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The AutoGuide News Blog is your source for breaking stories from the auto industry. Delivering news immediately, the AutoGuide Blog is constantly updated with the latest information, photos and video from manufacturers, auto shows, the aftermarket and professional racing.
 |  Jul 11, 9:10 AM

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Arguably the most exotic engine that Ford has ever built is the V12 for the Aston Martin Vanquish. Now there’s a chance to own that very engine under the hood of a genuine Ford product with this 2005 Ford Mustang featuring a rorty 5.9-liter V12 powerplant. The vehicle was originally built by Western Motorsports for SEMA in 2006 and still has less than 1,250 miles on the odometer.

For $79,900, you’ll get yourself a 600-hp V12-powered Ford Mustang with a 6-speed Tremec T-56 transmission mated to the engine. Bolted to the motor is a set of custom 6-2-1 headers that expel exhaust fumes through a Magnaflow 3-inch exhaust.

Suspension modifications include a set of coilovers from KW Suspension while the vehicle features a set of iForged Essen wheels with a staggered fitment – 19×9-inch in the front, 19×12-inch in the rear. The iForged wheels are wrapped with Micheline Pilot Sport rubber. Peering behind the mesh wheels is a Baer Extreme big-brake upgrade, featuring 14-inch rotors and 6-piston calipers.

For exterior modifications, the Mustang has been repainted with BASF’s R-M Carrizma Candy Blue paint and also features a Classic Design glassback roof, Colecraft’s billet custom fender and hood vents and WMS’ custom aluminum grill. Interior upgrades include a set of Cobra Missano Leather and Alcantara seats while AiM supplies the Mustang with their Strada dash and datalogger.

GALLERY: Vanquish-Powered Ford Mustang

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[Source: Kijiji via Jalopnik]

 |  Feb 10, 6:26 PM

Carroll Shelby is arguably the greatest American motoring icon to have ever lived, and even at 88 years of age, he is showing no signs of slowing down.

At the 2011 Chicago Auto Show, Shelby rolled out the 2012 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350. Unlike the GT500, the GT350 is not finished at Ford, but rather at the Shelby American facility in Las Vegas, NV.

For 2012, Shelby is offering his performance package on the convertible model for the first time since 1970 (coupe also still available). The new GT350 gets new bumpers, hood, wheels and colors to differentiate it from other Mustangs. You also get to pick how much power you’d like to handle. The base model gets 430-hp, from the normally-aspirated 5.0-liter V8, or you can choose to throw in one of two supercharger kits which can take the power upto 525-hp or 624-hp. So the tradition of fast Shelby’s continue.

Only 350 units of the GT350 will be produced for 2012, so if you want one, act fast. Prices start at $26,995 on top of the price for the donor.

(Source: Shelby)

 |  Dec 02, 3:27 PM


What happens when you mix a 550-hp Shelby GT500 and push 24 lbs of boost though it to make 800-hp? Well, if you’re unlucky, it explodes in a fiery mess.

At least that’s what happened to the owner of this car.

There’s little information about the explosion floating around, but you don’t want to miss this video. Keep watching all the way to the end for a low-down side view when this rocket goes off.

Check out the video after the jump:

Continue Reading…

 |  Nov 29, 3:41 PM

Back in 1993, Steve Saleen built a one-off Foxbody Ford Mustang for comedian and car guy Tim Allen. Dubbed the RRR ‘Casper’ it sported pearl white paint, MN12 Thunderbird front light assemblies, some trick wheels, a built driveline (including  a 576 horsepower 302 V8) and a six-point roll cage among other things.

Little has been seen or heard about the car since Allen took delivery, though now, it’s popped up for sale. The current vendor claims they’ve had the car since 1997, but it appears that this one-of-a-kind Mustang has been driven rather extensively (there’s notable wear on the steering wheel and upholstery) and wasn’t even cleaned before pictures were taken. Furthermore, it’s currently sporting standard 1993 Saleen wheels – what ever happened to the one-off phone dial style rims it originally came with?

The car is currently located in the Phoenix, Arizona area and the asking price is $85,000. That seems an awful lot for a Fox Mustang in this economic climate, even if is the RRR!

