The roots

This excellence is rooted in Henry Ford’s creative visionary spirit where around 100 years ago he launched the first ever-moving assembly line. The assembly line simplified assembly of the Ford Model T to just 84 steps as the chassis was pulled down the line by a rope. As a result, assembly time for the vehicle’s 3,000 parts reduced from 12 hours to just around 90 minutes. Over the years, Ford went ahead to refine the assembly line to further reduce the labor, time and money needed to manufacture cars. This allowed the automaker to reduce prices of the Model T to $300 from $850. This enabled the masses to afford quality vehicles.

Moving Assembly Line – How it all began

It is often said that Ford associated himself from experts from differ fields such as canning, steel making, and brewing. Each expert would contribute an idea on how to achieve mass production in auto manufacturing. In addition, his visionary leadership qualities helped create an environment where experts collaborated to develop new ideas and contribute innovations that eventually led to the invention of the assembly line. The actual line was launched in 1913, October 7 at the company’s Highland Park Assembly factory. The first assembly line was actually a crude system set in an open space.

The assembly line stretched 150 feet long and had a rope and a winch. The winch dragged the chassis across the floor as 140 assemblers stationed along the line installed parts on the chassis. As a result, assembly time dropped from over 12 hours under the old stationary system to less than three hours which was later refined to 90 minutes as the concept was upgraded. Later in 1914, an endless chain replaced the rope. In essence, the assembly line brought work close to the workers and smoothened differences as faster employees slowed down while slower employees were forced to work harder to keep up with the pace.  The impact was that from producing only 82,388 units of Model T and Touring cars, the automaker produced 585,388 units of Model T in 1916.

Greatest contribution to manufacturing

The invention was not only popular in the automobile industry but also to other manufacturing sectors such as vacuum cleaners, phonographs, refrigerators as well as other consumer goods. The line was built on principles of quality parts, efficiency, workflow and division of labor.  The company has built its reputation on these principles.  To further this tradition, the company is currently accelerating efforts to standardize its production process to ensure its factories are flexible and accommodating to new technologies that help the company to improve its efficiency while still offering value for customers all over the world. In commemorating the 100 years, Ford Executive Chairman, Bill Ford saluted his great-grandfather, Henry Ford for bringing “freedom of mobility” to the masses by production of affordable cars, a vision that the company continues today.

Downturns

The assembly line was not devoid of challenges though. To ensure optimal production for the assembly line, the company needed a stable workforce, which was difficult at the time as the sector experienced up to 378% turnover rate. To avoid this, Henry Ford made a decision that shocked the industry; he raised the base wage for plant workers to $5 for an 8-hour day from $2.34 for a 9-hour day. Like moving assembly line, this development also transformed the society and it is credited for building the middle class. It also influenced the “Great Migration” of workers to the industrial mid-west

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For higher trims, the drive-trains available were a 2.8 liter V-6, a 3.3 liter inline-6 and a 5.0 liter V-8. However, many enthusiasts did not like the automaker’s decision to customize the model mostly for the European market by ‘watering down” its traditional styling cues.

The third generation Mustang through the years

1980 Ford Mustang:

This year saw Ford drop the 302-cubic inch 5.0 L, V-8 engine. It was replaced by a 255-cubic inch 4.2 L, V-8 which was rated at 119 hp in the endeavor to create an economical and sporty car. The 2.8 L, V-6 mill was replaced by a 3.3 L, V-6 mill.

1981 Ford Mustang:

In ’81, new fuel emission regulations came into effect necessitating the automaker to yet again make changes on the Mustang’s engine lineup. The automaker discontinued the 2.3 L, turbocharged engine while the 255-cubic inch V-8 was revised to produce 115 hp up from 119 horses. At 115 hp, the model could not claim to offer any significant sportiness as the automaker claimed.

1982 Ford Mustang:

In ’82, Ford had to add significant power to the model to keep enthusiasts happy.  The GT returned and the 5.0 L, V-8 returned. The V-8 engine was capable of 157 horses, which was a huge improvement. In addition, the automaker added a revised exhaust system and an improved intake system which transformed the model to become among the fastest American-made cars. The T-top trim was also re-introduced but as an option.

