2009 P-51B Mustang Combines Plane, Car Features

ROUSH Performance today announced a new model in the P-51 series, initially launched at SEMA 2007, which features the same aviation-themed bodystyle used by ROUSH on Mustang P-51A. Dubbed P-51B, the new model is powered by the same 510 horsepower supercharged V8 engine as its predecessor but also includes a couple of new features supposed to make the difference between the old and the new version. For instance, the car has upgraded 14-inch front brakes with six-piston calipers, and all wheels now painted in black chrome with Cooper RS3 high-performance tires.

"The 2009 ROUSH P-51B is really the closest thing we can do to truly match the performance and styling of the fighter plane. Just like the airplane, the P-51B Mustang has the power to outrun most anything, can turn like virtually nothing else, and will make those other 'pilots' have second thoughts before engaging in a skirmish,” Jack Roush, the owner of the company, said.

Getting back to the engine, it is an upgraded Ford 4.6-liter 3-valve but with many internal components replaced, such as “stronger parts including forged aluminum pistons” for improved performance. Engineers have upgraded the clutch too, now including “a custom calibration for the ECM to manage the performance of the next-generation TVS2300 ROUSHcharger.”

Unfortunately, the price doesn't follow the same attractive trend imposed by the aforementioned parts, with suggested retail pricing starting at $65,800. A few options are also available, including a ROUSH trunk tool kit, enhanced ROUSH resonator exhaust plus an Escort Passport 9500ci radar/laser defense system. ROUSH offers 3 year/36,000 mile warranty for each of the 51 units (the manufacturer says the P-51B series will be limited to 51 units but it's likely to see up to 100 models in case of positive market feedback).