[Source: Hemmings Motor News]

 |  Nov 04, 6:46 PM

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We’ve already brought you extensive coverage of Ford‘s official Mustang presence at the 2010 SEMA Show, including the RTR-X 1969 Fastback, but that’s only a small glimpse of the modified Mustangs at the world’s largest aftermarket expo.

A wander through the numerous halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center reveals a very long list of Mustangs (almost all of which are new 2011 GT models) from tuners like Saleen and Roush. Also of note are a few Mustangs built by the likes of Procharger and Vortech and showcasing their new supercharger systems for the new 5.0-liter V8. Not surprisingly, power gains are impressive with numbers as high as 600-hp – an almost 200-hp gain over the stock V8.

The big gains are a testament to the impressive engineering in the 5.0-liter block and we’re sure the numbers will only go up from here.

GALLERY: Modified Mustangs of the 2010 SEMA Show

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 |  Nov 02, 3:24 PM

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Ford crammed literally dozens of cars and trucks into its booth at the SEMA Show this year, but of the group there was one definitive showstopper. During the press conference, only one car remained under wraps and that was the Team Need for Speed 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X, built with input by Ford driver Vaughn Gittin Jr. and set to appear virtually in an upcoming Need for Speed game.

Based on the 1969 Dynacorn body Mustang (a recreation of the original fastback model using Ford tooling), the chassis is custom built, as is the suspension setup, to allow for an extra low ride height as well as some serious (50 to 60 degree) steering angle. After all, this is no trailer Queen. No, Gittin intends to drift the car like he would any other.

Under the hood is a new 5.0-liter V8 engine from the 2011 Mustang GT, pumped up to 440-hp at close to 8000 rpm. And who can miss the Kinsler individual throttle bodies?

Outside there’s plenty of custom bodywork including the massive fender flares. According to Gittin, he and his team took inspiration not just from race cars and classic American muscle, but also from old Japanese sports cars (we spy a little Datsun in the design). And speaking of old school Japanese cars, the RTR-X gets a set of Work Meister rims (designed after Gittin’s own drift car) wrapped in Falken RT615-K tires.

Other modern highlights for the RTR-X include an updated interior with digital gauges, as well as plenty of carbon fiber and Alcantara.

We can’t wait to see what this beauty is capable of.

GALLERY: Team Need for Speed 1969 Ford Mustang RTR-X

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See after the jump for video of the car:

Continue Reading…

 |  Oct 28, 7:42 AM

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It looks like there might not be room for anyone but Ford at the SEMA Show this year. The Blue Oval has already announced a lineup of eight Fiestas, seven F-Series trucks and a selection of other vehicles that include everything from a Taurus to a Lincoln MKX; and now Ford has released info on nice 2011 Mustangs that are sure to attract a crowd at the world’s largest aftermarket expo.

While Ford will have their own Ford Custom Accessories Mustang on hand showing just how you can equip your ‘Stang straight from the dealer, some of the more impressive vehicles include the Mustang drag car build by Muscle Mustangs & Fast Ford, sporting a Ford Racing Performance Parts supercharger, Roush front-end and Cervini’s hood. Also of note is the Raceskinz Mustang with a ProCharger supercharger mated to the 5.0-liter V8 and a rear-seat delete. And let’s not forget the Mobsteel Mustang that’s all blacked-out and includes a turbocharged V6 under the hood.

And with Ford getting more progressive with the classic lines of the Mustang, let’s not forget the sport-compact themed Team Baurtwell car that includes a 3dCarbon aero kit or the Tjin Edition car. There’s also a solid chance the Street Scene Equipment Mustang Convertible could be a stunner in person.

And let’s not forget the Creations n’ Chrome Mustang that was built to raise awareness for breast cancer with a Vortech supercharger, HRE wheels, 3dCarbon aero kit and, of course, bright pink paint.

AutoGuide’s coverage of the 2010 SEMA Show starts November 2nd an we’ll be sure to bring you extensive photos of each car from the show floor. Until then, check out our SEMA Preview here.

GALLERY: 2010 SEMA Show Ford Mustangs

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Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…

 |  Oct 01, 7:35 PM

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The new Ford Mustang GT has only been on the market for a few months and Roush hasn’t wasted any time in introducing what it calls the 5XR Mustang tuning package for $15,390.