1983 Ford Mustang:

Once again, Ford returned the convertible Mustang to the fold. The 5.0 L, V-8 engine on Mustang GT’s was revised to produce 175 hp. During this year, the California Highway Patrol purchased 400 Mustangs for high-speed street chases indicating the how popular the model had become.

1984 Ford Mustang:

’84 was a year of Special Edition Mustangs.  The Mustang got its first SVO model made by the Special Vehicle Operations. The Mustang SVO was motivated by a 2.3 L, 4-cylinder engine rated at 175 hp and 210 lb-ft of torque. Despite the model’s high price of $15,585, the Mustang was very popular. A GT model to celebrate Mustang’s 20^th Anniversary was also launched. The GT was offered in a Canyon Red interior and an Oxford White exterior.

1985 Ford Mustang:

In ’85, Ford continued to upgrade the Mustang’s engine lineup. The automaker introduced a 5.0 L, HO (High Output) engine which was capable of 210 hp. The SVO was also offered for the 1985 model year.

1986 Ford Mustang:

In ’86, Ford debuted a sequential multi-port fuel injection system on the V-8 engine which replaced the carburetor. The new engine produced 225 horses. The SVO was also offered; however, its power was slightly reduced to 200 hp from 205 hp. The SVO’s exterior was hooked up with an additional brake light on the rear spoiler.

1987 Ford Mustang:

In 1987, the Mustang received a comprehensive redesign. Ford added more aerodynamics to its exterior profile. This was the most significant redesign since the third-generation’s debut. The 5.0 L, mill was improved to offer 225 horses and the V-6 was discontinued. A new 2.3 L, 4-cylinder mill was introduced. The automaker’s Special Vehicles Team (SVT) produced a special SVT Cobra which was powered by a 302-cubic inch V-8 mill which was good for 235 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque.

1988 Ford Mustang:

In ’88, only little changes were made to the Mustang. In this year alone, Ford sold 68,468 units of the Mustang. The California Mustang GT was hooked up with a mass airflow sensor in place of the speed density system.

1989 Ford Mustang:

The mass airflow system was introduced to all Mustang models and a Mustang Pony with the inscription “25 years” was placed on the dashboard of all Mustangs produced between 17^th April 1989 and 17^th April 1990 to mark the model’s 25^th anniversary.

1990 Ford Mustang:

Ford released 2,000 limited edition models which were meant to continue the 25^th anniversary celebrations. Driver’s side airbag was also offered as standard equipment for the first time on the Mustang.

1991 Ford Mustang:

This year saw an increase in the base Mustang’s power output. The 2.3 L engine produced 105 horses. 5-spoke 16X7 cast aluminum wheels were offered for V-8 powered Mustangs.

1992 Ford Mustang:

’92 was not a good year for the Mustang as sales were on a downward trend. To boost the Mustang’s image, Ford produced a limited-edition Mustang convertible. The convertible featured among other things a rear spoiler.

1993 Ford Mustang:

In ’93, the automaker’s Special Vehicle Team released a limited-production SVT Mustang Cobra.  The Team also released a Cobra R version. The Cobra R was specifically produced for racing purposes; as such, it lacked a stereo system and air conditioning. The model was so popular that it sold out before its production commenced. This marked the end of the third-generation Ford Mustang production run.

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The Mustangs were sold in 2-door coupes or 3-door hatchbacks. Two engines were on offer, they were the base 140 cu in, inline-4 which produced 88 hp and 171 cu in, Cologne V-6 rated at 105 hp. In ’73, Ford significantly expanded the dimensions of the Mustang, a fact that didn’t go down well with many enthusiasts who demanded the next Ford Mustang return to the original size.

Overwhelmed by the number of complaints from the buyers, Ford downsized the model which they based on the subcompact Ford Pinto as opposed to the compact Maverick. The new Mustang was 19 inches shorter and weighed 490 pounds less than the 1973 model. The ’74 model was meant to take the Mustang back to its roots.

Though the new design was a huge hit that saw the model sell over 385,993 which was only comparable to the first year of the model’s introduction back in 1964, many buyers were unhappy with the automaker’s decision not to offer the V-8 engine (it was only offered in Mexico).

