Classic car enthusiasts and Mustang collectors are witnessing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as one of the world’s rarest Ford Mustangs hits the auction block. The 1967 Ford Mustang GT Zagato Elaborazione represents an extraordinary fusion of American muscle car heritage and Italian design sophistication, making it arguably the most exclusive Mustang variant ever created.
Italian Craftsmanship Meets American Muscle
Only two examples of this remarkable automobile exist worldwide, both modified by the renowned Carrozzeria Zagato in Milan. The Italian coachbuilder, famous for its collaborations with prestigious brands like Aston Martin, Alfa Romeo, and Bentley, applied its distinctive design philosophy to the American pony car, creating something truly unique in automotive history.
Zagato’s involvement with various automakers spans decades, including recent work with Alpina founders through their new company Bovensiepen, which produced a radically different BMW M4. However, this Mustang project represents the first documented collaboration between Zagato and Ford’s iconic muscle car.
Distinctive Design Elements
The Italian influence becomes immediately apparent in the vehicle’s front-end modifications. Zagato engineers redesigned the fascia with a narrower grille, smoother valance, and replaced the original round headlights with rectangular Carello units. The bumper received modifications to accommodate repositioned turn signals, while a functional air scoop was integrated into the hood design.
The exterior transformation included a striking Holly Green paint scheme, departing from the original Wimbledon White finish. Zagato Elaborazione badges on the front fenders serve as subtle indicators of this car’s exclusive heritage.
Racing Heritage and Provenance
This particular example carries significant racing pedigree, having participated in the prestigious Mille Miglia in 2021. The historic Italian endurance race, known for attracting the world’s most valuable classic cars, provided official recognition of the vehicle’s authenticity and importance.
The car underwent restoration in 2019, during which it received certification from L’Automotoclub Storico Italiano, Italy’s premier historic automobile club. This certification process validated the vehicle’s historical significance and authentic modifications.
Original Performance Specifications
Beneath the modified exterior lies authentic Ford performance hardware. The original 4.7-liter (289 cubic inch) Challenger Special V8 engine remains intact, featuring a four-barrel carburetor configuration and stainless steel headers. This powerplant delivers approximately 271 horsepower and 312 lb-ft of torque, channeled through a traditional 4-speed manual transmission.
The current setup includes 14-inch steel wheels with covers, wrapped in period-appropriate narrow whitewall tires that require replacement. This wheel configuration maintains the car’s authentic 1960s aesthetic while providing adequate performance for spirited driving.
Interior Appointments
The cabin reflects the era’s luxury standards with bucket seats featuring white trim and black inserts. Period-correct amenities include air conditioning, a push-button AM radio, and distinctive rear C-pillar vents. The odometer displays 502 kilometers (approximately 312 miles), though the actual mileage remains unverified.
Current Market Opportunity
Collectors interested in acquiring this automotive rarity can participate in the ongoing auction through Bring a Trailer, with bidding scheduled to close within days. The current bid stands at 31,000 euros (approximately $36,240), though this figure will likely increase as the auction progresses.
The vehicle’s extreme rarity, combined with its Italian design pedigree and racing history, positions it as a potentially significant investment for serious collectors. The combination of Ford’s mechanical reliability and Zagato’s exclusive design makes this Mustang variant particularly appealing to enthusiasts seeking something truly unique.
Market Significance
This auction represents more than just a car sale; it’s an opportunity to own a piece of automotive history that bridges two distinct automotive cultures. The rarity factor cannot be overstated – with only two examples ever produced, this Mustang variant is exponentially rarer than any factory-produced special edition.
The vehicle’s participation in modern historic racing events demonstrates its continued relevance in the collector car community. This active use, rather than static museum display, adds to its appeal among driving enthusiasts who appreciate both historical significance and practical usability.
FAQs
Q: How many 1967 Ford Mustang GT Zagato Elaborazione models exist? A: Only two examples of this variant were ever created by Carrozzeria Zagato in Milan, making it one of the rarest Mustang variants in existence.
Q: What are the main differences between this car and a standard 1967 Mustang GT? A: The primary modifications include a narrower grille, rectangular Carello headlights instead of round ones, modified bumper with repositioned turn signals, hood air scoop, and Holly Green paint scheme. The car also features Zagato Elaborazione badges on the front fenders.
Q: Is this car eligible for historic racing events? A: Yes, this vehicle participated in the prestigious Mille Miglia in 2021 and holds certification from L’Automotoclub Storico Italiano, confirming its eligibility for historic racing events.
Q: What is the current estimated value of this vehicle? A: The current auction bid stands at 31,000 euros (approximately $36,240), though the final sale price will depend on collector interest and bidding activity during the auction’s closing period.
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