HOUSTON - It’s been more than 42 years since Ford management gave its engineers the green light to build a special performance car that became the 1969 Mustang Boss 302. It remains one of the world’s most sought-after examples of American performance.

This year, Mustang enthusiasts are celebrating the return of the Mustang Boss that today, members of the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) named the “High Performance Car of Texas.” Every year, TAWA hosts a car challenge at Texas Motor Speedway (TMS) where automakers are invited to submit their vehicles for test drives by the group of automotive journalists. Hands down, the 2012 Mustang Boss 302 was a favorite yesterday at TMS.

"We are delighted that the 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302 has been named "High Performance Car of Texas" by the Texas Auto Writers Association, said Steve Ling, Ford Large and Performance Car Marketing Manager. "This recognition is a further sign of the momentum behind Ford Motor Company's latest products, and in particular the iconic status Mustang has achieved over the last 47 years. It is successful and exciting new products like Mustang that continue to differentiate Ford Motor Company as an automotive leader."