The second generation Mustang through the years

The 1975 Ford Mustang

Ford listened to consumer complaints and in ’75; the automaker brought back the V-8 engine but the 302-cubic inch 4.94 L, V-8 was not what many enthusiasts hoped for. Unlike the more capable V-8 engines of the previous years, the engine was only good for 140 horses and was offered only with an automatic transmission.

Due to the engine’s almost 5-liter displacement, Ford christened it the “5.0” which made this Mustang the first ever Mustang with an official metric. The 5.0 metric would stay through to the ‘80s and the early ‘90s. It was synonymous with performance power in new generation Mustang models.

To fit the V-8 engine on the small body, the head panel, engine bay and front fenders of the 1975 model were revised. Other changes to the 1975 Ford Mustang included opera windows on its vinyl roof and additional performance options.

The 1976 Ford Mustang

In 1976, Ford released the Mustang Cobra II which was inspired by Shelby. This model was targeted to racing enthusiasts as track racing was fast catching up as the favorite weekend activity for American auto lovers.

The model featured a non-functional hood scoop, front and rear spoilers as well as racing stripes in white and blue or black and gold. However, despite looking the part, the Mustang was not as powerful as the original Shelby Mustang which is what mattered to performance-oriented buyers.

The 1978 Mustang

The most notable addition in 1978 was the King Cobra Mustang. This was a limited edition Ford Mustang. Only 5,000 units were produced. In addition, it was the first Mustang to wear the “5.0” badge. The model was unique in that it featured a Pontiac Trans-Am hood and a prominent air dam.

This package was offered only on V-8 powered Mustangs. Several changes were also made to the Cobra II in both 1978 and 1979. Other features were largely unchanged and this quietly marked the end of the second-generation Ford Mustang.

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Out of that Vision the Mustang was born, a model that went on to be at the forefront of the American automotive tradition. This is despite the fact that the Mustang is neither exotic nor rare. In fact handcrafting is not part of the Mustang production. The model’s biggest selling point over the years has been the fact that it offers a sporty and stylish appeal at an affordable price.

The first Ford Mustang rolled out of the factory line on 9^th March 1964. To save on production costs, the Mustang borrowed most components from the Falcon. The car was offered in a host of exterior, interior and engine options. You could get the Mustang the way you desired it, whether plain, fancy, fast or even economical. Ford wanted the Mustang to suit different tastes of the consumers.

After heavy advertising prior to its release in all major TV networks, its debut on 17^th April 1964 was met by 22,000 purchases. That year alone, the automaker sold 263,434 units and at the end of it first year in the market, the model had sold 418,812 units.

Just like that, the Mustang had cut a name for itself, a name that would stick till this day.

The First Generation  1964-1973 Ford Mustang over the Years

The 1964 ½ Ford Mustang

The first model to roll out of the production line was a convertible painted in Wimbledon White. It preceded the actual public debut in Flushing Meadows, New York. Commonly referred as the ’64 ½, the first generation Mustang was offered in coupe and convertible bodies.

The base engine was a 170-cubic inch, 6-cylinder mill paired with a 3-speed floor transmission system. A 260-cubic inch V-8 paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox or a 3-speed automatic transmission was also offered. As said earlier, the model was based on the Falcon platform. The Mustang featured bucket seats, wheel covers and a padded dashboard.  The model had a starting price of $2,320.

Late 1965 Mustang

The popularity of the Mustang didn’t go unnoticed, a few months after its debut; Carroll Shelby approached Lee Lacocca with an aim to make a high-performing Mustang.  Upon approval, Shelby fitted a revised K-code 289cid V-8 engine on a Fastback 2X2 version of the Mustang. The engine produced 306 horses. The model was dubbed Shelby GT350 Street.

The model made a debut in January 1965. In addition to this high performing iteration, a new engine lineup was added for the 1965 model year. A GT lineup was also introduced. A 200-inch, 6-cylinder mill replaced the 170-cubic inch engine as the base engine. The 260-cubic inch V-8 was replaced by a 289-cubic inch V-8.  A variety of engine tunings was also offered. V-8 GT Mustangs were hooked up with racing stripes, GT badges and dual exhaust tips.

1966 Mustang

In 1966, Ford had already sold over a million units of the Mustang. Not wanting to mess up with things, the automaker only revised the grille, wheel covers and added a new instrument cluster as well as a new paint work and new interior features.

