February 8, 2008

New Knight Rider TV Spot on NBC



[Via Jalopnik]
Well, our good friends at Knight Rider Online have the scoop yet again on a new commercial for the new Mustang-ed up Knight Rider mini-series. The show'll be airing on the February 17th. The commercial? From what we understand, that aired last night on Conan O'Brien. The one new bit of info we're able to glean from the 30-seconds of 'stang-love is we get to see KITT's voice modulator for the first time. Oh yay. Want to see the other commercials? They're here, here and here and oh yes, here. We're going to get back to covering the Chicago Auto Show now.
[Via Knight Rider Online]


[Photos From NBC.com]

February 6, 2008

How (Camaros and) Mustangs Should Sound: VROOM VROOM!

[Via Jalopnik]


Since today's PCH has us in a Mustang/Camaro frame of mind, it's time to see a few that actually, you know, run. Turn up your speakers, because you're going to want to share this with everyone in the office. No, really. Crank 'em up all the way! What we have here is 24 Hours of LeMons Flat Rock winner ViergangFuchs, aka Jack Baruth at the wheel of a '95 Mustang Cobra in a Camaro-Mustang Challenge race last year. Power levels and suspension mods are fairly limited (those much faster cars blowing past in the video are in a different class), so what you're seeing here is the view from a not-absurdly-far-from-stock machine.

Videos Available on Jalopnik's Blog, HERE.

January 26, 2008

2010 Mustang Drawing

[Via Mustang.com]
Written by Ford Racing


Could this be the 2010 Mustang? One of our readers thinks that this is probably what the next major uplift of the our favorite pony car will look like. What do you think? Leave a comment or question in the comments section, please.

January 24, 2008

2008 Ford Mustang "Dream" Commercial

[Via AutoBlog]
By: Chris Shunk


With all the hype surrounding the upcoming production versions of the Dodge Challenger and Chevy Camaro, it's easy to forget that the Mustang is still king of the hill when it comes to pony car sales. We've had the very competent current model since Fall 2004, while any competition continues to be stuck in future-tense. Even without any direct competition, Ford has stayed on top of its RWD V8 American icon, and the 2+2 pony car is still the stuff of dreams. The marketing geeks at Ford picked up on the phenomenon, and the result is a :30 spot with some lucky Joe performing power slides and donuts in a red Mustang GT while the fuzz give him the thumbs-up. Ford added a hot brunette driving a Mustang convertible for good measure, and you've got the ideal REM of many-a-man.

January 23, 2008

NBC Knight Rider: Premieres Sunday, February 17th @ 9/8 Central

[Via NBC]


Here at Ford Mustang, we're just counting down the days until the premiere... can't wait to see the GT500KR in action. VROOOM VROOOM!!!!

CNN: "Addicted to the Rush of the Race"

[Via Jalopnik & CNN]



Jalopnik today had a report / coverage of this CNN article, "CNN All Up In Grill of Street Racing" which I highly recommend for pleasure reading. What a laugh. The original story, via CNN is below. A good read, nonetheless.



CNN: Addicted to the rush of the race"
By: Brad Lendon

* Story Highlights
* Illegal racing at "ridiculous" levels in U.S., one law enforcement official says
* No national database to track street racing arrests
* Street racers say they're drawn by adrenalin rush
* Police struggle to find appropriate deterrents

January 22, 2008

Fast and the Furious: London Pursuit - News!

[Via MustangEvolution]
By: Brent Wilson



It usually takes days, weeks, and sometimes months to create a show vehicle, but the San Diego-based Stangpede Mustang club has set out to prove otherwise. In front of a live audience at the 2008 San Diego International Auto Show, the Stangpede team transformed a stock 2008 Ford Mustang GT into full-blown show car in exactly six hours.
Stangpede Built :Fast & Furious 4″ Mustang. Click images for more high resolution pictures.

This wasn’t the first time that Stangpede has built a Mustang show car - they have previously built vehicles at auto shows in Orange County and Las Vegas as well as last year in San Diego. However, this build was somewhat different because the newly-modified Mustang will be featured in the upcoming Fast and Furious 4 movie. “We love having a live audience watch us build Mustangs, but this car is extra special because millions of people will see it,” said Ernie Sigala, Club President of Stangpede. The completed Mustang will appear in the movie with the Stangpede banner and will also appear at shows across the country.

