Celebrating 50 Years of the Ford Mustang!

It’s official: the Ford Mustang has hit the big 5-0! Over the past five decades, this iconic muscle car has stayed true to its original concept, weathering gas crises, emissions and safety regulations, and shifting buyer preferences. Let’s dive into the Mustang’s impressive journey and the special celebrations marking its golden anniversary.

A Series of Celebrations: Countdown to the 50th

To commemorate this milestone, Wild About Cars & No Limits e-Magazine has been running a series called “Countdown to the 50th.” These articles highlight what our editors believe are the most significant Mustang models, options, and changes over the years.

Back to the Future: Empire State Building Display

In a nod to the past, Ford recreated a historic event from 1964 for the Mustang’s 50th anniversary. Just as they did 50 years ago, a new Mustang was disassembled and sent up to the observation deck of the Empire State Building in Manhattan. Using the same techniques from 1964, the 2015 Mustang was cut into segments to fit in the freight elevator and then reassembled on the 86th floor. The new 2015 Mustang is currently on display at the New York Auto Show, drawing crowds and Mustang enthusiasts from all over.

The 50 Year Limited Edition Mustang

To mark this significant milestone, Ford has announced a special 50 Year Limited Edition Mustang, with only 1,964 units being produced – a clever nod to the car’s debut year. This exclusive model is based on the all-new 2015 Ford Mustang GT and includes the Performance Pack.

Performance Pack Highlights

• Oversized, six-piston Brembo front brakes
• 19-inch alloy wheels with high-performance Y-speed-rated Pirelli P-Zero summer tires
• 5.0-liter V-8 engine churning out 420 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque

Transmission Options

• Six-speed manual with Torsen differential and a 3.73:1 final-drive ratio
• Automatic with a limited-slip differential and a 3.55:1 final drive

Luxurious Interior Features

The 50 Year Limited Edition model boasts a luxurious interior with a cashmere-stitched, leather-wrapped steering wheel. The cashmere stitching is also found on the instrument panel, shifter boot, center armrest, door inserts, and seats. Exclusive two-tone cashmere and black leather upholstery adorns the seats, complete with the Mustang 50 Year logo on the seat backs. Additionally, the anniversary model includes special 50 Year number plates.

Distinctive Design Elements

One of the standout features of the Limited Edition Mustang is the return of the “pony and corral” chromed logo, a throwback to the original 1964 and 1965 Mustangs. This emblem will be exclusive to the 50th anniversary edition, making it a true collector’s item.

Mustang Milestones: A Journey Through Time

Ford Motor Company has compiled a list of Mustang milestones and car styles for media use, showcasing the evolution of this iconic car.

The Performance Enthusiast’s Dream

For performance enthusiasts, the Mustang has been a game-changer, especially with the rebirth of the high-performance segment in the 1980s. After a grim period post-1972, the 1982 Mustang saw the return of the “5.0” designation, signaling a commitment to performance. This modest 157 HP car sparked a resurgence in the performance car segment, leading to modern Mustangs boasting over 600 HP.

Growth in Performance and Handling

Every year after 1982, the Mustang gained more power, better handling, and improved transmissions. It even spurred the creation of race sanctioning bodies devoted to the car. The Mustang’s legacy of performance continues today, inspiring enthusiasts and racers alike.

A Personal Connection

At Wild About Cars, we’ve all had a Mustang in our lives at some point. Whether it’s the classic 1960s models, the Mustang II, the Fox body cars from the 70s to the 90s, the SN-197s introduced in 2005, or the latest Coyote engine models, the Mustang holds a special place in our hearts.

Saluting Ford and the Mustang

We salute Ford and the Mustang on this incredible journey and wish them a happy 50th anniversary. Here’s to many more years of Mustang magic, power, and performance!

Join us in celebrating this automotive icon. The Mustang’s legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and sheer driving pleasure. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a new enthusiast, the Mustang’s story is one worth celebrating. Happy 50th, Mustang!