Two very cool cars were auctioned off for a great cause this week at the Barrett-Jackson Auction Company’s sale in Scottsdale, Ariz. The first production unit of the all-new 2015 Mustang GT was bought for $300,000. It is set to go on sale this fall. This purchase helped Ford Motor Company increase its charity vehicle sales to more than $3.5 million for JDRF, the leading diabetes research organization and a Ford partner since 1983.
At the same auction, a Shelby GT500-inspired 1956 Ford F-100 sold for a whopping $450,000. The Wheels of Dreams Project was created to raise funding for the new Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan in Canada.
“The response to the all-new Mustang GT on the auction block was remarkable,” says Raj Nair, group vice president – global product development at Ford Motor Company. “People were drawn to the opportunity to own this historic car, while also knowing the funds would benefit JDRF.”
Under the sleek new skin, the Mustang GT features 420 horsepower and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. It also has an all-new front and rear independent suspension systems to help transfer power to the pavement with world-class handling, more precise steering control and enhanced ride comfort. Innovative technologies also provide enhanced information, control and connectivity when drivers want it, including launch control that enables smooth and consistent starts when desired.
“We are thrilled with the result of the
auction,” says John Brady, incoming JDRF chairman. “The enthusiasm and generosity of Ford Motor Company and Barrett-Jackson Auction Company is appreciated by the JDRF family and all those living with type 1 diabetes. The $300,000 raised tonight will get us closer to a world without type 1 diabetes.”
The future Children’s Hospital of Saskatchewan received a large donation through the sale of the 1956 Ford F-100 also known as “Snakebit.” It is a blend of a street rod with influences from a Ford Shelby GT500. It touts a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 and high-performance exhaust system.
The sale was made possible through the Wheels of Dreams Project, a collaboration that includes KISS bassist and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Gene Simmons, his wife and Saskatoon-born actress, Shannon Tweed-Simmons, as well as area businesses including the local Saskatchewan Ford dealer association. The fundraising campaign to build the hospital started many years ago, however the group wanted to help achieve the 2016 construction completion goal. Both celebs were onstage for the rockin’ auction.
“We are elated with the response,” says Vaughn Wyant, the co-chair of Wheels of Dreams. “The volunteers involved in this project traveled an amazing road to get here, and it was thrilling to finally reach the moment where Gene and Shannon were spurring on the auction crowd to support the future children’s hospital. What an incredible moment.”
Owner, Randall Reed, General Manager, Justin Wright and the award-winning, Prestige Ford team
When you’re ready to get your own dream car, truck or SUV, take the short drive down 635 to 3601 S. Shiloh, off Garland Road in Garland, TX (serving Dallas, Rockwall, Mesquite, Rowlett, Richardson and Plano. Shop and save online anytime at www.PrestigeGarland.com!