The build-up was done using the very best aftermarket products available for the Mustang. The Stangpede team added an LNR body kit from Blow-By Racing, TruFiber GTS hood, Saleen 550-hp supercharger system, suspension and brakes, MAC full exhaust system, Classic Design Concepts Glassback roof, and a vertical door kit from Vertical Doors, Inc. Several sponsors took the extra step and even helped out with the build. Chris Jones, owner of Blow-By Racing helped install the supercharger, and Mac Jones Jr. of MAC Performance took on the installation of the exhaust system. DiabloSport co-owner George Najarian was on hand to tune the car using a Predator tuner, and Brad Diez from Speedzone Paint and Bodyworks was present to make sure the Mustang’s Candy Apple Red paint remained spotless. NOS Energy Drinks provided plenty of beverages to keep the team energized during the build. “We had tremendous support from our sponsors and couldn’t have done it without them,” said Sigala.



You can check out what the car is made out of by reading up on their impressive list of sponsors:

* Legacy Entertainment: Owners of 2008 Mustang GT
* Blow-By Racing: LNR body kit
* TruFiber: GTS ram-air hood
* Saleen: 550-hp supercharger kit, 20-inch wheels, Racecraft suspension with watts-link, shocks, springs, and sway bars, 15-inch brakes, Speedlab carbon fiber racing seats
* MAC Performance: Complete exhaust system include shorty headers, h-pipe, and side exhaust kit, chrome radiator cover, chrome fuse box cover
* Classic Design Concepts: Glassback roof, deck lid trim panel, dynamite sequential taillights, hood pin appearance kit, hood struts, detail corral
* SS Inserts: Under-hood stainless hardware kit, 8-inch fixed black antenna, billet chrome fuel door, polished stainless interior trim pieces, stainless steel license plate and frame
* Vertical Doors, Inc: Vertical door kit
* Kustom Shop: Candy Apple “Legacy” Red paint
* Hardcore Mustangs: Pre-show preparation of Mustang
* DiabloSport: Predator custom tuning
* Killer Glass: Borosilicate glass radiator hose
* >Modern Image: Vinyl decals
* Aces Land and Sea: Fuel and oil catalyst
* Speedzone Paint and Bodyworks: Painting and buffing
* Mechanix Wear: Work gloves for build
* Lucas Oil

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Also Recommended: See Jalopnik for their coverage!
And! Mustang Evolution has a full gallery HERE.

New Knight Rider Clip On E! News Daily

Well, I'm pretty psyched for the new TV series / movie, whatever NBC is doing. I can't wait to see the GT500KR in action, cruising for a bruising. Here's the latest find off YouTube about the new remake of the series. Too bad its just so little footage of the car itself. Arrgh.

January 20, 2008

Barrett-Jackson: Shelby Cobra 427 Sold For $625,000

[Via Jalopnik]
By: Ray Wert


A Shelby Cobra 427 frame-up, concours quality restoration with a sideoiler 427 engine. 11,000 original miles. Never raced. Has the Sunburst wheels with original Blue Dot tires and a spare set of wheels and tires -- and it just sold for $625,000 at the Barrett-Jackson to some guy on the interwebs.

Barrett-Jackson: First 2008 Shelby GT500KR Goes For $550,000

[Via Jalopnik]
By: Ray Wert



The one-off glass-roofed 2008 Shelby GT500KR that's the first off the we showed you this past week, just went for a final sale price of $550,000 after bidding started at a mere $100,000. This despite a custom Fender Stratocaster with a pretty matte black case and all the money going to Edsel Ford's juvenile diabetes charity. We're a wee bit underwhelmed -- despite Dr. McDreamy driving it up to the auction block. OK, we're kidding -- nowe we're wondering what this bodes for the 2008 Dodge Challenger SRT8 #01 that'll be hitting the auction block shortly as the Muscle Car Wars continue to heat up. Maybe if they'd offered it up with Will Arnett it might've made a bigger difference. Nah, probably not. Full BJ from BJ after the jump. Oh, and you want to know who bought it? That's right -- Ron Pratte. That man loves Carroll Shelby.

For the first time in the nearly 40 years, Ford Motor Company and Shelby Automobiles are partnering to build the Shelby GT500 KR in 2008. This new model of the popular Ford Mustang represents a new chapter in the history of the Ford Mustang and the Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction. When unveiled at the New York Autoshow in 2007, the car became an instant classic. On January 19th, the first GT500 KR offered for sale to the public will roll across the auction block. This 540hp limited edition Mustang will be one of approximately 1,000 built and the first and only car offered with a new "segment exclusive" feature that will be unveiled during the auction. All proceeds from the sale of this car will be donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Over the last three years Ford and Barrett-Jackson have raised over $1.8 million dollars for charity through the auction of Ford Motor Company Products. This new model will give the winning bidder an opportunity to contribute to a worthy cause while making automotive history.

