mustang, displays a premium level of design consideration, both exterior and interior, with performance to match. It builds on the Saleen tradition of offering limited-edition, high-performance vehicles for enthusiasts who are looking for an exhilarating driving experience, with refined driveability for real-world road conditions. The S281's exterior design features carefully crafted sculptural detailing,with lines and forms that flow naturally and suggest suppleness, power and agility. It features an understated yet imposing grille and front fascia, and a refined treatment of the familiar Saleen extended rear fascia and trunk lid with a simple, elegant, integrated wing. The S281's 4.6-liter V8 engine is equipped with a Saleen Series VI.5 twin-screw supercharger and dual-stage intercooler. It produces 485 hp and 460 lb.-ft. of torque, sent to the rear wheels through a short-throw, five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential with 3.73:1 final drive ratio. The Saleen Racecraft suspension system is new, and includes specially tuned, single-rate front and rear springs; nitrogen-pressurized front struts and rear shocks with a wide range of damping adjustments; and a specially tuned front sway bar with performance pivot bushings. The interior features new, leather sport seats with Ultra-Suede inserts, highlighted by chevron-like Ultra-Suede red tabs in the seatback bolsters, and unique treatments of the gauges, steering wheel, center console and shifter. There also are contrasting Saleen logos in the door panels, and Saleen logos in the door sill plates that illuminate when the door is opened. Additional exterior highlights include unique, 20-inch, 7-spoke alloy wheels with Pirelli P-Zero Rosso high-performance tires, and Saleen S281 Supercharged fender badging. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Ford MUSTANG Glass Roof

NEWS & REVIEWS The 2010 Ford Glass Roof Mustang and Mustang GT convertible, which are arriving in dealerships now, offer consumers sun-soaked driving and top-rated safety heritage. Fans of open-air motoring have made the Mustang convertible a perennial bestseller. Those who love the sun but want to cut back on sunscreen use can choose the pony car with the panoramic glass roof, which filters nearly all of the sun's harmful rays. The 2010 Ford Glass Roof Mustang offers consumers convertible-like driving without the need for sunscreen, because its factory-installed panoramic glass roof filters 90 percent of the sun's heat-generating infrared (IR) rays and 96 percent of burn-causing ultraviolet (UV) rays. The UV-filtering capability of the new Mustang's fixed glass roof is comparable to sunscreen lotion with a sun protection factor (SPF) of approximately 50, which exceeds the dermatologist-recommended sunscreen strength of at least SPF-15. The glass roof's ability to filter IR rays reduces heat load in the cabin so that occupants remain comfortable while enjoying the sun. The reflective glass also reduces energy used by the vehicle's air conditioner system while protecting the interior fabric from fading and deteriorating. Sun-soaked cruising is the convertible and Glass Roof Mustang's top appeal factor. Scientific studies show that increased exposure to sunshine or bright light is therapeutic because it regulates the body's synthesis of melatonin, a mood-regulating hormone that modulates the circadian cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Sunshine also triggers the body's conversion to active vitamin D, considered to be an effective natural remedy for "the blues." Health experts caution that cool breezes in convertibles can misleadingly mask the sun's harmful rays as occupants may not feel as hot as when they're stationary under the sun. Therefore, dermatologists recommend the use of sun-block lotion or moisturizer with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher prior for top-down drives. According to J.D. Power feature content research, 62 percent of buyers in the sports car segment wanted a sunroof/moon roof on their next vehicle. Since its introduction in 2008, the Glass Roof Mustang – which is available as a $1,995 option on both the V-6 model and the GT – has accounted for 10 percent of all Mustang sales. The convertible accounts for 25 percent of Mustang sales, and sell most strongly in California, Florida, Texas and Georgia. Mustang is just one Ford model that features ample sunlight and generous views. The 2010 Lincoln MKS and 2009 Ford Flex, Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX also offer sun-splashed driving enjoyment with an optional panoramic roof glass that is privacy tinted for the occupants' comfort and protection. According to CSM Worldwide, over the last five years panoramic sunroofs have doubled in the popularity in North America. The installation of tilt/slide type sunroofs will remain dominant, followed by panoramic and spoiler types throughout 2011. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2010 Ford MUSTANG Cobra Jet

