It's official. 42 years after Ford approved the original Boss 302 created by the famed designer Larry Shinoda, an all-new one will arrive for the 2012 model year. According to the official Ford press release, the Boss 302 is "set to become the quickest, best-handling straight-production Mustang ever offered by Ford, based on the world-class foundation provided by the 2011 Mustang GT." This is yet another sample of the amazing new product from Ford these days.
When compared to the current Camaro and Challenger, the Mustang continues to knock them out in both performance and factory produced special editions. Granted, both GM and Chrysler are still navigating their way out of trouble in post-bankruptcy, so they're not in any position to go all out with limited editions. Ford was fortunate enough to recognize their sorry display of finances and lack of good product before the recession struck. By reorganizing in both financial and product terms a few years ago, allows for something such as the Boss 302 to exist today.
Upgraded in almost every way including engine output, brakes, suspension, interior and exterior appearance, and weight loss, it will be incorporating a refined racing oriented suspension along with a 440 horsepower version of Ford's wonderful 5.0-liter V8. Basically, it'll have more of everything than the current GT, but have a similar weight to the V6 model. Perhaps one of the coolest things is that it's entirely factory produced without sending it out to a tuning house, such as the case with many Shelby Mustangs.
Everything here is 100% done by Ford in-house. It has a race-inspired six-speed manual with short-throws and close ratios that shine best when on the track. Bear in mind, this thing is not the best daily driver - it doesn't even have a backseat (it weighs too much)- it's designed and built for the true Mustang and/or racing enthusiast who spends their free time at the race track. Final pricing hasn't been announced, nor has an official release date. Ford is calling it a very early 2012 model, so it'll probably go on sale in the spring of 2011.
It will be available in both spec and special edition Laguna Sec trims and will no doubt become a highly sought after collectible in the future. Not only is Ford producing cool cars again, but it's all embracing a true car enthusiast spirit. Credit the entire Ford management, design, and product planning teams for making sure the company is back on track. The Boss 302 is proof of their devotion to building great and iconic cars.