January 19, 2008

Carroll Shelby's Personal 1969 GT500 Coming to Barrett-Jackson Auction Block

[Via AutoBlog]
By Chris Shunk

Carroll Shelby's 1969 Shelby GT500



Carroll Shelby's personal GT500 coming to Barrett Jackson


When the GT500 KR was unveiled at New York this past spring, we pressed Ford's SVT team as to why the SVT badging was absent from their creation. Their answer was so simple and obvious that it bears repeating. A 500 HP SVT Mustang doesn't sell for $30,000 over invoice, but if you add Carroll Shelby's name to it, a killer car becomes an instant sensation. Much of the street cred Shelby currently has was earned during the 1960s, when Carroll took the Mustang from a "secretary's car" to a hot-rod pony car.

Mr. Shelby is apparently too caught up living in the present to give much thought to what he did 40 years ago, as he plans on putting his 1969 Shelby GT500 convertible up for auction in January at Barrett Jackson. The vintage hotrod, which has nearly 70,000 miles on the odometer, is sure to fetch quite a premium over an already valuable '69 owned by some lucky schlep. The great-looking collectible is powered by a 428 Cobra Jet engine and has recently undergone a restoration. If you want to get in on the bidding action, make sure to get a lean on your mortgage, or just show up rich. It's gonna fetch a bundle.

[Source: Shelby via Jalopnik]



[Via Jalopnik]

Carroll Shelby's Personal GT-500 to Be Auctioned Off


With Shelby-mania still at a fever pitch, we can imagine it's getting harder and harder for the uber-wealthy car collector to show up fellow affluent auto aficionados. Thus, we present Carroll Shelby's own 1969 Shelby GT500 convertible. Mr. Shelby apparently drove it extensively, putting nearly 69,725 miles on the 428 Cobra Jet-powered beauty. The car was recently renovated and even comes with an AM-FM stereo radio! The car goes up at the Scottsdale Barrett-Jackson event next January with no reserve, so make sure to bring a checkbook and an extra kidney.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRESS RELEASE

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - October 26, 2007 - Carroll Shelby will sell his 1969 GT500 convertible, which he has owned since it was new, at No Reserve during the 37th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event on Jan. 12-20, 2008, in Scottsdale, Ariz. It is the only Ford-based Shelby Mustang that he has owned continually since it rolled off the assembly line. The historic muscle car will be showcased during the SEMA show in Las Vegas from Tuesday, Oct. 30 - Friday, Nov. 2, 2007, in the Barrett-Jackson booth (#20765), located in the "Racing and Performance" area of Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

"Barrett-Jackson attracts the most important collector cars because it is the greatest stage in the world to buy and sell these fantastic pieces of history," said Barrett-Jackson Auction Company Chairman/CEO Craig Jackson. "Last year, we sold the only 427 Shelby Cobra built specifically for Carroll in Scottsdale and now we have the only Shelby Mustang that he's owned for the past three decades. This is an opportunity to be the second owner of a premier car and purchase it from the man himself on the weekend we celebrate his 85th birthday. This special car will also be a highlight of our SEMA display, which will be more impressive than ever this year."

One of only 246 Ford Shelby GT500 convertibles built in 1969, Mr. Shelby's personal 428 c.i.d. Cobra Jet powered car has only 69,725 miles and came originally equipped with automatic transmission, GT equipment group, white interior and top, intermittent wipers, power steering, power brakes, tilt steering, factory A/C, AM-FM stereo radio, tachometer and trip odometer.

The red convertible was recently restored under the direction of Stephen Becker, a world-renowned collector and broker of vintage Shelby Cobras, GT350s and GT500s. Becker engaged well known and respected Shelby restorer Jim Cowles at Shelby Parts & Restoration in Green Bay, Wisc., to complete a Concours rotisserie freshening of the car.

"The only other Shelby that Carroll has owned longer than this GT500 is the first Cobra, CSX2000," noted Steve Davis, President of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company. "With its recent restoration by one of the premier shops in the country, this historical GT500 would be a monumental acquisition for any serious collector."

