Those who have some money to spare and like to drag race Mustangs while contributing to a good cause, listen up: during the 2013 Barrett-Jackson auction (September 26-28) in Las Vegas, Ford will sell a one-of-a-kind prototype of the 2014 Mustang Cobra Jet. The sample NHRA competition-ready model will be sold at no reserve on Saturday September 28, with proceeds from the sale going to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
The unique Mustang Cobra Jet cradles Ford’s 5.0 liter supercharged V8 mated to a T4 racing transmission, along with an optional traction “wheelie” bar, 8.50 ET certified chrome-moly safety cage, exclusive Cobra Jet-branded Weld wheels, three-link rear suspension, lightweight racing brakes, 9-inch rear axle, and custom Cobra-branded Recaro seats. The purpose-built factory race car was the prototype for the 2014 model year racer, carrying a unique serial number of #2014 BJMS CJXX1. The unique model is finished in a fiery orange satin hue with dark gray reflective stripes, while also featuring a distinctive license plate with the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s logo.
“The money to found Ford Motor Company came from Henry Ford’s only race as a driver, so you could say motorsports is in our blood,” says Dave Pericak, Mustang chief engineer. “This Cobra Jet is an awesome factory turn-key performer at the drag strip. It’s capable of approximately nine-second quarter mile runs as delivered from Ford. And we will include several once-in-a-lifetime experiences to the winning bidder. For example, few get to see the inner workings of the Ford Product Development Center and Ford Racing to learn how to leverage the Cobra Jet’s power. This information can then be taken to the track to immediately break into competitive racing.”
Besides walking away with what is undoubtedly a fast and drool-worthy piece of machinery, the winning bidder will also enjoy:
- Training at Roy Hill’s Drag Racing School in Sophia, N.C.
- Tour of the Ford Product Development Center and Ford Racing with Mustang Chief Engineer Dave Pericak, including a backstage pass into the Ford Design Studios
- Their experience captured for a future Mustang book and documentary
- Video of the vehicle build, testing and the action from Barrett-Jackson Las Vegas
“We’re proud to offer the opportunity for a serious competitor to up their game with this Mustang Cobra Jet,” says Steve Ling, North America car marketing manager for Ford. “But, just as important, we’re honored the proceeds will support the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s work with those living with this disabling disease of the central nervous system. Through our long-standing relationship with Barrett-Jackson, we continue to support charities through exceptional vehicle sales.”
Adding to its charitable efforts, The Blue Oval auctioned the last retail 2014 Ford Shelby GT500 convertible at the Hot August Nights Auction Presented by Barrett-Jackson to support the Brain Injury Association of America, an organization championed by 1963 Indianapolis 500 winner Parnelli Jones. Other organizations supported by Ford have included the Carroll Shelby Foundation and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Those in Vegas during the time of the auction who may not have several hundred thousand (or will it be million?) dollars to drop on the one-off Cobra Jet will still be able to have fun courtesy of Ford, as the automaker plans on offering Ride-and-Drives and hot-lap sessions to the public at the Mandalay Bay Event Center. The Ride-and-Drive will feature Ford’s elite stable of vehicles including the Shelby GT500, Boss 302 Mustang, Focus ST, Fiesta ST, while Shelby American will showcase its GT350, GT500 Super Snake, and Shelby Focus ST.
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