The roof consisted of a single curved glass panel made from crystal, while the doors opened vertically from hinges at the base of the upright A-pillar in a dramatic fashion. Bespoke taillights — three separate elements as found on the 1964 Mustang — were reinterpreted into a more dramatic arrow shape that linked to the louver panels replacing the rear side windows.
The interior was a real contrast to the modern exterior, particularly in its use of materials. The seat cushions and backrests were elaborately upholstered in dark brown mottled horse hides with dark brown horsehide-covered headrests with horse logo accents above. It was a nod to the Wild West and a complement to the badge.
The instrument panel, adorned with contrast colored leather at its base and two-tone floating ‘eyebrows’ emphasizing the 1964 original design, was fitted with chrome airvent surrounds and circular gauges, the latter projecting from behind the steering wheel to lend a more technical touch.
But the Mustang by Giugiaro concept wasn’t all about a pretty dress. Its performance and handling attributes were also addressed.
Ford Racing improved the donor GT’s 4.6-liter V8 by adding an intercooled twin-screw supercharger, fuel injectors from the Ford GT, a larger 95mm mass air meter and conical air filter, an aluminum radiator, new mufflers and an X-pipe. These upgrades were said to add 200bhp to the stock GT’s 300bhp.
Under the car, dynamic-tuned dampers, lowering springs and anti-sway bars gave the car a lowered stance (riding 38mm lower than the production Mustang GT) and sharpened handling.
“The Mustang by Giugiaro drives as good as it looks,” Fabrizio Giugiaro said of Ford Racing’s contribution. “After taking it to the limits on streets outside of Turin, I can honestly say this car was well worth the 30,000 hours of blood, sweat and tears that we invested to create a modern performance classic.”
Wonder where it is now…