Another car slated for the Barrett-Jackson auction block in Scottsdale that will be featured at SEMA is the one-off 1963 Corvette "Rondine," which will be staged in the AutoWeek booth (#20715). The Pininfarina-bodied concept car was designed by Tom Tjaarda and unveiled at the 1963 Paris Auto Show. Barrett-Jackson will also sponsor the Overhaulin' Studio, where they will display three Scottsdale-bound cars in the silver lot.

"SEMA is a haven for gearheads and the industry's most influential players, making it the ideal venue to showcase our lineup for Scottsdale," added Davis. "Barrett-Jackson has taken enormous strides in the past few months to further establish our position as the world's leading producer of collector car auctions."

January 18, 2008

Ford Saleen SA-25 Sterling Edition Mustang (Pictures Update)

[Via AutoBlog]



As part of celebrating Saleens' 25th Anniversary, there is a new Sterling Edition; pretty, isn't it? There are more special editions Mustangs than you can shake a wrench at, but of all the variants we've seen so far, the Saleen SA-25 Sterling Edition is one of our favorites. Not only does it take all the attributes of the stock model and accentuates them, the SA-25's supercharged V8 comes packing 620 hp and 600 lb.-ft. of torque. The power matches the poise. Check out the pictures and AutoBlog's photos HERE.


Also Recommended: Saleen, Inc. [Official Saleen Website]

January 17, 2008

Saleen Celebrates 25th Anniversary With SA-25 Sterling Edition Mustang

[Via AutoBlog]
By Drew Phillips

It's hard to believe that it's been 25 years since Steve Saleen first founded Saleen Autosport. The company has made a profound impact on the Mustang world since then, producing some of the highest performing Mustangs on the market. The company has a tradition of producing limited-edition anniversary models, starting with the SA-5 Mustang in 1988, the SA-10 in 1993, SA-15 in 1998, and most recently the SA-20 in 2003. That time has rolled around again, and Saleen has announced the SA-25 Sterling Edition Mustang.


Based on the S302 Extreme, the Sterling Edition gets the same supercharged V8 pushing out 620 horsepower and 600 lb-ft torque. Visually separating it from the standard version are unique 5-spoke forged wheels, handpainted "Gun Sight" racing stripes and anniversary fender badges. In addition to the standard Saleen interior upgrades, the Sterling Edition gets a push-button electric start, Black Diamond alcantara seats with leather accents, a navigation system and a serialized center plaque. Buyers will also get luxury treatment, including a first class flight to Detroit, limo transportation to and from the airport, dinner with Saleen executives, a hosted tour of the Saleen plant, and a custom leather jacket among other things. Only 25 will be built at a price of $99,995. It's definitely not for the typical Mustang buyer, but we're sure there are several Saleen faithful out there who will want one in the garage.


[Source: Saleen]

Barrett-Jackson: Ford, Shelby to Auction One-Off Glass-Roof Shelby GT500KR on Saturday

[Via Jalopnik]


Looks like Ford's puckering up to take on every inch of the big B-J auction this weekend in Scottsdale, Arizona. Highlighting their car-love for the weekend will be their auction of a one-of-a-kind 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR with one of them new-fangled Mustang glass roods everyone's been talking about. We would like to thank Ford for claiming their rightful place in the lead of the "muscle car wars" -- but we would like to remind them, as we reminded Dodge a month or so ago, that the use of our trademark and patent-pending term is exclusively prohibited. So pay up. We'll take cash, or a GT500KR of our own. Don't make us call our lawyers and get all cease-and-desist on your non-independent rear suspensions. Also, Pontiac may have something to say about headlining the press release with driving being in any way exciting.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


ONE-OF-A-KIND 2008 FORD SHELBY GT500KR DRIVES EXCITEMENT AT BARRETT-JACKSON AUCTION ON SATURDAY

* Ford and Shelby Automobiles to auction one-off Shelby GT500KR featuring a full glass roof to benefit Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation
* Ford Racing and Patrick Dempsey to auction off his No. 156 Ford Mustang FR500C, which the star raced in the Grand-Am KONI Challenge series

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Jan. 17, 2008 - A one-of-a-kind 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR will go on the block at this year's Barrett-Jackson auction: the only "King of the Road" model to feature a full glass roof. Continuing a Ford and Shelby tradition of charitable giving, proceeds from the auction will benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

"Barrett-Jackson is an ideal venue to launch and sell Ford's premier models," said Robert Parker, Ford car marketing manager. "It's the ultimate platform for selling the world's most remarkable cars, and we've created a unique GT500KR just for the occasion."

