This Mustang Daytona Was Forgotten for Decades Until It Was Found in Storage

Many don’t even realize that before them is the 1979 Mustang concept version, which Ford radically modified to demonstrate the potential of the Foxbody platform at auto shows. This unique prototype is preparing for sale at Mecum auction with an expected price of $80,000 to $100,000.

The car was developed by Cars and Concepts, and although five such examples were originally planned, only this one received the full set of modifications. What makes it even more valuable is that it is likely the only example that has remained operational, which is sure to interest serious Mustang collectors.

Inspired by the legendary Daytona, Cars and Concepts equipped the car with transparent headlight covers and a T-top roof. Later, such a roof became a factory option for the Foxbody, but in 1979 this solution made the car a real sensation.

Mecum Auctions

According to Mecum Auctions, this Mustang was displayed by Ford at auto shows in New York, Chicago, and Detroit in 1979. After the exhibitions, the car was used as a pace car at the Daytona races of the same year. Having fulfilled its public functions, it was stored in the Henry Ford Museum for 20 years before falling into private hands.

In 2005, the car was repainted in a bright red-orange color, which perfectly emphasized its retro style. Under the hood remains the original 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 paired with a four-speed manual transmission.

This is not just a museum piece – in 2024, the car received an award for exceptionality at the Cincinnati Concours d’Elegance, and its interior has been preserved in astonishing condition.

For those who want to acquire a unique piece of Mustang history, this lot is worth attention. You can learn more about it on the Mecum Auctions website.

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