Much of that cost goes to the R2300 Roushcharger, taking horsepower to 525-hp (from the factory 412-hp) and torque to 465 ft-lbs. To amplify the stock V8 tone is a Roush exhaust system sporting square tips. Suspension upgrades are also included in the package, which includes new lowering springs and shocks. Wheels are also from Roush in a 20-inch sizing wrapped with Cooper’s RS3 tires.

For exterior modifications, a complete Roush body kit outfits the car, giving it a much more aggressive look to match its added performance. The kit includes a new front bumper, front splitter, side splitters, rear valence and three-piece spoiler. Graphics, badging and a new grille also add to the aesthetics.

Just 150 5XR kits will be made with Roush only selling packages to buyers who purchase a new Ford Mustang GT though an authorized Roush dealer.

GALLERY: Roush Ford Mustang 5XR

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Official press release available after the break.

Continue Reading…

 |  Sep 15, 9:08 AM

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In case the new 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 isn’t enough to satisfy your craving for speed, Carroll Shelby’s Shelby American tuning shop will now offer an aftermarket Super Snake tuning package that will deliver up to 800-hp. That’s right, because the 550-hp machine isn’t enough already.

The Super Snake kit will include a 6-speed manual transmission with 3.73:1 axle ratio, a Ford Racing handling pack, (or optional Shelby/Eibach package), Baer brakes, 20-inch wheels, a Borla exhaust and lots of unique badging etc. Under the hood, the standard package will include a 660-hp Shelby/Ford Racing supercharger. Customers can opt for a more powerful (750-hp) version of that blower or a Shelby/Kenne Bell supercharger kit, with the big dog 800-hp kit topping out the range.

Pricing starts at $30,245 (plus the price of your Mustang GT).

GALLERY: 2011 Shelby GT500 Super Snake

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Read AutoGuide’s 2011 Ford Shelby GT500 Review by Clicking Here

Full details available after the jump:

Continue Reading…

 |  Sep 11, 9:33 AM

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So you’ve gotten yourself a 2010 Ford Mustang and the 2011 Ford Mustang has been announced and you’re a little… disappointed. Your first thoughts are to trade in your 2010, but then you realize it’s not a wise investment. Your second thought is to hit the Internet to scour the web to make your 2010 Mustang cooler than ever before. Well, it’s a good thing Cervini’s has your back and at this year’s SEMA show they’ll be showing off their Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 (aka Eleanor from Gone in 60 Seconds) styled body kit for the 2010 Ford Mustang.

It’s a shame the kit won’t come with an Angelina Jolie replica, but for the right price you’ll be getting yourself a urethane hood, front bumper, side skirts, side scoops, rear valence, spoiler, front billet grills, fog lights and a side-exit exhaust system. It may be a little over the top for some Mustang owners looking for something conservative, but we’ve gotta say, it’s pretty cool that Cervini not only manufactures the kit in high quality urethane, but found a way to blend the nostalgic Shelby styling to the new-age Ford Mustang.

No pricing has been released yet and only the hood and side scoops are available for purchase now. But Cervini has stated that the full kit will be available to the general public within two months.

AutoGuide.com will make sure to snap some live shots of the ‘Stang at SEMA 2010.

 |  Sep 03, 2:24 PM

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Carroll Shelby, meet Brett Favre. Brett Favre, meet Carroll Shelby. Something tells us that no matter how much Shelby wants to believe he’s going to retire and stop building complete cars, it’ll be a while until we see the last of him and his awesome creations.

The newest to hit the rumor mill is Shelby’s idea of a new generation GT500 sporting a twin-turbo setup and pushing out over 1000-hp. And it won’t come cheap, at a proposed price of $100,000. At the heart of it all will be Shelby’s in-house developed 5.4L V8 paired to a six-speed transmission.

Packing over 1,000-hp normally means this vehicle will be setup to be used on the track more so than the street. So beefy brakes from Shelby/Baer (sporting six-piston calipers) and a 10-point roll cage would just be the bare necessities. Ford Racing suspension and drag axles along with safety loops on the driveshaft setup the car to be a real track bruiser.

It’s also mentioned that the GT500 might sport a dual fuel system to accompany race fuel. And on the outside it’ll sport a custom widebody kit with 20-inch Alcoa wheels. There aren’t any plans of gutting the interior either, leather seats and a premium stereo system will still have a home.