Barrett-Jackson will feature an unprecedented stable of muscle cars, led by a vintage Mustang from each year in which performance legend Carroll Shelby and Ford Motor Company produced the street-ripping 1960s classics. The highlight of the crop will be Mr. Shelby's personal 1969 GT500 convertible, followed by a pristine 1967 GT500 originally gifted by Carroll to his son, Mike Shelby.

Muscle car enthusiasts are sure to tune in on SPEED TV this Saturday to watch Ford continue to lead the muscle car wars.


Shelby GT500KR with Glass Roof

The 540-horsepower Shelby GT500KR on the block at Barrett-Jackson is a unique rendition of the most powerful factory-built Mustang ever. Shelby GT500KR production began in Las Vegas on Jan. 11, Carroll Shelby's 85th birthday. The one-of-one ebony black GT500KR up for auction will feature the same full glass roof that is being offered as an option on the 2009 V-6 Mustang and Mustang GT models only.

The glass roof provides a third roof option for customers and responds to their growing desire for more natural light. The glass is tinted, which reduces both infrared rays and vehicle cool down time by 50 percent. Production of large sunroofs has increased nearly 200 percent in North America since 2003, according to Just-autos.com.

While the Shelby GT500KR coupe features racing stripes over the roof, the unique glass roof on the auction model features stripes etched directly into the glass.

"Barrett-Jackson will be a rare opportunity for one lucky bidder to own a Shelby GT500KR with a glass roof, a car no one else can even buy," said Carroll Shelby. "It's been too long, but I'm very excited to have the 'King of the Road' back."

"Only Ford Motor Company and Shelby American have sold more genuine Ford-powered Shelby vehicles than the Barrett-Jackson auction over the past 35 years," said Craig Jackson, president and CEO of the Barrett-Jackson Auction Co. "I'm proud that Ford and Carroll Shelby chose to sell a one-of-a-kind 2008 Shelby GT500KR coupe at our auction, where only the finest, authentic Shelby vehicles are offered to the public."

Patrick Dempsey's Ford Mustang FR500C on the Block Saturday

In another exciting development, Ford Racing and Patrick Dempsey, the star of ABC's "Grey's Anatomy," also will auction the actor's No. 156 2005 Ford Mustang FR500C.

Dempsey drove the car in the 2007 Grand-Am KONI Challenge series for Hyper Sport Racing, a team he co-owns. Since its debut in 2005, the Mustang FR500C has earned seven poles, 10 wins, 92 top ten finishes and 25 podium appearances. Featuring a Ford Racing 5.0-liter Cammer R50 engine, it continues to be the road racing car of choice.

Dempsey will be on stage as bidders vie for this unique race Mustang. The winning bidder also will also receive a helmet, gloves, shoes, hero card and DVD box set of the third season of "Grey's Anatomy" signed by Dempsey. In addition, the winner will enjoy a track day with Hyper Sport Racing and a day for two at the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT.

Ford Exhibit Celebrates Speed

Building on a valued partnership, Ford plans to remain a key automotive sponsor of The Barrett-Jackson Auction series as a third venue is added in Las Vegas this October. As part of this sponsorship, Ford will bring interactive elements to Barrett-Jackson, including a drifting track, racing simulators and a dyno-simulated drag racing display.

This year, Ford will add a life-size Mustang collector's display which showcases a 'Steed for Every Need,' along with a new "Built Ford Tough" tent that houses Ford's feature vehicles. Consumers also can look forward to a few surprises. "We have found that experiential elements allow us to create a lot of memories for our current and future customers," said Parker.

Ford, Barrett-Jackson and Shelby: $1.7 Million Raised for Charity

During the past three years, Ford and Carroll Shelby have raised more than $1.7 million dollars for charity. Last year, the first 2007 Shelby GT Mustang was auctioned off at a winning big of $600,000. In 2006, an early production 2007 Shelby GT500 also sold for $600,000.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 250,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.ford.com.

About JDRF

JDRF was founded in 1970 by the parents of children with type 1 diabetes - a disease that strikes children, adolescents, and adults suddenly, makes them insulin-dependent for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating complications. Since inception, JDRF has provided more than $1.16 billion to diabetes research worldwide. More than 85 percent of JDRF's expenditures directly support research and research-related education. JDRF's mission is constant: to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research. For more information please visit www.jdrf.org

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

For More Information, Please See The Official Barrett-Jackson Website.

