This has to be one of the most fitting tributes to an auto industry legend. 45 years after Lee Iacocca introduced the first generation Ford Mustang, the latest member of the pony car fraternity has earned his approval – the “2009½” Iacocca 45th Anniversary Silver Edition Ford Mustang.By Kyle Kock
A collaborative effort between the Iacocca aka “Father of the Mustang”, designer Michael Leone and renowned coachbuilding and design company Gaffoglio Family Metalcrafters, the special edition Mustang venture is called I Legacy, and will be available exclusively from the Galpin Ford dealership in California.
Based on the current Mustang Platform, the hand-crafted Iacocca Silver Edition Mustang draws heavily on the styling of the original Mustang Fastback, with a prominent fastback roofline that stretches to the far reaches of the rear end, as well as “sunken” headlamps, slanted grille and low stance. The Iacocca Mustang rides on specially-designed, chrome-finished 20-inch alloys wrapped in 245/45 Goodyear rubber in all four corners. Iacocca Design emblems adorn the bonnet, boot lid and chrome wheels.
The Silver Edition Iacocca Mustang is powered by the stock 4,6-litre Ford V8, which produces 235 kW at 6 000 r/min and 440 N.m of torque at 4 250 r/min. Customers may opt for a supercharger system that boosts power to 298 kW, as well as an uprated brake system and Ford Racing Handling Pack that includes new shocks and springs – all of which do not affect the car’s warranty.
The interior features “Diamond Design” leather trim, facia plaque with Iacocca’s signature, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with “I” badge and aluminium door sill plates, as well as all the usual comforts like electric windows and air-conditioning.
The 45th anniversary nameplate also hints at the limited number of Iacocca Silver Edition Mustangs that will be made available at the Galpin dealership in July. Only 45 “2009½” Iacocca Silver Edition Mustangs – all painted in a special silver hue – will be built.
