In a Historical Ruling, NHRA Approves ROUSH® Mustangs for Competition

LIVONIA, Mich. – Historically, the National Hot Rod Association has only approved powertrains for competition as they come from the factories in Detroit, but all that changed with the recent approval of the 2008 ROUSH® supercharged 4.6L V-8 in the Stage 3TM and P-51ATM Mustangs.  It is believed that this is the first time the NHRA has approved an aftermarket powertrain for competition.

The ROUSH® Mustangs will be allowed in the NHRA Stock and SuperStock categories as determined by the horsepower and shipping weight of the two vehicles.  Coupe or convertible chassis will be allowed with a horsepower of 430 for the Stage 3TM and 510 for the P-51ATM.  The shipping weight of the ROUSH® coupes is 3316 pounds, while a convertible weighs in at 3443 pounds.

Depending on the combination of coupe or convertible and the ROUSH® Stage 3TM or P-51ATM powertrain, the cars would be classified between AA Stock and B Stock or SuperStock A and F.  For further details regarding the authorized modifications and safety requirements consult the NHRA rule book or visit www.NHRA.com.

It is anticipated that the first team to campaign a ROUSH® Mustang in NHRA competition will be Haas, Carrothers & Wagner Racing.  The team, which has won three consecutive NHRA Division 3 championships (2004-2006), is currently building a ROUSH® Mustang with a Stage 3TM powertrain.

"As many people know, I first began my motorsports career in drag racing and had a lot of success in the NHRA over the years," said Jack Roush.  "I never lost my interest in the sport and have continued to follow it with great enthusiasm since moving on to road racing and now stock cars.  I think it is going to be very exciting to see a ROUSH® Mustang breaking the beams on the starting line and I really look forward to the day one of our cars captures that first 'Wally' (the nickname of the trophy awarded in NHRA competition in tribute to Wally Parks, the founder of the NHRA)."

Based in Livonia, Mich., "The Art of Performance Engineering" takes place at ROUSH® Performance.  To get a look behind the scenes at what goes on at ROUSH® and how the vehicles are designed, manufactured and produced logon to www.ROUSHtv.com.  In addition to the Stage 1TM, Stage 2TM and Stage 3TM Ford Mustang and F-150 styling, handling and performance upgrades, a complete line of performance parts and crate engines are offered.  For more information see your local ROUSH® dealer, visit www.ROUSHperformance.com or telephone toll-free (800) 59-ROUSH.