Offbeat News: Black Mustang Club - Ford & Black Mustang Club Calendar Fair Usage


"Black Mustang Club Tussles, Then Makes Nice With Ford Over Fair Use"
[Via Jalopnik 1/17/08 1:15 PM]

By: Ben Wojdyla

Sometimes mountains and molehills are made of both made of thin air. A couple of weeks ago the Ford Mustang enthusiasts site "Black Mustang Club" was contacted by their publisher, Cafepress, regarding the calender they were about to publish. The club owners had compiled a 12 month calender of pictures of their rides and intended to sell them to any takers. Cafepress notified the club of contact from Ford lawyers regarding possible trademark infringement. Normally this is where we'd raise a stink about missed marketing opportunities and botched brand management. In this instance though it seems that what happened was a case of the telephone game going awry.

Below is the initial entry from the BMC site, bmcforums.com bemoaning the apparent cease and desist from Ford.

BMC 2008 Calendar NOT Available Due to Ford Motor Company I got some more info from the folks at cafepress and according to them, a law firm representing Ford contacted them saying that our calendar pics (and our club's event logos - anything with one of our cars in it) infringes on Ford's trademarks which include the use of images of THEIR vehicles. Also, Ford claims that all the images, logos and designs OUR graphics team made for the BMC events using Danni are theirs as well. Funny, I thought Danni's title had my name on it ... and I thought you guys owned your cars ... and, well ... I'm not even going to get into how wrong and unfair I feel this whole thing is as I'd be typing for hours, but I wholeheartedly echo everything you guys have been saying all afternoon. I'm not letting this go un-addressed and I'll keep you guys posted as I get to work on this.
I'm sorry, but at this point we will not be producing the 2008 BMC Calendar, featuring our 2007 Members of the Month, solely due to Ford Motor Company's claim that THEY own all rights to the photos YOU take of YOUR car. I hope to resolve this soon, and be able to provide the calendar and other BMC merchandise that you guys want and deserve! This thread will remain open for you to comment however you wish, and I'll update it as needed.

Thanks for all your support of the BMC!!

However, this is not the end of the story. Our sister site Consumerist got a hold of the story and made a big stink about it (as those cranky nerds over there are wont to do). Eventually it made it to Whitney Drake from Ford Communications. We spoke with Whitney at the Firehouse the other day and she was still flummoxed over the whole thing, but glad that it had been resolved. She pointed us to her response on Consumerist:
My name is Whitney Drake and I work in Ford Communications. We've been watching this discussion with interest and I'd like to clarify what is essentially a misunderstanding.
Yesterday we spoke to both Cafe Press and the Black Mustang Club and explained the situation (about the Black Mustang Club's calendar) to everyone's satisfaction. Ford has no problem with Mustang or other car owners taking pictures of their vehicles for use in club materials like calendars. What we do have an issue with are individuals using Ford's logo and other trademarks for products they intend to sell. Understandably, we have to take the protection of our brands and licensing very seriously.

Ford did not send the Black Mustang Club a "cease and desist" letter telling them that they could not use images of their own cars in their calendar. The decision not to allow the calendars to be printed was made by Cafe Press, because we had gotten in touch with them in the past about trademark infringements on products they sold.

I think it is great that the Black Mustang Club, and any other enthusiast club, would take pictures of their own vehicles for use in calendars or other materials.

I'm looking forward to purchasing a copy to hang in the garage next to my Mustang (even if mine isn't black).

Thanks for giving us the chance to have our say.

It's good to see that both sides have worked things out and it was just a misunderstanding to begin with. BMC is once again offering their calendars for sale (and they are definitely chock full of black Mustang-ness). You can check out the calendar on their site at bmcforums.com

UPDATE: 2008 BMC Calendars WILL Be Available
[Via BlackMustangClub]

BMC Calendars: Approved by Ford & For Sale!

*** THANK YOU FORD ***

Get rid of those CENSOR graphics ... the calendar issue (and rights to print images of our own vehicles) has been resolved. After hearing from a few members of the Ford marketing and communications team, I have Ford approval to proceed with printing our 2008 calendar as-is as well as use Danni (and our other vehicles) in BMC logos and all the club marketing materials we have been thus far.

The 2008 BMC Calendar featuring the Members of the Month from 2007 is now on sale! I will not be using Cafepress for printing our calendar or any other materials as (1) they have not yet released our calendar for printing as (2) they are not compliant with Ford, and I do not want to support them for that reason. If you wish to order the now-famous calendar, please ORDER HERE through our own online store, and the calendars will ship in approximately 10 days.