1967 Mustang

A more comprehensive overhaul was done in 1967. The notchback roofline was replaced by a fastback roofline. Other new features included an extended nose, a wider chassis, a bigger grille and triple taillights. The result was a more aggressive Mustang.

Shelby also released a performance oriented model dubbed Shelby GT500 which was powered by a 355 hp V-8 mill. This model helped the Mustang create a name for itself on the race tracks. Perhaps the most famous Ford Mustang from this production year is legendary GT 500 Eleanor.

1968 Mustang

In 1968, a 302-cubic inch V8 mill replaced the 289 V-8 aka ‘Hi-Po”. A 427-cubic inch V-8 good for 390 horses was also released. However, the most notable event for the Mustang was its use in the movie “Bullitt”.

In the movie, Steve McQueen raced a customized Mustang GT-390 Fastback through San Francisco.  Ford would later build a special-edition Mustang in 2001 to commemorate this fete.

1969 Mustang

During this year, the Mustang’s exterior profile underwent a significant change. The model was fitted with a longer body and the Fastback was replaced by a new name “Sportsroof”. A new engine rated at 220 hp was also introduced. This year also saw the debut of the “Windsor V-8 engine”.

A number of special-edition Mustangs were also offered, they were the Shelby GT350, GT500, Boss 302, 429 and Mach 1. A Grand luxury model was also offered. During this year the long time associate of Ford, Carroll Shelby requested his name to cease being associated with the mustang. Later in the year, Carroll Shelby lost control of the Shelby design.

1970 Mustang

Only subtle changes were made on the 1970 Ford Mustang.

1971 Mustang

In ‘71, Ford made the biggest Mustang ever. It was almost a foot longer than its predecessors were. It was also 600 pounds heavier than its predecessors were. The Boss 302,429, Shelby GT350, GT500 were removed from the lineup.

1972 Mustang

In ’72, Ford introduced a Sprint model which had a red, blue and white exterior paintwork and a matching interior styling.

1973 Mustang

A fuel shortage in 1973 diminished sales as buyers sought fuel-efficient cars. This forced Mustang designers to go back to the drawing board. This marked the end of the first generation Mustang. In addition, the convertible was discontinued. This was also the last time the Mustang was based on the Falcon-platform.

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Angry, Henry Ford II instructed his performance department to come up with a Ferrari “slayer”. The first attempt was a huge disappointment with the vehicle developing mechanical problems; in fact, the car never finished any race. Disappointed but not ready to give up, Ford turned to Shelby and sometime later they rolled out the GT40 and boy finally Ford had a real muscle car.

Shortly after its debut in 1966 Ford produced a shocking podium sweep at the 24 Hours of Le Mans making the car the first American race car to win at Le Mans. In so doing, the vehicle helped Ford get the better of Ferrari. The sweet victory helped create probably the most classical revenge story of the motoring world.

The GT40 would go on to dominate the race tracks winning it four times in a row at LeMans as well as achieve victories in other race tracks in the world. Now, 50 years later, Ford in collaboration with Shelby American, Superformance and Safir GT40 are set to release a new 2016 Shelby GT40 based on the original model in commemoration of the GT40 exploits of the late ‘60s.

2016 Shelby GT40 Exterior

The 50^th anniversary cars look identical to the original cars of the 1966. The designers paid a great deal of attention to ensure they got everything right. Every detail is included, from its rounded nose, muscular front fenders, the two scoops behind the engine hood, beefed-up haunches with cooling air intakes to the gold wheels; everything is as it were 50 years ago.

Even the Gurney bubble situated at the top of the driver’s side door is featured. Did you know that the roof bubble was added to create room for Dan Gurney? At 6’4”, the guy struggled to fit into the cockpit hence the creative roof bubble to allow Gurney’s helmet to fit in. Later the feature was nicknamed “Gurney’s bubble”.

The car can be had in three color trims according to the personalities who drove them. The first is the black with silver stripes i.e. McLaren edition, then there is the Ken Miles edition featuring Blue with White stripes and the Dan Gurney edition which features Red with White stripes.

Over 90% of the car parts including its steel monocoque are in fact interchangeable with the original parts.

