Ford & Roush Performance Unveil Latest WWII Aviation-themed Mustang

By Brett Foote - July 18, 2019

‘Old Crow’ Ford Mustang pays tribute to one of World War II’s most decorated pilots, and benefits deserving programs.

Each year, Ford builds a special Mustang for the Experimental Aircraft Association’s AirVenture air show. And the purpose of these cool projects are twofold. Each pays tribute to a legendary P-51 Mustang pilot, for starters. Then, during the show, each car is auctioned off, with all proceeds going to support EAA’s youth and adult aviation programs. Many of which help prepare the next generation of America’s great pilots. This year, Ford and Roush Performance have teamed up to create a killer Mustang they call “Old Crow.”

This special 2019 Mustang pays homage to World War II triple ace pilot Colonel Bud Anderson of the U.S. Army Air Force. Along with the legendary P-51 Mustang fighter planes he flew in combat, also nicknamed Old Crow. The car features a custom paint scheme and badges replicating Col. Anderson’s iconic P-51 Mustang fighter plane. Up front, you’ll find a custom Roush grille with P-51 Mustang badge. The words “Old Crow” are written on the hood, and there’s an authentic Eighth Air Force emblem badge on the decklid panel.

The exterior also features Roush rear fascia aerofoils, a Ford Performance front racing spoiler, a 2020 GT500 rear spoiler, custom heat extractors on the hood, and blue rainbow-tinted exhaust tips that emulate the exhaust on the P-51 Mustang planes. Rounding out the car’s unique looks are a set of custom 20-inch lightweight Roush wheels wrapped in 275/35R Continental ExtremeContact sport tires.

Pop the hood, and you’ll undoubtedly notice a Roush Performance TVS R2650 supercharger. Along with a Roush cold air induction system and X pipe, the Gen 3 Coyote now pumps out 710 hp and 610 lb-ft of torque. The aircraft theme carries over to the Mustang’s cabin, too. There you’ll find military-themed green leather, as well as a canvas and red shifter knob and door handles. P-51 is written on the passenger-side dashboard. The interior also sports Sparco four-point harnesses as well as an aluminum rear seat-delete.

It’s a fitting tribute to one of World War II’s most decorated pilots. Col. Anderson achieved more than 16 aerial victories in Europe. He flew 116 combat missions, including a six-hour mission on D-Day. He was never struck by enemy fire or forced to withdraw from an aerial engagement during his career. Col. Anderson’s service earned him more than 25 decorations including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and Air Medal.

“Heroes like Col. Bud Anderson have become true living legends in the 75 years since the Allied invasion of Normandy,” said Craig Metros, Ford design director. “Ford is proud to team up with Roush Performance to honor Col. Anderson and all of the brave servicemen and servicewomen who risked their lives during World War II, all while raising funds for the Experimental Aircraft Association, which helps make flying more accessible to America’s youth.”

The “Old Crow” Mustang GT will be displayed during EAA’s AirVenture show from July 22-28. Event attendees can get an up close look before the car is auctioned on July 25 at the annual EAA AirVenture auction – The Gathering. Bids can be made in person or online. For bidding information on “Old Crow,” call 920.426.6573 or email gathering@EAA.org.