VIDEO: NEWS & REVIEWS Since its victorious introduction at the NHRA Winternationals in 1968, Ford's Cobra Jet Mustang has created a legacy of power, performance and triumph. The 40th Anniversary 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang lived up to the legend of the original, duplicating the NHRA Winternationals victory in 2009 and dominating drag strips across the land. Ford Racing unveiled the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustang at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, which marks the continued evolution of the CJ as a factory-produced turnkey race car. In honor of the SEMA introduction, Ford Racing built and unveiled a one-of-a-kind "SEMA Special" silver Cobra Jet complete with a charcoal Cobra Jet graphics package. The 2010 Cobra Jet, like its predecessor, is a factory-built race car that is intended for NHRA Stock and Super Stock racing. The goal for the 2010 Cobra Jet was to enhance the race features to further make its own place in NHRA history. The 2010 CJ will come with all of the features of the 2008 car with enhancements that include options for a full race-prepared automatic or manual transmission, drag race-specific shocks and springs, manual steering and brakes, 8.50 certified rollcage, and an Aeromitive return-style fuel system with trunk-mounted fuel cell. Additionally Ford Racing engineers have developed for the 2010 Cobra Jet a factory-first launch control/rev limiter that will allow drivers to preset the rpm after they stage the car. When they are ready to leave, all they do is put the throttle pedal to the floor; they don't have the engine speed to free rev. Previously, the launch control/rev limiter was only available as an aftermarket option. Much like Ford Racing's previous Mustang FR500S race car, the Cobra Jet Mustang will get its start at the Auto Alliance International (AAI) assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The entire 50-car run of 2010 Cobra Jets will be built on the same production line that produces the 2010 Ford Mustang production car. Production of Cobra Jets will commence in January, with delivery of all vehicles expected in the first quarter of 2010. All of the additional parts and pieces for the CJ can be found in the Ford Performance Parts catalog. And since the Cobra Jet is produced from a base V-6 Mustang, any consumer can turn his Mustang into a Cobra Jet by purchasing the parts from the Ford Performance Parts catalog. The 2010 CJ car features a choice for customers between two supercharged engines or three normally aspirated engines (pending NHRA approval). These options will allow the Cobra Jet to be eligible for more classes in the NHRA, as well as competition with other sanctioning bodies, including NMRA, NMCA, PSCA and IHRA. All 50 of the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustangs have already been ordered by Ford dealers for delivery to customers. For those customers who missed out on the limited run of 2010 Cobra Jets, Ford Racing has set a goal to provide future versions of the Cobra Jet. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ford MUSTANG Saleen Dark Horse

NEWS & REVIEWS One sure-fire way to make a huge profit off an existing automobile is to create a limited-edition model. Saleen seems to be using this philosophy well, with a plethora of special-edition Mustangs hitting the market. At its core, the Dark Horse is a Saleen S320 Extreme with a shaker hood and some black paint. Only 25 will be built so expect each one to cost a lot and to, hopefully, appreciate well in the distant future. by: Benjamin Greene It has been an incredible year for Saleen, Inc, America’s premiere niche vehicle manufacturer, with the elite 25th Anniversary Sterling Signature Edition, the unveiling of the S5S Raptor at the New York Auto Show, production of the Dan Gurney Edition, release of the Racecraft brand and the much anticipated reveal of the 2009 Dark Horse Extreme Edition. With a limited production of 25 coupes being built, this has become a classic round up of high end performance at Saleen. The Product The Dark Horse provides 620HP with 600 ft.-lbs of torque with Speedlab SuperShaker option supplying exclusive styling while enhancing performance. “The vehicle takes advantage of the ram effect into the SuperShaker air box,” states Dan Agnew, Powertrain Engineering Manager, “It increases pressure in the air box, which adds boost by 0.5 psi and holds air charge temperature relatively constant even with the higher boost.” Styling This 25 unit special run combines the power and handling of the Saleen Extreme and the exclusive Heritage body style with interior and exterior cues found only in the “Dark Horse”. The elite Flat Black Exterior graphics and identification, Saleen serialized engine plaque, Navigation System and sport leather seating with Alcantara inserts adds to the exquisite style of this limited edition vehicle. Content “The Dark Horse provides the capability of extreme horsepower and provides the detailed look our customers expect. By merging the Super Shaker with the Extreme powertrain we have created a no compromise solution for people looking for both performance and classic Mustang looks,” states Marc Musial, Chief Powertrain Engineer. The Dark Horse includes: * Saleen Port Matched Series VI Integrated Screw type supercharger * Forged aluminum pistons * Forged steel connecting rods * Forged steel crankshaft The composition of the Dark Horse provides the most intense Saleen ride yet. Production The production of the Dark Horse begins November 2008. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ford MUSTANG Roush Trak Pak

