As the exclusive automotive sponsor of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, a world-famous air show, Ford has gone all out to create a unique U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition 2014 Ford Mustang GT. This custom vehicle – which sports VIN 0001 – is being auctioned off to support the EAA Young Eagles program, which has provided free introductory flights to more than 1.6 million young people since 1992.
The Ford engineers and designers crafted this one-off model to celebrate and commemorate the 60th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds air demonstration squadron. Flying the iconic F-16 Falcon, the Thunderbird planes are known around the world for their glossy red, white, and blue paint scheme.
Taking its cues from those sleek aircraft, the special edition 5.0-liter glass-roof coupe exudes a creative connection to the Thunderbirds, with a contemporary flair for the serious collector. The exterior draws on that connection with a custom brilliant white paint with red and blue accents, as well as markings and logos to tie it to the Thunderbirds aircraft.
The treatment includes modifications to widen the body and a handcrafted and painted “belly pan” that emulates the F-16 Thunderbird appearance. Custom 22-inch wheels complete the look and make this Mustang stand out from anything else on the road.
Inside the car, unique touches include a modified navigation screen, instrument cluster, and rear seat delete. The front Recaro® seats feature embroidered Thunderbirds elements. Additional features include unique sill plates and puddle lamps that project the aircraft silhouette when the doors open.
Underneath the hood, Ford Racing components boost the performance to an extraordinary level. With the addition of a Ford Racing supercharger, suspension handling pack, and Brembo® brakes, this custom Mustang radiates power and performance.
The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds Edition joins five other one-of-a-kind Mustangs created by the Ford design and engineering teams for the EAA Young Eagles auction in recent years, including the “Red Tails” Mustang we showcased last year. Ford vehicles sold at auction during past EAA AirVenture events have collectively raised nearly $1.9 million to support Young Eagles.
