America’s favourite sports car gets even more style and technology for 2019 thanks to the revival of the legendary Mustang GT California Special, new technology features including rev-matching on 5-litre V8 manual-equipped models, the first-ever custom-tuned B&O Play premium audio system for Mustang and three new vintage-inspired colours (Velocity Blue, Need For Green and the Bullitt model’s exclusive Dark Highland Green) and over-the-top stripes.
When Mustang first hit the streets in 1964, owners clubs sprang up around the country, with many regional dealers creating their own personalised pony car designs. One, inspired by the 1967 Shelby GT notchback coupe prototype, came to be called the California Special.
That original version featured blacked-out grille, foglamps and a side racing stripe that ended ahead of a new rear fender scoop. It wore a Shelby-inspired spoiler, custom tail-lamps and twist-lock hood fasteners. Impressed, Ford put a limited number of California Special cars into production for 1968. Before long, the California Special had joined the ranks of Shelby, Boss and Mach 1 special-edition Mustangs.
Today, the 2019 California Special for Mustang GT is a visual standout, featuring a trademark fading stripe that traces from the 5.0 side badge to the rear fender scoop. A signature California Special badge with Ebony Black and Race Red script adorns the trunk lid. At the front, the car follows the blacked-out open grille and picks up the Mustang Performance Pack 1 splitter. The California Special wears unique five-spoke painted machined wheels.
Inside, driver and passengers will discover rich black Miko suede-trimmed seats with embossed GT/CS insignia and contrast red accent stitching, and custom-embroidered GT/CS floor mats. Signature California Special script badging appears on the passenger-side dash panel.
Check out the 50th anniversary Ford Mustang Bullitt.
Read about a Melbourne driving holiday in a Ford Mustang GT Convertible.
