Ford Mustang Roadster, the origin of the American myth

The Ford Mustang I marks the first chapter of the legendary model of the American company. Made in 1962 As an innovative concept vehicle, with its mid-engine design and aluminum body, the Mustang I previews some key elements that will influence future Ford models.

Although its design was very different from the final production model, this prototype introduced the Mustang name for the first time in history.

The birth

La Ford Mustang I è un concept a two seatswith a central engine and an aluminum body. Equipped with a four-cylinder engine, as mentioned, it marks an important step in the history of the Ford brand, although it differs in many aspects from the definitive production model.

The name “Mustang” was suggested by the designer John Najjar and was inspired by the P-51 Mustang fighter. The Mustang I was developed under the guidance of the Fairlane Group, led by Lee Iacocca, with the intent of creating a sports car capable of competing with models such as the Chevrolet Corvette.

Designed to compete in the FIA ​​G class, the Mustang I stands out for its innovative layout. Eugene Bordinat and Philip T. Clark were primarily responsible for the design, while Roy Lunn, an experienced racing engineer, developed the chassis with independent suspension and front disc brakes.

The car uses an engine Ford Cardinal V4 da 1.500 ccpositioned behind the cockpit in combination with the gearbox, for a compact and efficient layout.

The first steps and the evolution

The Mustang I made its official debut on October 7, 1962, at the United States Grand Prix at Watkins Glen, New York. Here, test driver Dan Gurney, also a Formula One driver, demonstrated the prototype, reaching a speed of 190 km/h.

Ford

Ford Mustang Roadster Concept (1962)

This event generates a great deal of interest in the media and the public, fueling rumors of a possible production Ford sports car capable of challenging the Corvette. Despite the interest, the technical complexity of the vehicle makes it unsuitable for mass production.

Over the next two years, the Mustang I was displayed at numerous auto shows, continuing to attract attention from enthusiasts, but never coming close to production.

In 1963, Ford introduced the Mustang IIa more traditional prototype based on the Ford Falcon platform, representing a closer version to the production model.

Although the Mustang I did not reach production, its influence is evident in the Mustang line, which became an icon of the automotive industry. Currently, the only running example of the Mustang I is preserved at the The Henry Ford Museuma Dearborn, in Michigan.