Ford Racing announces plans for 2010 Mustang Cobra Jet

At last year's SEMA show, Ford unveiled the latest Mustang to join the Ford Racing stable, the FR500CJ Cobra Jet. The purpose-built drag racer came standard with go-fast parts from the Ford Racing catalog, including a 400 horsepower version of the 5.4-liter supercharged V8 (de-tuned to meet specifications needed for NHRA's AA Stock class) and a drag-specific wheel and tire combination. The 2009 model was a success both with customers and on the track. Ford Racing sold the entire run of fifty cars in less than two weeks, and it won its very first race at the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, CA back in February.

Building on that success, Ford Racing announced today that it will be building a 2010 version of the Cobra Jet, with production to begin during the fourth quarter with deliveries taking place in early 2010. The base price is expected to be less than $75,000, and once again production will be limited to just fifty units. Like the 2009 model, the 2010 Cobra Jet will be modified with all Ford Racing parts including the supercharged 5.4-liter V8 that is now rated at 425 horsepower. Perhaps the most exciting news is the availability of an optional 475 horsepower aluminum block motor that we dearly hope will somehow find its way into a production car. Follow the jump for the press release from Ford Racing, and look for more details and photos to come around SEMA in November.

[Source: Ford Racing]

PRESS RELEASE:

Milan, Mich. - The 40th Anniversary 2008 Mustang Cobra Jet more than lived up to its billing, joining its historic predecessor-the original 1968 Cobra Jet in winning its inaugural race at the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, Calif. Now, Ford Racing is ready to update the latest Cobra Jet, and is announcing plans to build a 2010 version of the CJ. The announcement was officially made today at the National Mustang Racing Association event in Milan.

A little more than a year ago, Ford Racing announced plans to build a modern edition of the Cobra Jet. The limited run of 50 cars sold in less than two weeks, even before the first car was built. Once again Ford Racing will produce a limited run of 50 2010 Mustang CJs, the minimum number that must be produced in order to receive clearance from NHRA for competition.

Exact specifications are being finalized, but the initial plan is for the '10 Cobra Jet to have a 425-hp 5.4-liter supercharged engine from the Ford Racing Performance Parts catalog, but with an option to upgrade to an estimated 475-hp aluminum block engine. Likewise the 6-speed manual transmission that was available in the '08 Cobra Jet will be standard, but an option to upgrade to 5-speed Liberty manual transmission or a race prepped automatic transmission will be available. Other '10 Mustang Cobra Jet upgrades include an 8.50et NHRA certified roll cage and lightweight racing brakes.

"I've said from my first day in this job that I wanted Ford Racing to continue to be a 'racer-friendly' organization," said Wolfe. "That's why we take great pride in being one of only two car companies worldwide that builds ready-to-race cars and sells them as part of our performance parts offerings."

Component testing is underway and base pricing will be less than $75,000. Production is expected to begin during the fourth quarter with delivery expected in early 2010. Sportsmen racers interested in placing a pre-order for the '10 Cobra Jet should contact their local Ford Dealership.