2016 Shelby GT40 Interior

Just like the exterior, the interior is identical to the original vehicle except for a few alterations and additions.  The seats however lack the original bolstering while the center console is molded with a different shape. Superperformance has maintained the right-hand drive and right hand shift configuration just as the original car which am sure Carroll Shelby would commend. Smith-style gauges still remain.

The cabin has also gained some basic modern necessities such as  a new air-conditioning system, an adjustable pedal box, Carroll Shelby-branded mats, Bilstein shocks that come with H&R springs and a parking brake lever. Despite the new additions and changes, the cabin of the replica still looks authentic.

Engine Specs

The vehicle comes without an engine and buyers will have to look for their own engine However, the recommended unit is a 7.0 L, V-8 which is built by Shelby. The engine a Shelby aluminum-block 427 FE V-8 is rated at 625 hp.

Originally, the engine used to produce 485 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque. Each engine comes with its own badge stating the number in the limited series it is. The numbers start at GT40 P 20150 to 2069. Shelby will also list this particular sequence number in its own official registry since it is a licensed product.

Price and release date

To get your hands on the 50^th Anniversary Shelby GT40 you will need to spend $ 169,995 for the rolling chassis only. The engine is sold separately. According to sources, the engine will cost between $ 50,000 and $ 60,000. This means to get a complete car, you will need to spend in excess of $ 220,000.

If you have that dough you better hurry and make an order as only 20 units will be produced…wait a minute, I think you might have already missed the chance as these cars sell out moments after the an automaker starts accepting orders.

If you miss out on the 2016 Shelby GT40, check whether the Shelby Cobra Daytona Coupe 50^th Anniversary is still available but similarly only 50 units will be built.

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In fact, the F-100 was able to maintain this rating until it was discontinued in 1983 after 6-generations. Along the way the model was very successful and was among Ford’s bestselling vehicles for many years.

Design and changes over the years

The Ford F-100 saw the introduction of two cargo trays and discontinuation of the Cab-Over Series on the F-1.The first was referred to as Flareside and had a traditional body with a separate fender. The second was known as Styleside and had a smooth shape compared to the former.

Being the smallest of the F-Series, the F-100 had a more utilitarian interior than its siblings. The early models interior was full of cheap plastics and lacked many interior basic features. However, with time and courtesy of the changing technology the models got more basic features such as radio and air conditioning. The plastics were also improved over time. Though the cabin was spacious offering plenty of headroom and legroom, the middle passenger legroom was constrained by the transmission tunnel that ran through the middle of the cabin.

Later, the model received a uni-body styling that integrated the cab with the cargo tray. This continued until 1963. In 1965, a twin L-beam front suspension was introduced. The model remained largely unchanged until 1977 when a new grille design was introduced. It was also hooked up with rectangular headlights in place of the rounded ones. Also, it featured new disc plates, coil springs on its suspension and longer cab length for more passenger space.

In 1980, the last generation of the F-100 was produced with a new chassis and a larger body. The model was more aerodynamic and had a better fuel efficiency. In 1982, Ford added the famous “Blue Oval” logo at the center of its grille and finally in 1983 the half-ton F-100 production run spanning 6 generations came to an end.

The downfall of the F-100 was as a result of the introduction of another half-ton pickup truck, the F-150 which stole the limelight from the former. The F-150 was introduced in 1975 and immediately tore into the sales of the F-100 leading to the latter’s demise in 1983.

Fast forward to 2016 and you will find the F-150 sitting pretty at the top of this segment as others play catch-up game particularly in the US market.

Ford F-100 Engine and performance

The Ford F-100 was powered by a straight -6 engine which produced 75 kW (101 hp) of power. For 1954 and 1955, the vehicle was hooked up with an optional Y-block V8 engine that produced 97 kW (130 hp) of power which was tuned to 125 kW (170 hp) in 1956.

The two engines continued with the second generation but were tweaked for more power for the third generation from 1961 to 1964. The 262 CID I-6 produced 98 kW while the V8 produced 130kW. After 1964, the I-6 was tweaked to produce 110 kW. The V8 was hooked up with fuel injection which helped it produce 155 kW (207 hp) and pumped the power to 160 kW (215 hp) in 1968.

For 1969 Ford replaced the V-8 with a Windsor V8 which delivered 153 (204) kW. Lastly for 1973 the I-6 was downgraded to produce 97 kW (130 hp) while the V-8 power also reduced to 107 kW (143 hp).