We find it hard to believe with all the new toys at Shelby’s disposal now that he’d find a way to retire. And much like good ‘ol Favre we’ll expect a lot of back and forth indecisiveness and at the end of the day, great creations will still come.

[Source: WorldCarFans]

 |  Aug 30, 2:07 PM

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The all new 2011 Ford Mustang is already receiving plenty of praise and acclaim out there on the market, bringing performance and style at an affordable price. And Ford has taken some notes at other successful manufacturers out there by looking to unleash several special edition Ford Mustangs to the public. One of these has recently been revealed as the DUB Edition Package.

Surprisingly, the DUB Edition Ford Mustang V6 package isn’t overinflated in terms of pricing with an MSRP of $3,599.00. Considering all that you’re getting with the package, we think it’s a pretty good deal – that is, if you’re a fan “urban” Mustangs. On the outside, Roush aero components are subtle, but clean while a Ford accessories hood scoop makes the Mustang more aggressive. The stripe package we could do without, but the lowered stance (thanks to springs) and 3.31 gears are welcomed changes in the performance department. Rounding off the exterior is a set of 20-inch TIS wheels wrapped with Pirelli tires. Not exactly our cup of tea, but we guess they could have done much worse. We’re more curious as to whether or not they’ll offer color choices of if they’ll only be available with a black lip for the DUB edition. And it’s worth mentioning that the interior receives DUB-embroidered headrests, just to reiterate what you spent your hard-earned money on.

Apparently 1,000 of these limited edition packages will be available through 2012 and DUB is already looking towards coming up with a package for the V8 Mustang. If you’re interested, they’ll be available at Ford dealers starting next week.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continue Reading…

 |  Aug 28, 2:10 PM

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Ford and Roush go together like peanut butter and jelly. You can have one without another, but it’s just not the same. Ford’s new 2011 Mustang 5.0 has already been getting tons of acclaim and now Roush will be taking it to a whole new level in performance. For a retail price of $5,999.00, your 2011 Mustang can have upwards of 550-hp and 470 ft-lbs of torque!

The Roushcharger Tuner Kit (part # 421140) is based on the popular TVS2300 Roushcharger and comes with a 90mm pulley that puts out approximate seven pounds of boost. To ensure the forced inducted 5.0L stays healthy, 47 lb fuel injectors, high-flow fuel rails, high-flow Roush air land and a twin 60mm throttle body are also included in the kit.

And those wondering about reliability and warranty, Roush offers a 90-day parts warranty but notes that it will not maintain the factory Ford warranty. Those willing to wait until fall, Roush will be releasing a kit that will come with full tuning and warranty.

Official press release available after the break.

Continue Reading…

 |  Jul 19, 7:02 AM

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Looking to own a true, one-of-a-kind Ford Mustang collectible? Well, this one is gonna cost ya. RM Auctions is offering the 2004 Ford Mustang GT-R Concept, originally introduced at the 2004 New York International Auto Show as a tribute to 40 years of Mustang performance. A custom built Mustang with performance and race-inspiration in mind, RM Auctions is estimating that the GT-R concept will sell for $250,000 to $350,000.

For a vehicle that’s neither DOT nor EPA certified, that’s a pretty penny to pay for a track-only car, or something to sit in your show garage. But what the lucky owner will get is a Valencia Orange painted 2004 Mustang sporting a high compression, fully built 440-hp powerplant. Mated to a TTC T-56 six-speed transmission.

Inside the entire chassis has been overhauled with a full roll cage, Sparco racing seats and stripped to its bare necessities. Suspension upgrades include coilovers with remote reservoirs, ready to hit the track. 20-inch wheels are found on each corner, wrapped with Pirelli slicks with Brembo brakes peeking behind the classic five-spoke design.

Lastly on the outside is an abundance of carbon fiber components giving the car a more aggressive look while improving aerodynamics.

So you have a hole burning in your pocket?

