Ford Mustang California Special convertible launched

• Inspired by 1968 Mustang edition
• 444bhp 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine
• Starts from £52,105

A new Ford Mustang California Special model has been revealed. Exclusive to the Mustang convertible, the new model is inspired by the American state and the historic late 1960s special-edition Mustang California. Prices start from £52,105.

The new Ford Mustang California Special features exclusive badges, 19-inch wheels and unique decals, which change their look depending on the light conditions. In the bright sunshine that California is often renowned for, the lettering will show up prominently, but it won’t be so visible on a damp grey day. A black honeycomb grille and a rear-mounted faux fuel cap bearing the California Special name are also fitted, while nine paint colours are available.

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Like the rest of the Mustang coupe and convertible lineup, the car is only offered with a 5.0-litre V8 petrol engine. The engine produces 444bhp and can sprint from 0-62mph in as little as 4.8 seconds with the six-speed manual gearbox, or 4.5 seconds with the 10-speed automatic. The manual features a rev-matching function to make shifting easier.

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Driving modes include Normal, Sport, Track and a Snow/Wet mode that seems more suited to Caledonia than California. Another feature is the Good Neighbour mode that limits the exhaust noise at preset times of the day. A limited-slip differential is also fitted, while Ford’s MagneRide adaptive suspension setup is optional.

The Ford Mustang California Special includes heated and cooled front seats, leather and eco suede upholstery, carbon-inspired contrasting interior trim pieces and an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen running Ford’s SYNC 3 system with sat nav, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and FordPass Connect. Driver aids include adaptive cruise control, pre-collision assist and lane-keep assist.

The original California Special was a dealer-designed limited-run model in the late 1960s. That car had a blacked-out grille, new rear air scoops and side stripes, so you can see where the inspiration for the new model came from.

Read our guide to the best sports cars or check out the Ford Mustang Mach 1.