The History of the Mustang Roush
Jack Rousch is a name people associate with performance, design and innovation. Rousch Racing is also no stranger to the race track. As a manager of numerous racing teams, he’s had more wins than you can count. The Mustang Rousch models helped make Mustang what it is today. It may have taken Jack Rousch a couple of years longer than he wanted to break into the car making business, but he immediately became popular in the aftermarket world, which set him apart from the rest and gave him a platform to build from.
From the Beginning
Jack Rousch first pitched the concept of the Mustang to Ford in 1988. He hoped his 400hp twin turbocharged creation would put him in dealerships all around the world. Ford initially passed on the opportunity because they were worried about the expense to build these machines and a potential flop with the public. Yet in 1995, Rousch Performance Products was born, offering performance enhancing aftermarket parts to the Mustang loving public to help them take their Mustang to the next level. After just a couple of years and growing popularity, Rousch started offering complete vehicle packages in-house.
The First Generation
Rousch finally found himself on the Mustang circuit when he introduced the first generation of Mustangs which were based off the V-8 powered GT model. This first Rousch Mustang was offered in three models, each better than the last. This gave consumers an affordable base line and offered upgrades to those who wanted to spend the money. This model was available through 1998.
The Second Generation
This generation of Rousch Mustangs ran from 1999 to 2004. This generation was also offered in three models. They also introduced the concept of offering upgrades and performance packages for the higher up models. All were available in a V6 or V8 “New Edge” Mustang. There was also the Rousch Sport Mustang package available for the base model, which featured exterior and interior upgrades and a modified exhaust. In 2002 three additional packages were added for the Stage 3 model. These packages include the Stage 3 Rally, Stage 3 Premium and the Stage 3 Sport.
The Third Generation
The third generation of Rousch Mustangs debuted in 2005. This generation is based on the S197 styled GT Mustang. Four models are available in this generation: Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3 and the Rousch Sport model. Rousch performance also worked on and released their own line of special edition Mustangs, which included:the Speedster, the RTC, the 4.0L V6 Mustang, the Black Jack Mustang, the 427R Mustang, the 427R Trak Pak Mustang, the P-51A and the P-51B.
In 2010 Rousch changed it up by redesigning the car and offering new options for the year. The models available include the Stage 1, the Stage 2, the Stage 3, the 427R and the brand new 2010 ROUSCH 540RH Mustang, which boasts 540hp and 510 foot pounds of torque.
Stage Models
The major difference in Stage models had to do with appearance and performance. Stage 1 was merely about performance and offered the base level engine and handling. Stage 2 saw an improvement in the race-like suspension, which took the Mustang to a different level on the street. The Stage 3 then included hot-rod-like techniques in power and appearance, offering the best model available for most of the Rousch Mustang years.
Aftermarket
Rousch is no stranger to aftermarket parts which aid in performance and appearance. By marketing to the aftermarket crowd, Rousch improved Mustang sales and offered a customization option that consumers loved and which Rousch became known for. Some of the most popular aftermarket kits offered by Rousch Performance Parts include the Cobra handling kit, GT40 headers, aluminum heads, suspension packages, 3-piece fiberglass hood assembly, rear spoiler, rear valance, supercharger, side skirts, Rousch spec wheels, front valance and the induction kit.
By combining the customized look with all the options of performance upgrades, Rousch Mustang’s took on a culture of their own. Around the world the Rousch name is respected and known for delivering a fast, attractive, high quality product. Whether you’re interested in a Rousch Mustang or just love their performance parts you know the history brings the quality you find today. When looking for quality aftermarket Mustang parts there simply is no other place to go.