Also, just as you emailed Ford, posted on your local forums and spread the word about this issue when it first arose, PLEASE follow-up with a 'thank you' email to Ford, and PLEASE post a link to this new thread on ALL the forums who have been discussing this issue. I appreciate Ford, and want to be sure we get the positive word out now that this is resolved.

Special thank you to Whitney, who has joined our forums and sent the following message:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
My name is Whitney Drake and I work in Ford Communications.
We've been watching this discussion with interest and I'd like to
clarify what is essentially a misunderstanding.

Yesterday we spoke to both Cafe Press and the Black Mustang Club
and explained the situation (about the Black Mustang Club’s calendar) to everyone's satisfaction. Ford has no problem with Mustang or other car owners taking pictures of their vehicles for use in club materials like calendars. What we do have an issue with are individuals using Ford’s logo and other trademarks for products they intend to sell. Understandably, we have to take the protection of our brands and licensing very seriously.

Ford did not send the Black Mustang Club a “cease and desist” letter telling them that they could not use images of their own cars in their calendar. The decision not to allow the calendars to be printed was made by Cafe Press, because we had gotten in touch with them in the past about trademark infringements on products they sold.

The Black Mustang Club, and any other Ford enthusiast club, are free to take pictures of their own vehicles for use in calendars or other materials as long as they don't use Ford trademarks in products that will be sold.

I think it is great that the Black Mustang Club, and any other enthusiast club, would take pictures of their own vehicles for use in calendars or other materials.

I'm looking forward to purchasing a copy to hang in the garage next
to my Mustang (even if mine isn't black).

Thanks for giving us the chance to have our say.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please take a moment to send Whitney an e-gift here through the forums to thank her for working with us to get this resolved, and for wanting the calendar, too! She's been a great help and I'll continue to work with Whitney and the Ford team, so welcome her to the BMC family!

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me directly. I'm enjoyed hearing from all of you who have written with words of encouragement and support. Thank you very much for greatly extending the BMC family this week!

Lisa | BMC Founder
blackmustangclub@gmail.com


P.S. You should seriously consider ordering a calendar HERE.

New NBC Knight Rider Commercial - Valet Parking Guy Gets Pwned

[Via Knight Rider Online]



[Via AutoBlog]

Something tells me the commercials for the new Knight Rider are going to be better than the show they're pimping, but we can hold out hope, however slim it may be. This week's new TV spot features lead character Mercury Mike Tracer as he drops off KITT in front of a valet parking stand, rendering an eager parking attendant speechless. No GT500KR joyride for you, dude.



See also Jalopnik if you want a third opinion, HERE.

January 16, 2008

Down The Road: Spotted On The Streets!

Ford Mustang Shelby Cobra GT500

Ain't she a beauty... I drove past this car today at the local Ford dealership... I can't get it out of my head. It was just siting outside. I really just wanted to run up to it and hug it, maybe take a few pictures of my own.


What a car BEAST. I want it.

Steeda QS6 Mustang 2008

[Via Steeda Autosports]



The Steeda QS6 Mustang is best described by deciphering its nomenclature in detail:

“Q” – Quick
“S” – Supercharged induction
“6” – V6 powered

A performance orientated V6 Mustang with nimble handling attributable to it’s near perfect 50/50 weight distribution and the famed Steeda Autosports performance suspension, this performance V6 powered Mustang really delivers performance for those that prefer a V6 powered car.

The secret to its outstanding success is it’s positive displacement Roots-type supercharger specially tuned for the 4.0l V6 engine. This supercharger provides much more power at lower speeds than what the competitor’s centrifugal superchargers can deliver, resulting in a lightweight pony that can really deliver the excitement when you want it. With a total of 355 horsepower and 365 ft. lbs. of torque available at your command, there is ample power available to blast out of the corners as others are waiting for their supercharges to build boost with engine speed.

The Steeda Q-Series of Mustangs underscores the commitment that Steeda Autosports has made to consistently deliver the best possible performance and value to the Ford performance enthusiast.

Steeda - Where Speed Matters!

Steeda Autosports Official Press Release



[Via Mustang Evolution]

The Steeda Q-Series of Mustangs underscores the commitment that Steeda Autosports has made to consistently deliver the best possible performance and value to the Ford performance enthusiast. Steeda Autosports has been in business nearly 20 years with no disruption, and with our major facility expansion currently underway, we are guaranteed to be your best source for exclusive limited edition serialized Ford performance vehicles and Ford performance parts and accessories for the foreseeable future.



