Ford to produce 2010 Mustang Cobra Jet and body-in-white for racers

The 2009 Mustang FR500CJ Cobra Jet was introduced at last year's SEMA, and was immediately successful, going on to win it's first event at the NHRA Winternationals in Pomona, CA back in February. The entire run of 50 that were produced was sold out in two weeks.

Today Ford announced that it will indeed bring the car back for 2010. Production will begin in the fourth quarter and deliveries will start in early 2010. The base price is expected to be less than $75,000 and production will again be limited to 50 cars.

Much like the 2009 model, the '10 will be outfitted with a 5.4L supercharged V8 rated at 425hp, with an optional aluminum block 475hp motor being available. For more info, check the press release below.

Ford also announced that it will be offering a new body-in-white based on the new 2010 Mustang. The bare body shells will be available for racers looking to build their own race car. Ford will start taking orders in the fall, with delivery expected in December.

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.