Throughout, the I-6 remained strong and reliable. The engine could accelerate fast enough from standstill and could overtake other models in open roads. However, for fully loaded F-100’s, the I-6 engine experienced some difficulties which the V-8 readily solved. The V-8 offered a boost in acceleration and overall performance. It was the choice for those who wanted a more exciting ride even when carrying huge loads of cargo.

On the down-turn, the vehicle had a poor stability and could often be taken off track by crosswinds. Its steering was also a bit loose. These features were improved in the comprehensive redesign of the 1980.

Ford F-100 Competition

Back then, Ford trucks barely had any competition. The F-100 roamed the countryside without much care as there were no other comparable models. This might sound weird but believe you me it is only in 1971 that the F-100 faced considerable competition from the Nissan B120. This vehicle had a better fuel economy but it lacked the F-100’s cargo capacity and power.

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In days gone by, the model was so popular that in 1982, the F-Series was the top-selling vehicle in the US (both cars and trucks combined). The reason behind these awesome results is the Ford’s resolve to improve the model consistently. Today, the model has evolved to a high-tech 4-wheeled machine that in addition to being a work truck doubles up as a luxury hauler.

The F-Series traces its origin to 1948. This was the first post-war truck that Ford produced. The model represented Ford’s break from the car chassis to a new and dedicated truck platform. The models were assembled at 16 different factories. The first generation of the F-Series models production run continued through to 1952.

Ford F-Series Design

The model was sold in four body styles, there were the pickup trucks, panel trucks but based on the pickup, COE (Cab-Over-Engine) chassis, school bus chassis, and medium to heavy duty conventional trucks which shared the body-work of the smaller F-Series trucks. The F1-F3 models were the most common. These models were further offered in three different body styles. The F-1 with a 6 ½ -foot bed was the most common. The others were the F-2 and F-3 with 8-foot beds.

The truck had a flat-one piece windshield which was integrated with its headlights. The grille included jus a series of horizontal bars while the headlights were set way into the fenders. It also featured a wider cab than the car-based pick-up truck it was replacing.

Under the hood, the F-Series was powered by a 226-cid flathead six-cylinder engine which produced 95 hp. The flathead V-8 was also used in some trucks.

The first generation 1948 Ford F-Series was sold up to 1952. From hence, the naming scheme of the F-Series changed, the F-1 became the F-100 while the F-2 and F-3 were combined to form the F-250, and the F-4 became the F-350. The conventional F-Series models became the F-500 to F-900 while the COE chassis became the C-Series trucks.

Following is a brief summary of the F-Series first generation variations from 1948 to 1952;

Ford F-Series 1948- 2012

1949

The red pinstripes on its silver painted grille bars were deleted. Its wheels were painted to match its body color moving from the 1948 models black wheels.

1950

Its 3-speed gear shifter was moved from the floor to the steering column.

1950 Ford F3

1951

A single bar grille was introduced and headlights were located at each end of the bar. The grille was also painted silver to augur with the chromed headlamps bezels. The hood also got new side spears and a 3-slot embellishment at the front. The front bumpers, pickup bed as well as its tailgate were also modified. The bed was changed to hardwood as opposed to the predecessor’s all metal bed. Door panels were introduced and the windows were enlarged.

Two cab trims were also offered, they were the Five Star standard Cab and the deluxe Five Star Extra Cab. The Five Star Extra Cab added extra-sound deafening materials, foam seat padding, two-tone seat upholstery, locks and armrests and a dome light.

1951 Ford F1

1952

The VIN plate was placed at the rear face of the driver’s door. It used to identify the vehicle’s model year, assembly factory and its production sequence. A new 6-cylinder engine with overhead valves was introduced. It produced 101 hp compared to 95 hp of the model it was replacing.

Fast forward to 2016 and you will get power adjustable and heated seats, infotainment system, a sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, color display screens, a trailer management system, rearview camera and  the list goes on…This shows how far the automotive world has come from and the revolution continues. All the same, hats off to this model as it helped transform the sector.

1948 Ford F-Series Interior

1948-1951

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During this time, the V-8 engine was only available in expensive luxury cars and sport cars which were beyond the reach of the many people in the working class. The introduction of this engine also served as Ford’s response to Chevrolet’s straight-6 engine which was superior to Ford’s 4-cylinder mill.