GALLERY: 2004 Ford Mustang GT-R Concept

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[Source: MustangsDaily]

 |  Jul 13, 7:23 AM

For the first time ever two of the greatest names in Mustang-lore, Carroll Shelby and Jack Roush, will team up to build a one-off special edition Ford Mustang. Called the SR-71, after the Lockheed Martin SR-71 Blackbird, there’s a long list of connections that give purpose to the designation. For starters, in this case “SR” will stand for Shelby Roush. Then there’s the fact that the SR-71 first took flight the year the Mustang was introduced. Plus, Shelby is a former USAF flight instructor and Roush is a P-51 Mustang pilot. And to tie it all together, the car will be built and auctioned off with proceeds going to support the EAA’s (Experimental Aircraft Association) Young Eagles program, which Ford has supported for 15 years running.

Vehicle highlights will include a new 5.0-liter TiVCT V8 engine equipped with a 2.3-liter Whipple Twin Screw Supercharger, a Ford Racing handling pack, Ford Racing exhaust, SVT Track Pack, matte-silver paint with SR-71 details, custom Recaro seats, rear seat delete, a modified Nav screen and instrument cluster and custom badging. Oh, and those racing seats will feature the embroidered signatures of Jack Roush and Carroll Shelby.

The auction is set to take place on Thursday, July 29th at 7:30 PM (Central Time) at the EAA Museum in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Those wishing to bid can hit the jump to get more info or go here: www.airventure.org/gathering

No doubt this will be a valuable collectors item.

GALLERY: Shelby Roush SR-71 Mustang

[Source: Roush]

Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…

 |  Jun 11, 2:49 PM

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Ford has just announced a new package for the 2011 Mustang and unlike retro styled kits like the California Special, this one really gets our blood pumping. Designed by pro-drifter Vaugh GittinJr., the RTR package will be available for all 2011 models and includes a complete aero kit including a front splitter, side skirts, a rear diffuser and rear spoiler. Also a part of the package are M Falken FK-452 on 19-inch wheels as well as special RTR interior details and racing stripes.

GALLERY: Vaughn Gittin Jr. RTR Package for the 2011 Mustang

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Get all the info after the jump:

Continue Reading…

 |  Jun 04, 9:42 AM

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The value of the 2011 Shelby GT350 has just gone through the roof, as legendary racer and tuner Carroll Shelby has admitted the car may be his last. But don’t worry performance fans, 87-year-old Shelby isn’t ready to retire just yet. Instead Shelby is looking to focus more on the parts business, rather than selling whole cars from his Shelby American performance facility in Las Vegas.

“I want to build fewer cars and sell more parts,” said Shelby in an interview with the Dallas News. “It’s hard to make any money on a car. But our parts business is growing 15 to 20 percent a year.”

Previous to the GT350, Shelby’s company produced the Shelby GT from 2007-08. The company built 5,000 of them, but Shelby admits that there’s just no market to sell that many version of a custom model any more.

Instead Shelby is looking to diversify his business and is even considering licensing a chain of shops that could work on and install Shelby American parts. Either way, we’re sure we haven’t heard the last of Carroll Shelby.

GALLERY: Shelby GT350

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[Source: DallasNews]

 |  May 28, 8:08 AM

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It’s no surprise that Gittin Jr. has really helped push the Ford Mustang brand with younger enthusiasts. From drifting to his Mustang RTR, to the awesome and RTR-C (that debuted at SEMA 2009), he has captured the attention of many using modern designs and modern Mustangs.

Now he’s taking a step back, way back to 1969. That’s right, instead of planning a 2011 Mustang for SEMA this year, Gittin Jr. is planning to build a bad-ass 1969 Stang.

The project is a collaboration with Team Need for Speed from EA Games. Yes, the same Need for Speed that we see on the shelves at Wal-Mart and Best Buy for the Xbox 360 and PS3. Dubbed the RTR-X, the project has already been in the works for the greater half of this year.

Gittin will be starting with a Dynacorn 1969 Ford Mustang fastback body rather than sourcing a used chassis himself. Considering the amount of work that they plan on doing to this car, it’s probably the best move. The suspension will be completely overhauled with the aid of Maier Racing. Under the hood will be new-age technology, featuring a 2011 Ford Mustang GT 5.0L V8. Clearly the stock engine won’t be enough for a monster driver like Gittin, so individual throttle bodies from Kinsler will be in the works.

Interestingly enough, Gittin is opting for a set of JDM wheels from Work Wheels – 18×10 and 18×12 Work Meisters. Falken’s RT615-Ks will surround the wheels naturally and brakes will be supplied by Wilwood.

