Our friends over at Tjin Edition gave us some teasers today on a pair of Ford vehicles that they’re currently building for the upcoming SEMA Show. This year, Tjin Edition has teamed up with Ford to build out a Mustang GT 5.0 and an Explorer, with the Mustang being a follow up to last year’s Ford Fiesta UTI Sweepstakes car. That means the 2012 Tjin Edition Ford Mustang will be built in collaboration with UTI and given away later next year.

The Tjin Edition 2012 Ford Explorer will feature a custom Dupont paint job by LR Auto Body, set off by a set of 24-inch iForged Concave wheels wrapped with Falken rubber. Eibach Suspension will give it a lower stance while bigger Baer brakes gives the Explorer improved braking performance and rotors that won’t look minuscule behind the massive 24-inch wheels. On the inside, Tjin Edition outfits the Explorer with black leather interior and a pair of Recaro child seats, while a Thule bike rack will sit up top.

The giveaway Mustang will also sport a bright orange Dupont paint job by LR Auto Body, 20-inch Forgestar wheels, Baer big brakes and a ton of extra performance thanks to a Paxton Supercharger. Needless to say the Mustang will also get a custom interior. More details on the Mustang’s giveaway will be released at SEMA.

Tjin Edition also teased to us that these aren’t the only two vehicles they’ll be working on for SEMA. Rumor has it there will be a couple of GM creations and a collaboration on a Honda project.

GALLERY: Tjin Edition Ford SEMA Vehicles

It was just a matter of time before the new generation Ford 5.0 Coyote powerplant (from the 2011 Ford Mustang GT) found its way into the original 5.0 Ford Mustang Fox Body. We’re actually surprised it has taken as long as it has, but Kurgan Motorsports has done a very clean swap into their Fox Body project. Blending tradition with modern technology, the result is a “friggin’ animal on the streets” according to Bob Kurgan himself.

Obviously the swap wasn’t a straight drop-in, even though the motor fit in quite snug in the older-generation Mustang’s engine bay. Kurgan Motorsports fabricated custom motor mounts, air conditioning brackets and power steering brackets. We’re going to safely assume there was a bit more than that involved in getting it all to work and fire up, but we’re glad someone now has a formula for success.

You’d think with 412-hp and 390 ft-lbs of torque in the lighter Fox Body Mustang that it would be more than enough. But the horsepower freaks at Kurgan are already planning to outfit the 5.0 with a supercharger. And if you’re interested? Kurgan is currently working with Ford to do a complete Coyote 5.0 swap at Carlisle Ford Nationals later this year and plans to start offering swap kits to the public.

[Source: StangTV]

GALLERY: Kurgan Motorsports Coyote-Swapped Fox Body Mustang

A tip given to Jalopnik states that Ford chairman Bill Ford Jr. confirmed that an Ecoboost engine will appear in the Mustang, although a timeline and engine specifications were not provided.

While speaking at Princeton University, Ford was asked by an audience member about the possibility of an Ecoboost Mustang. Ford confirmed that the turbocharged engine would reach Ford’s pony car, but no further information was revealed. Ford current Ecoboost 4-cylinder is capable of up to 247 horsepower, while the 3.5L Ecoboost V6 is good for as much as 365 horsepower. While power is somewhat diminished compared to larger V6 and V8 engines respectively, fuel economy figures make up for the performance deficit.

It’s conceivable that either application could find its way under the hood of a Mustang. A 4-cylinder Ecoboost would be a potent competitor to smaller engined cars like the Hyundai Genesis (and certainly the Mustang V6 is now a legitimate performance car in its own right), while an Ecoboost V6 could bridge the gap between the regular V6 and the 5.0 V8. Jalopnik has suggested that the “SVO” trim, which used a 2.3L turbo 4-cylinder in the 1980s, could return, but there’s little evidence to back up that notion. Then again, Ford did revive the 5.0 badge, and with children of the 1980s now in a position to buy a Mustang, it might just happen.

[Source: Jalopnik]

The Ford Mustang Boss 302 will start at a base price of $40,995, placing it between the already excellent Ford Mustang 5.0 and the over-the-top Ford Shelby GT500.

Buyers will be able to choose from options like a Torsen limited slip differential, Recaro seats and special paintwork. The Laguna Seca, package, which eliminates the rear seats and adds a number of track-ready modifications, will retail for $47,990.

While the Boss 302 is a lot of money for a Mustang, the sheer competence of the new pony cars leads us to believe that this one will be worth every penny.

[Source: Autoblog]

The Roush Shelby Mustang SR-71 has finally been officially revealed, and the car looks, well, just like the concept renderings we brought you not long ago. With a supercharged 5.0L V8, full Recaro bucket seats, a custom paint job and a Ford Racing handling pack, this one-off Mustang is like nothing else ever produced. The vehicle will be auctioned off for charity Thursday, July 29th at 7:30 PM (Central Time) at the EAA Museum in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. All proceeds benefit EAA’s (Experimental Aircraft Association) Young Eagles program, a foundation that Ford has supported for the past 15 years.