This was Henry Ford’s last great contribution to the automotive industry.

The V8 itself

Some years earlier, Henry Ford had revolutionized the automotive industry by his innovative production line that was more efficient, effective and fast in churning out many cars for the masses. This time also, Ford wanted to be unique and unlike other V8s of the time which used multiple blocks, Ford developed a single cylinder block in order to reduce production costs.

The engine had a displacement of 3.6 liters and also had a 90-degree side-valve. The design helped Ford produce around 1 million units from 1932 to 1934. The engine used to produce 65 hp but was later tuned to 75 hp in 1933 and 85 hp in 1934.

1932 Ford model 18

Though Ford wanted to use the V8 on all the cars, the automaker offered an option for the 4-cylinder cylinders as a backup in case the V-8 became a failure. These models were dubbed the Model B. On the other hand, the models with the V8 engines were called Model 18 which meant the 1^st V8. In terms of looks and interior styling, the two cars were identical.

1932 V8 convertible

The bank robbers and hot rodders choice

At the time, the V8 set a new standard for mass market cars. Though Ford V8 produces less horsepower than the Chevrolet and Plymouth (two other low-priced models of the time) the Ford model 18 was quickest of the three.

This particular specs enticed many performance-minded customers including the infamous bank robber John Dillinger.  Bank robbers liked the Ford as it offered fast getaways. Hot rodders were not left out either. A few enhancements would make the V8 pump out even more power.  Shortly after its debut, the cottage industry was churning the V8’s performance parts.

Ford V8 Engine

1932 Ford V8 Body styles

All the models including the model B featured wire wheels, black fenders and a rear-mounted spare wheel. Cars with a tailgate had their spare wheels mounted on the sides. Twin side-mounts, a luggage rack, white wall tires and color keyed wheels on the outside and leather or Broadcloth, on the inside were offered as options. The models came in a number of body styles and were offered in two trims i.e. either standard or deluxe.

The body styles included; 2-door roadsters, 4-door phaeton, 2-doorcabriolet, 2 and 4-door sedans, 4-door station wagon commonly known as the “woodie”, 2-door Victoria, 5-window coupe, a sport coupe with a stationary soft-top, a 3-window Deluxe Coupe, a 2-door convertible sedan and a pickup.

V8 Pickup Truck

Price of 1932 Ford V8

The 1932 Ford V8 had a starting price of $ 495 for the roadster while the coupes sold for $ 490. The sedans were the most expensive at $ 650. In that year alone, the automaker sold 298,647 units of the V8-powered 18s. Actually, Ford could not keep up with the huge demand.

The V-8 was so much a hit that it made its 4-cylinder twin obsolete. In fact, dealers had to persuade buyers to turn to the 4-cylinder model B. One of the reasons for its poor showing was that it was just $ 10 cheaper than the V-8. The model was discontinued shortly later.

The Ford model 18 and model B are today very valuable collectibles with collectors willing to pay thousands of dollars for well restored models.

1932 V8 HotRod

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In fact, before the 2000 movie, the Shelby GT500 was never referred to as Eleanor. The 2000 movie was a remake of HB Halicki’s 1974 movie with the same title. During the original movie, a Ford Mustang Mach-1 was used. Unlike the 200 movie, the Eleanor of the 1974 movie needed no special modification since it was among the best muscle cars of the time.

The making of Eleanor

In the 2000 movie, things were a little different, using a classic Ford Mustang amid the likes of Ferraris and Lamborghinis, the Mustang would have looked out of class and the European supercars would end up stealing the show. All attention needed to be focused on Eleanor and though the producers could have chosen a European muscle car to act the role without the need of any modification that would have lost the spirit of the original movie. The role had to be played by an American born and blend muscle car.

Before selecting the 1967 Ford Shelby GT 500, the producers had toyed with the idea of using the very rare and expensive Ford GT40. However, they shelved the idea of using the GT40 due to the difficult stunts that needed to be performed. However, the wheels of the Eleanor were borrowed from the GT40.