Much of the build will be assisted by Twins Turbo and Steen Chassis, all brilliant minds in the industry that have more than enough experience to back the project. From renders to reality, we’re really excited to see how this project will turn out. Adding some modern flair to a classic vehicle while sporting influence from all facets of motorsports really makes this project a complete one-of-a-kind.

[Source: Speedhunters]

GALLERY: 1969 Mustang RTR-X

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 |  May 03, 12:26 PM

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It was inevitable, but the first special edition Ford Mustang is here, and not surprisingly, it’s a V6. The 2011 DUB edition Ford Mustang comes in a coupe, convertible or full-length glass roof bodystyle, with a Roush front end treatment, racing stripes, quarter window covers, windshield banner, and DUB logos embroidered onto the front headrests. 20-inch wheels, Pirelli tires and Roush lowering springs help give the car a low and wide look, while a 3.31 axle ratio should improve acceleration times, or compensate for the massive wheels.

Press Release After The Jump

Continue Reading…

 |  Apr 19, 9:04 PM

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The 2011 Mustang is receiving quite the attention these days thanks to a recently updated design and the new high-horsepower, fuel efficient 3.7-liter V6 and 5.0-liter V8. With all things Ford Mustang, we knew it wouldn’t take long before Saleen SMS Supercars would produce its own version, specializing in high performance while accenting the newest Stang’s already good looks. Steve Saleen founded Saleen Autosport in 1983 and hasn’t looked back since, producing high performance, modified Mustangs with daily-driving as their main focus.

SMS Supercars is Steve Saleen’s vision of producing lifestyle performance automobiles – the complete package. From bumper to bumper, each SMS Supercar has been modified from the factory to personify its owner. Most recently is the new 302 Mustang release, carrying the 302-nomination thanks to the change in displacement for 2011′s V8.

Two versions of SMS Supercars’ 302 Mustang will be offered, one for the naturally aspirated enthusiast and one for the forced induction fan. The naturally aspirated version produces 440-hp from the factory 412-hp. Meanwhile the supercharged 302SC version will boost its way to 535-hp and 450 ft-lbs of torque.

Aesthetically the 302 Mustang receives its proprietary body kit, hood, heat-extracting grilles on the outside, while suspension upgrades gives the car a more aggressive stance on its 20-inch wheels and tires. Peeking behind the classy five-spoke wheels are SMS-branded brakes. Nowadays no custom vehicle is complete without interior upgrades. The SMS 302 Mustang sports Alcantara seats, 200-mph gauges, short-throw shifter and more.

For those that just want the nitty gritty tech specs, the naturally aspirated 5.0-liter does 0-60 mph in under 4.5 seconds while the 302SC blasts away at 4.3 seconds. Neither of these vehicles can be had without paying a premium however. The NA model is available with an MSRP of $54,990 and the 30SC sports a $64,990 price tag.

GALLERY: SMS Supercars 302 2011 Ford Mustang

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The official press release is available after the break.

Continue Reading…

 |  Mar 22, 1:01 PM

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Legendary Mustang tuner ROUSH has build a special Barrett-Jackson Edition ‘Stang that will be auctioned off in April at the 8th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Auction in Palm Beach, Florida, which runs from April 1-3. The car is technically being billed as a concept car, which will be followed by 25 production models based on the 2010 Mustang and an additional 25 models based on the 2011 car.

The production models will sell from $41,495 (plus the cost of a Mustang), although the auctioned model is likely to fetch considerably more. It will, however, be put on the block without a reserve bid.

Each car will get 540-hp and 510 ft-lbs of torque thanks to a R2300 ROUSHcharger and new forged internals. Other highlights include 20-inch wheels and high performance Cooper RS3 tires, along with a fully modified suspension, upgraded brakes and a complete aerodynamic package. Owners will be able to pick from a wide variety of colors.

“The 2010 Barrett-Jackson Edition ROUSH Mustang ties two leading automotive brands together in an amazing package combining performance and unique styling,” said Jack Roush. “People who drive a regular production ROUSH Mustang are used to getting plenty of second looks.  But with the custom Barrett-Jackson paint in such gorgeous colors, these owners will experience envy on an entirely new level.”