Already have a V6 Mustang and want to add some excitement into your life? Then the same world-class performance parts that the Steeda Autosports Team has developed for the Steeda QS6 are available for you to purchase and add to your car as your time and budget permits. Start with our proprietary suspension upgrade package that will give you the best possible handling available today with out sacrificing ride quality, add a set of Steeda wheels and Nitto Performance tires that could reduce your unsprung weight and will definitely provide maximum grip, throw on a cold air induction system to let your engine breath, and then a performance Steeda cat-back exhaust to let those spent gasses out of your engine and make the “right sound” and you have a ride that provides more excitement than what is imaginable from a V6 powered Mustang.



Still wanting more power? Then bolt on a the Steeda approved supercharger system to really wake up your ride with 355 horsepower and 365 ft. lbs. of torque and have the best of both worlds: fuel economy when you want it, and all out performance when you need it! How does it do it? Simply – This supercharger system makes 70% of its boost at only 1800 RPM. The result is excellent low to mid range power and throttle response with a strong top end. Performance is outstanding - and throttle response is fantastic. The efficient by-pass system allows no-boost cruising, and the supercharger needs only 3 horsepower to drive it while the by-pass valve is open. Fuel economy is similar to stock. Plus these superchargers are very quiet and require no maintenance for 100,000 miles.



Bottom line: You can add our track tested parts and accessories to your car and see the difference over all of our competitors. You can build the car you want, according to your schedule and budget, and get the results you have come to expect from Steeda: World class performance and value engineered in the USA for the Ford performance enthusiast.

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Recommended: Also see TheMustangNews for more information as well.

January 15, 2008

New NBC Knight Rider Teaser Trailer

[Via YouTube]

Already looks amazing. 550 HP. Standard. (Well, maybe if you can get your hands on the GT500KR model). Hah. Hopefully much more news in a week. Already some news at Detroit Auto Show 2008 below. Keep your eyes open for more later on.



Counting down till February...


Vroom vrooom...

The $3 Million 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake

[Via Mustang Evolution]


With the upcoming release of the Shelby GT500 Super Snake many people will have an opportunity to put on of these limited edition Shelby’s inside their garage. It’s quite the opposite for the 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake as the person who wins this ebay auction for the only 1967 Shelby GT500 Super Snake ever produced will have the ultimate limited edition Mustang. The 1967 Shelby Super Snake sports a 427ci V8 with 520 horsepower, a 170 mph top speed and unique triple stripes. The ebay auction is set to end in a week.



Ebay Link HERE
1967 Shelby
Shelby GT500 Super Snake The original "one of one"

Vehicle Description

This is the original SuperSnake built in 1967 by Shelby. Shelby built two Cobra SuperSnakes and one GT500 SuperSnake. This is the GT500 SuperSnake. One of the Cobra SuperSnake's recently sold for over 5mil. Well know car with well known history. There are no other ones so if you want the best for your collection you have no others to choose from. This GT500 Is probably the king of all Shelby Mustangs. A normal GT500 has a 428 rated at 355 hp. This car was built at Shelby with a aluminum headed 427 rated at 520 hp. The same engine used in the GT40's that won LeMans. There is a movie from 1967 with Carroll Shelby and his chief engineer Fred Goodell driving this car for a Goodyear tire test and they set a record that day by going 500 miles at a average speed of 142 mph. At one point he was supposedly clocked at 170 mph. The movie can be seen at www.supersnake.org as well as a TV interview about the car with chief engineer Goodell. Featured on page 615 of the Shelby American World Registry. The idea was to build 50 of these cars but at a price of 7500.00 it was just too expensive so only one was built. A 427 Cobra could be bought for less. Many unique features such as it's trademark three stripes. The web site listed has pics of many of the unique features. I believe this is the only Shelby Mustang in 1967 painted with stripes at Shelby. The new 2008 GT500 SuperSnake uses the stripes and name based on this car. Featured in many many books and magazines over the years. Featured on Dreamcar Garage, My Classic Car etc. The video of Carroll driving it in 1967 at www.supersnake.org is well worth watching. This is not someones dolled up fake, this is the real car with plenty of real documentaion.I have a vision of the car in a museum with a large version of the 1967 video playing on a wall behind it.The buyer of the car can also have the website if he or she wishes. My hope is the car goes to a museum or someone that will continue to share it with the public.