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DEARBORN -- The Mustang debut in NASCAR has been anxiously anticipated ever since Ford announced the iconic pony car would be competing on the track last summer.   Now, to help celebrate that debut, Ford Racing is giving its drivers even more incentive to be the first Mustang winner, and take their place in Mustang racing history.

Jamie Allison, director, Ford North America Motorsports, announced today that any Ford driver who wins Friday night’s Subway Jalapeno 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series event at Daytona International Speedway will receive their own 2011 5.0-liter Mustang GT production vehicle.

“Normally, when we go to a NASCAR race, the drivers are the recognized stars as far as fans are concerned.  That’s not the case this week.” said Allison.  “Mustang and its debut in NASCAR is undoubtedly a huge story for fans and enthusiasts, and we want to make its debut a little more special for our drivers competing in the race.  With a win, they have a chance to put their name down next to some of the Mustang racing legends.”

This will mark the second straight NASCAR appearance as the Daytona pace car for the 5.0 Mustang GT, which led the field to the green flag for the first time in its history at February’s Daytona 500.

“This week is all about celebrating Mustang in NASCAR,” said Allison.  “Fans will get to see the 2011 Mustang GT 5.0-liter pacing both races, and they’ll also see the start of a new era in Mustang Racing on track.

“Nothing would make me happier than to present one of our drivers the keys to their own 5.0 Mustang GT in Victory Lane on Friday night.”

About the 2011 Mustang GT
The new Mustang GT continues Ford’s powertrain offensive with an all-new 5.0-liter V-8, which uses advanced technology to deliver 412 horsepower and projected unsurpassed highway mileage of 25 mpg.
 
The 2011, Mustang GT adds specially tuned Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS), 11.5-inch front and 11.8-inch rear vented disc brakes, and an enhanced suspension featuring an improved rear lower control arm and stiffened rear stabilizer bushings.
 
For enthusiasts, a Brembo brake package, with larger rotors and calipers from the Ford Shelby GT500® Mustang, unique 19-inch wheels and summer performance tires, is offered; new fender badges herald return of the 5.0-liter engine.