2009.5 Ford Mustang Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Revealed

How does Lee Iacocca, the “godfather” of the Ford Mustang, celebrate the pony car’s 45th anniversary? Simple: He helps build one of his own.

Enter the new Iacocca Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Mustang, built in partnership with Metalcrafters, a custom fabrication shop based in Fountain Valley, Calif. In deference to the original Mustang, launched halfway between 1964 and 1965 model years, Iacocca calls the new special edition a “2009.5.” Indeed, the modified Mustang is built from a 2009 Ford Mustang GT, not the newly introduced 2010 model.

Still, we can’t help but think the new front fascia, installed as part of the Iacocca treatment, looks quite similar to the 2010 Mustang’s angular snout. In addition to the rhinoplasty, Metalcrafters also massaged the Mustang’s roofline, drawing the fastback roof to the edge of the trunklid. It’s certainly attractive, but it reminds us much more of the second-generation Mustang, not the original ’64.5…

Mechanically, the Iacocca Mustang benefits from a host of Ford Racing performance parts. Stiffer springs and new dampers are par for the course, while an upgraded 14-inch disc brake kit is available. Buyers will also have the choice of a 4.6-liter V-8 in either naturally aspirated (320 hp) or supercharged (400 hp) forms, mated to the stock five-speed manual transmission.

Silver 45th Anniversary Edition Mustangs will also come equipped with “Iacocca Diamond Design” leather seats, customized door sill plates, and a signed dash plaque. Only 45 cars will be built, each carrying a price tag of approximately $60,000. If you’re interested, visit www.ilegacy.com for more information.