NEWS & REVIEWS It’s a real dilemma for Mustang fans whom spend Monday through Friday commuting to the office, but want to spend the weekends at the track: How do you stay street legal? Well, Jack Roush feels your pain. He’s just introduced a special Roush Trak-Pak package that you can either use to convert your existing Roush-tuned Mustang, or specify when you order a Roush 427R Mustang coupe. A completed car will set you back $58,245; race numbers are extra. The package focuses mainly on suspension that allows you, in just a few minutes, to fully adjust the dampers to race trim and lower the ride height by up to 1.4 inches. The new brake setup includes 14-inch two-piece slotted rotors up front with six-piston calipers. Buy the complete car and you get a 435-hp supercharged V-8 with a Roush exhaust, a terrific body kit with working vents to cool the bigger brakes, forged alloys, and an upgraded interior. Just aim for the checkered flag. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ford MUSTANG Roush Stage 3

NEWS & REVIEWS Love Ford’s pony car, but would love it more with an extra jolt of performance and more nimble handling? That’s what prompted Mustang tuning-guru Jack Roush to develop his Roush Stage 3 conversion. Plumbing in a supercharger and intercooler takes Ford’s 4.6-liter V-8 from a stock 300 hp to a more significant 415 hp. An extra 85 lb-ft of torque—now up to 385 lb-ft—also gives stronger mid-range thrust. The package doesn’t only focus on acceleration; suspension upgrades deliver 1g-plus cornering on the skid pad ,while 14-inch rotors on the front sharpen the Mustang’s stopping power. To add some show to the go, the Stage 3 features Roush’s seven-piece body kit, along with custom 18-inch forged rims shod with high-performance rubber. Inside, you get leather seats, white-face gauges, and Roush aluminum pedals. The package will set you back around $21,000 more than the price of a Mustang GT and is available on both Mustang Coupes and Convertibles. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge

2009 Ford MUSTANG Roush P-51A

NEWS & REVIEWS Jack Roush has built some pretty special hi-po Mustangs over the years. But this one is personal. Combining his passion for fast Fords and a love for old airplanes, Roush recently announced a limited run of 151 big-horsepower Mustang coupes he’s christened P-51A. For the aviation illiterate, P-51A is the designation of Roush’s personal, and much loved, ex-World War II Mustang fighter plane that he flies at every opportunity. In keeping with its special badging, the Ford is the highest-horsepower Mustang that Roush has ever produced. Using the 4.6-liter Mustang V-8 as a base, it’s then treated to forged aluminum pistons and connecting rods, an aluminum flywheel, and a forged, eight-bolt crank. Bolt on the latest Roush blower and you get a hefty 510 hp. Exterior cues include a Roush body kit and 18-inch wheels along with fighter-inspired silver paint, a green stripe, and the yellow and red badging of the Eighth Air Force—just like Jack’s own plane. PHOTOS: click photos to enlarge