More Rumors and Innuendo
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| This artist's interpretation of the next generation Mustang GT, first shown in Automobile Magazine, is said to be "close but no cigar" by a Ford Motor Company employee. According to the Team Mustang member, "the blue one is getting kinda close but just doesn't evoke the same emotion as the actual car." If this is the case, then we're in for a treat. |
Rumors, and rumors of rumors, surround the next generation Ford Mustang. It was thought to be launched at the 2003 Detroit auto show in January but is now considered delayed, and set to appear April 17, in conjunction with the 40th anniversary day of the 1964 model launch. That would put it close to the New York auto show, a fitting place to launch the remaking of one of America's favorite automotive stars.
Initially the S197 (code name for the new car) was to be launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, but Ford's current financial challenges and the obvious marketing potential of Mustang's 40th anniversary makes the 2004½ unveiling of a 2005 model more intriguing.
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| According to the same Team Mustang member this conceptual drawing looks closest to the actual 2005 Mustang. "On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 meaning that it looks just like Ford's best clay model, this sketch from Motor Trend is a 9, but the real side scoops aren't 'so retro,' and the rear end is a little different," he stated. He continued, "It looks like someone leaked or it's just a good guess." |
While the timing is cool it will be quickly overshadowed by its rumored design. Expected to mix in hints of the current '99 to '03 generation, it also adds some original '65 styling cues with a few more from the '67 through '73 fastback models. Yes, the fastback is said to be the initial model, although spy shots of a convertible concept car caught in a photo shoot have caused a stir to the contrary.
Speaking of causing a stir, racing star and sports car builder Carroll Shelby is back with the blue oval - who would've ever thought that would happen - and heading up the new Ford GT team. Is anyone else having thoughts of a future race-ready Shelby Mustang coming to mind? I thought so.