The transformation

The original Mustang wasn’t good enough to fit the bill on its own and had to undergo a rigorous transformation. The models were “souped” up at Yukon, Oklahoma where you can still get your GT500 transformed to the Eleanor at a cost of around $ 109,000.

To create an Eleanor, the GT500 is fitted with a 401 c.i racing engine featuring aluminum heads up front, ,an aluminum cross-flowing radiator, a pair of 12-inch cooling fans ceramic coated headers, a Mass Flo fuel injector system, and a Concept 1serpentine belt drive system,

The base model pumps out 535 hp while the reworked engine comes all out with 770 hp but the more potent models attract an $189,000 price tag. The power is channeled to the rear wheels via a 5-speed Tremec or an automatic system. To ensure the vintage body doesn’t quake under all this pressure, the body is held in check by plenty of bracing.

1967 Ford Mustang GT 500 Eleanor Interior styling

The cabin of the GT500 has been overhauled. The new interior features new seats with 5-point harnesses, a wood and aluminum trimmed steering wheel as well as deluxe trimmings from the 1967 models. New features you could not get in the 60s are a NOS system and a red button fixed on the dash and shift knob respectively. At the back there is no trunk space as the space is occupied by a humongous tank of nitrous.

Its windows and doors are operated manually and though the vehicle has an air con it does little to ease the temperatures.
Simply put, there is nothing else interesting about the Eleanor apart from driving it. You can imagine it features a single button in the entire cabin which operates the stereo. Unlike the modern machines, here there are no connectivity features like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or USB ports. Its dual exhaust pipes barely contain the engines explosions and it is in fact one of the loudest cars around. It can in fact set off parked car alarms.

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In the late 1950’s the brand was struggling as many people dismissed its models as just homely. However, the 1961 Lincoln Continental would soon change all that. During its maiden debut, the model’s simple and elegant design became an instant sensation and made its rivals look irrelevant and old. The vehicle perfectly fitted the Kennedy’s era of renewal and optimism.

Actually, the Lincoln Continental was originally meant to be a two-door concept of the iconic Ford Thunderbird. When Ford’s president of the time Robert S. McNamara saw its design in the studio, he figured out that the vehicle would better serve as a 4-door car and act as Lincoln’s saving grace.

Excellent design that stunned the motoring world

The 1961 Lincoln Continental design was so excellent that it would go on to influence other models in future like the Buick Riviera and Pontiac Grand Prix of 1963 as well as the Imperial of 1964.

The design was an excellent piece of art that didn’t rely on chrome garnish or 3-color trims like other models of the time. The exterior profile features clean and uncluttered lines with perfect proportions. The vehicle featured not even a single extraneous decoration. It had smaller exterior dimensions compared to the model it was replacing.

The continental stretched 212.4 inches from 227 inches and had its wheelbase reduced from 131 inches to 123 inches. It weighed around 5,000 pounds. Perhaps the most stunning design feature of the 1961 Continental was its rear doors which were hung from the rear and were opened from the front. This style was christened “suicide door” and later became an alias for the vehicle. The continental was offered as a 4-door sedan and as a 4-door convertible.

Drive-train and price

The 1961 Lincoln Continental was not only an attractive piece of art, rather it also packed huge power and delivered a sort of performance that backed its good looks. Under the hood, it was fitted with a 430 cu in, OHV V8 engine that delivered between 300 and 320 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. The engine was paired with a 3-speed automatic transmission system which sent power to the rear wheels.

As for the price, the continental was for the wealthy who needed a stylish, luxurious and quiet ride. The vehicle had a price of $ 6,067.

The sad history of the 1961 Lincoln Continental

The 1961 Continental was a car beloved by many even in the highest political office in the country. The Continental carried John F. Kennedy, US president of the time.

The secret service and Ford designers together transformed the continental to a presidential limousine. In 1963 the President was assassinated in Dallas while riding in this car. To commemorate his death, the car is exhibited at the Henry Ford museum in Dearborn, Mich.

A bouquet of flowers is often placed at the rear right of the car where the president sat when he was assassinated in 22^nd November 1963. While Kennedy’s death altered the course of the country, it also altered the course of the Continental. The 1961 Continental went on to become one of the most-travelled, antiquated, and reconstructed and the most visited vehicle in the US history.

The Continental is often referred to as an automatic icon and an historic artifact with a death story in the background.

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