Gallery: Roush Shelby Mustang SR-71

Hit the jump to read the official press release

[Source: Motorwad]

Two automotive icons, legendary racer and manufacturer Carroll Shelby, and world-renowned racer, engineer and designer Jack Roush, have come together in their first vehicle collaboration project to join Ford in creating a one-off 2011Mustang, the aviation themed SR-71 “Blackbird.” The one-of-a-kind vehicle will be sold at the Gathering of Eagles July 29 during the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) 2010 AirVenture Oshkosh, the world’s greatest aviation celebration. Ford is the exclusive automotive partner of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh and all of the proceeds from the sale will benefit the EAA Young Eagles organization. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh will be held from July 26 to Aug. 1 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis.

The “SR-71” designation holds a dual meaning for the one-of-a-kind, fully-customized Mustang. First, “SR-71” refers to the car’s design and performance-inspired connection with the SR-71 Blackbird, the aircraft that holds all official airspeed and altitude records and is widely regarded as one of the most spectacular planes ever produced. Second, “SR” represents the first collaborative project between Shelby and Roush. Mustang Chief Designer Darrell Behmer led design for the project and Mustang Chief Nameplate Engineer Dave Pericak led the engineering effort. Ford Racing Performance Parts were also added to further enhance the exclusivity of the car. The sale of the SR-71 “Blackbird” will highlight an evening of festivities at the EAA Gathering of Eagles July 29 during AirVenture.

The group that will directly benefit from the auction proceeds is EAA’s Young Eagles, which has provided free introductory flights to more than 1.5 million young people since 1992, while also teaching the value of hard work, personal responsibility and enhanced math and science skills. “Ford Motor Company’s historic tie to aviation is no better represented than by the company’s commitment as a continued partner of EAA and AirVenture, a celebration of flight here in Oshkosh that is unmatched anywhere else in the world,” said Tom Poberezny, EAA chairman and president. “Ford’s generosity in donating theMustang SR-71 ‘Blackbird’ to the Gathering of Eagles further demonstrates a dedication to supporting aviation and inspiring aviation enthusiasts of all ages.”

In 2008, Ford’s inaugural vehicle specially-built in support of the Young Eagles, the one-of-a-kind Mustang AV8R, raised a record $500,000 for the charity. “The excitement around the 2008 AV8R, our first one-off Mustang ever produced, inspired us to push for another, first, the collaboration of Carroll Shelby and Jack Roush,” said Edsel B Ford II, a member of Ford’s Board of Directors. “This year’s SR-71 Blackbird is a special tribute to Ford’s lineage ofperformance vehicles, as well as to the promising innovators of EAA’s Young Eagles.”

Ford vehicles sold at auction during past EAA AirVenture events have collectively raised more than $1 million to support the Young Eagles. TheMustang SR-71 “Blackbird” is Build #1 of 1 and presents a truly unique opportunity for collectors. The vehicle is based on a 2011 Mustang GT 5.0 with the glass roof option. Ford Racing performance modifications (Supercharger, Handling Pack, tuned exhaust, and exhaust tips) generate 100 additional horsepower from the all-aluminum 5.0L 32-valve V8 engine. The special racingHandling Pack optimizes the performance experience and lowers the ride height by 1-inch.

From there, the car takes on a design personality similar to that of the original SR-71 Blackbird aircraft. The Mustang’s stunning design theme includes black and gray matte exterior paint with harmonious SR-71 themed graphic treatment, performance wheels, front and rear fascias and an integrated spoiler/wing to reflect the car’s connection with its namesake aircraft, which made its inaugural flight in 1964, the year the first Ford Mustang came off the line. The “Blackbird” nickname is reflected in the car’s exterior paint treatment, complete with markings from the liquids which leaked and streaked until the plane came up to speed. A unique screen print glass roof design and exterior artwork reflect the unbridled spirit of the Ford Design team.

The interior cockpit will seat only two and includes a roll-cage, racing seats and fire extinguisher, The signatures of Jack Roush and Carroll Shelby are embroidered into the seats, and special gauges and instrument cluster graphics have been added.

Enhancing the value and allure of the vehicle, the Mustang SR-71 “Blackbird” will feature an appliqué autograph area capturing Roush and Shelby’s signatures and badging to further reinforce the uniqueness of the car. The vehicle will be on display at the Ford Hangar at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh beginning July 26.
Additionally, Ford and EAA will give AirVenture attendees the chance to win a 2011 Mustang GT convertible and other cash prizes in a raffle, with proceeds benefiting the EAA Young Eagles program.
During EAA AirVenture, Ford also will offer attendees access to the latest advances in automobile technology, as well as many of the industry’s most revered classics at the popular “Ford Hangar” on the grounds of Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh. Ford activities will include top-tier entertainment and interactive components that will add excitement for the hundreds thousands of aviation fans in attendance.