The ROUSH Barrett-Jackson Edition Mustang Concept is painted “Back in Black” with “Red Hot Chili Pepper” stripes and is expected to hit the block on April 3rd.

[Source: RoushPerformance]

Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…

 |  Jan 19, 1:47 PM

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Carroll Shelby’s own tuning company Shelby American has announced the return of the GT350 model, debuting it at the Barrett-Jackson auction in Scottsdale 45 years after the original GT350 was released.

Based on the new 2011 Mustang GT, the GT350 gets a Ford Racing supercharged mated to the stock car’s 5.0-liter V8 to make roughly 500-hp – which shouldn’t be hard considering the stock motor already makes 412-hp. The engine also gets some bling with Blue Shelby GT350 valve covers and billet caps.

In addition, the GT350 conversion includes a complete aero kit with a dual central-exit exhaust system, 19-inch Cragar wheels, Goodyear tires and a Baer six-piston front brake setup up front. Several changes have been made to the suspension with Ford Racing springs, struts, sway bars and adjustable camber/caster plates.

“In 1964, Ford Motor Company asked Shelby American to turn their secretary’s car into a race winner to help them sell Mustangs,” said Carroll Shelby, founder of Shelby American. “Our Shelby GT350 ruled its class at the track and was feared by GM and Chrysler owners on the street. Enthusiasts have anticipated the GT350′s return since it went out of production in 1970. Now my band of hot rodders has created a car worthy of the name.”

All GT350 conversions are performed at Shelby American’s facility in Las Vegas for a price of $33,995 (plus the cost of the car). Yikes!

GALLERY: Shelby American GT350

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Official release after the jump:

Continue Reading…

 |  Nov 13, 1:00 PM

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Revealed ahead of the 2009 SEMA Show and then officially debuting at the aftermarket expo, it seems as though with all the hundreds of modified Camaros to cover, Saleen’s latest project flew under the radar. To remedy that, we thought we’d look back and give an update now that the new Saleen (Saleen Performance Vehicles) has released complete details on its 2010 S281 model.

The car features a Saleen Series VI.5 twin-screw supercharger and dual-stage intercooler mated to the factory 4.6-liter V8 engine to produce 485 hp and 460 ft-lbs of torque. All S281 models also feature a limited-slip differential. Additional modifications include a lowered suspension with new springs and shocks/struts, a sway bar, 7-spoke 20-inch wheels with Pirelli P-Zero Rosso tires, a custom interior and aerodynamics kit.

“Our goal was to create the most visually enticing American sports car ever,” said David Byron, design director at Saleen Performance Vehicles. “Ford provided the perfect launching pad with the 2010 Mustang, which allowed our team to create a car that’s world class and authentically Saleen. We painstakingly toiled over every bend and break in the body and every stitch and fold in the interior.”

“For more than 25 years the Saleen name has stood for excellence in design, engineering, and driving dynamics,” said Mike Shields, CEO of Saleen Performance Vehicles. “The new S281 is an excellent example of what those words mean when we craft concepts into real cars. Our team has done a terrific job; I’mproud of them and proud to be offering this car to our customers.”

GALLERY: 2010 Saleen S281

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See more details on the 2010 Saleen S281 after the jump:

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 |  Nov 05, 6:42 PM

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Over the past year or so Steve Saleen’s new project, SMS Supercars has released high performance versions of the Camaro, Mustang and Challenger. This week at the Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) Show, SMS announces the introduction of SMS Superparts, a division of the company that will sell the parts individually through a distribution network.

“We are excited to launch our newest addition to the SMS Supercars family right here at SEMA, where it all happens,” said Steve Salleen. “To have a strictly SMS Superparts display was a conscious choice on my part. I wanted to underline the importance of the aftermarket business, the passion of the enthusiasts and the true Steve Saleen fans.”

Saleen also included a second announcement, the introduction of the SMS 296 supercharger for the 2005-10 Mustang. This new blower is expected to produce output of 475-hp, with higher output packages reaching all the way to 650-hp.

For photos of the new SMS 296 Supercharger installed on a 2010 Mustang, as well as a Sour Grape Green 2010 SMS 570X Challenger, check out the gallery below.

GALLERY: SMS Superparts Cars at SEMA

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Official release after the jump:

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