Design Vision

·         Modify a new 2011 Mustang GT glass roof coupe.
·         Design led by Darrell Behmer, Mustang Chief Designer.
·         Engineering led by Dave Pericak, Mustang Chief Nameplate Engineer.
·         Exterior paint in unique non-production matte and silver treatment with SR-71 cues.
·         Harmonious paint and graphic treatment could include: Blackbird accents, fluid discharge markings, abstract Air Force Star and Bar, LM Skunk Works elements, glass roof etching treatment, etc.
·         Interior modifications planned include: performance gauges, modified nav screen & instrument clusters, racing seats & steering wheel, rear seat delete, roll cage, IP badging, unique sill plates & floor mats
·         Performance modifications could include:  Ford Racing Super Charger, Handling Pack, Tuned Exhaust, Exhaust Tips, and SVT Track Pack wheels in custom paint.
·         Pursuing rear seat delete approach to accentuate cockpit environment.
·         Lower a minimum of 1 inch.
·         Autograph areas to capture Carroll Shelby and Jack Roush signatures and badging to reinforce the unique nature of this build.

Engine & Performance

·         Provide a truly unique and highly valued vehicle to excite enthusiasts and collectors.
·         Amplify the legendary connections associated with this project: Carroll Shelby, Jack Roush, Lockheed SR-71, and Ford Mustang.
·         Go beyond the automotive connections – Shelby as USAF flight instructor, Roush P-51 pilot.
·         Generate enthusiasm and bolster opinion among the 580,000 AirVenture attendees – car vs. plane races, Shelby GT350/500 vs. Roush Stage 3/427R.
·         Expand impressions through integration in EAA website, PA announcements, auto and aviation industry publications, and on-site promotion.
·         Showcase Ford/Roush/Shelby relationships and collaboration to support EAA Young Eagles.
·         Further cement Ford Motor Company as the leading partner in AirVenture through our deep and unwavering support of EAA objective to provide funds for youth interested in aviation careers.  Three FMC vehicles have raised $1 million for the Young Eagles – the Mustang AV8R raised $500,000 in 2008, the AV-X10 generated $250,000 in 2009, and the Mustang GTH raised $250,000 in 2006.

Motor Trend has all but confirmed one of the car world’s worst kept secrets; the Chevrolet Camaro will return in Z28 trim for 2012, likely packing the 556-horsepower LSA supercharged V8 used in the Cadillac CTS-V. The LSA engine makes just a touch more horsepower than a comparable Shelby GT500 (which has to make do with only 540 horsepower), and will be backed by a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The Z28s return was confirmed by Karl Stracke, GM’s Vice President of Global Vehicle Engineering, in an interview with Motor Trend magazine. Strecke, who likes motorcycles and drives a Corvette Grand Sport, is the kind of guy you want heading up the Z28 program. With the Shelby GT500 as the current king of the muscle car wars and the 5.0 going toe to toe with the Camaro SS, the Z28 needs to be substantially better than both cars to recapture the glory for Chevrolet. Now if they just bring back an IROC trim, the 80′s nostalgia will be complete.

[Source: Motor Trend]

Jay Leno’s epic car collection has a new addition to the “Ford section” (yes folks, he has a Ford section) of his garage, a brand-new 2011 Ford Mustang 5.0. The car in question, a Black coupe with a tan interior, has Michigan manufacturer plates, leading Left Lane News to suspect that something may be amiss with the situation, but more likely, this was a press car and Jay decided to order one, to keep his Ford GT, Shelby Cobra and Shelby Mustang GT350 company.

Driving impressions from what Leno are what you’d expect. The 5.0 is a big ball of fun and great value, according to Jay. Autoguide’s own Colum Wood is attending a Mustang event today, where he’ll be driving the V6, 5.0 and Shelby GT500 versions, so expect our driving impressions shortly. Hit the jump to check out nine minutes of big American V8 bliss, and Jay Leno’s sentimental musings on the fate of the muscle car.

[Source: Left Lane News]

Rather than the more traditional venue of Detroit, the Ford Motor Company will use the LA Auto Show to debut its new lineup of 2011 Mustang models. Just last year the car was significantly revised with a modernized exterior and a significantly improved interior that is now well beyond what the competition is offering. There’s only one problem, with just mild updates to the engine, both the V6 and V8 are lagging well behind in the horsepower war.

Ford is expected to rectify the situation with the 2011 models, with reports indicating that a new V6 could offer up as much as 300-hp, while a new V8 could deliver 400-hp – with a displacement of 5.0-liters, no less! Expect news of six-speed transmissions as well. The other rumor is that the GT500 will get an aluminum block, helping it shed pounds and improve the car’s overall balance.

Ford won’t confirm or deny these reports but Ford’s global product boss Derrick Kuzak did tell the folks at Autoblog that all questions would be answered at the LA Auto Show in December. Also, when asked about the aluminum-block GT500, Kuzak said, “That’s a good thought.”

The engine updates are much needed for the Mustang to put it back on top. The car has suffered significantly in sales in 2009, being beaten out by the Camaro for three straight months. While the Mustang is quite capable, even with the less powerful engine, horsepower numbers sell cars. And if the Mustang can offer everything it has now, plus more power and (presumably with a six-speed transmission), better fuel economy, then there’s no reason to buy anything else.

AutoGuide’s live coverage of the LA Auto Show starts December 2nd.

See AutoGuide’s Live 2009 LA Auto Show Coverage Here Starting December 2nd

[Source: Autoblog]