Ford Eagle Squadron Mustang GT Raises $420,000

Ford Eagle Squadron Mustang GT Raises $420,000

2018 RTR Smithfield Mustang Reading Ford Eagle Squadron Mustang GT Raises $420,000 2 minutes Next T-Pain RTR Spec 2 Widebody

Proceeds of one-off 700hp Mustang to benefit next generation of pilots.

The awesome one-off Eagle Squadron Mustang GT that Ford developed together with drifting champion Vaughn Gittin Jr. has been auctioned off at a fundraiser in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, for an impressive $420,000. Brayton Williams placed the winning bid at the event for the modified 700-hp Mustang GT and the proceeds will go towards supporting the Experimental Aircraft Association AirVenture and the next generation of pilots. Darrell Behmer, Ford Mustang design chief said that it had been a great honor to work with Vaughn and his team and he also thanked Brayton for his generous support of the EAA.

The Eagle Squadron Mustang made an appearance at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed last month where the drifting superstar took the car up the famed hill climb. New owner Brayton was also invited to the Woodward Dream Cruise where he celebrated by taking the car up the famed Woodward strip.

Designed to honor the 100th anniversary of the Royal Air Force and the heroes of the Eagle Squadron, volunteer US pilots who flew in WWII before the official US entry into the war, this is the 10th one-off Mustang to have been donated by Ford. The carmaker's association with the EAA spans two-decades, helping raise more than $3.7-million in that time.

The Eagle Squadron Mustang GT features Gittin’s Mustang RTR carbon fiber wide-body kit as well as a number of aerodynamic add-ons and that unique paintwork and decal package. The 5.0-liter V8 has been treated to a supercharger kit which helps the engine produce 700 hp and 610 lb ft of torque while the factory warranty remains intact. The RTR performance suspension package includes adjustable MagneRide dampers, lowering springs and adjustable sway bars. Bespoke interior trim and a set of RTR Aero 7 forged wheels fitted with 20-inch tires finish off this desirable package.

Original Article Link:

https://carbuzz.com/news/ford-eagle-squadron-mustang-gt-raises-420000

Watch The 2024 Formula Drift Season Documentary

First To Four

Mustang Owner’s Cruise 

We started the day with a Mustang cruise through some North Carolina backroads. 40 Mustang owners joined us, led by Vaughn Gittin Jr. in his 10th Anniversary Mustang RTR Spec 5, Ben Hobson in his 2024 Mustang RTR Spec 3, and even the RTR-C came on the cruise to stretch its legs on the open road.

After the cruise, everyone gathered back at the RTR Lab, where Vaughn and Ben spent time signing cars, taking photos, and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. We even captured a group photo to commemorate the experience before inviting everyone inside for a private Lab tour before the celebration officially began.

A Look Inside the Celebration

As guests entered the RTR Lab, they were greeted by an incredible display of RTR history and innovation. At the forefront was James Deane’s Championship-winning Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD, proudly positioned alongside the 2024 Formula Drift Championship trophy. Several other RTR Mustangs were also on display, including:

  • The first production Mustang RTR
  • A prototype Mustang RTR
  • RTR-X
  • Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s 2010 Championship-winning car
  • The Mustang Mach-E 1400
  • The latest RTR Mustangs, including brand-new production models and factory Mustangs
  • Vaughn Gittin Jr.'s Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD and Ben Hobson’s new competition car

With so much history in one place, fans had the opportunity to immerse themselves in everything RTR represents—performance, passion, and innovation.

Nonstop Action & Exclusive Sneak Peek

Once inside, guests were treated to a night packed with excitement and unique experiences:

  • Photo ops with James Deane’s championship-winning Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD
  • Axe throwing competitions
  • Racing simulators for fans to test their skills
  • RTR merch available for purchase
  • A crazy cart track set up outside with Taxi Garage Crazy Carts for guests to unleash their inner racer

The night reached another level when we premiered our 2024 Formula Drift season documentary, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the trials, tribulations, and ultimate triumph of the RTR Drift Team. This documentary will officially be released on February 6, 2025—so stay tuned!

Before the screening, Vaughn Gittin Jr. gave our packed house a sneak peek at the 2025 Mustang RTR Spec 5, you can check it out HERE

A Championship Season to Remember

This season was anything but easy. From the very first round, the team faced serious adversity—James’ Mustang RTR Spec 5-FD caught fire during practice, forcing a complete rebuild before the competition even began. The challenges didn’t stop there, but through resilience, determination, and teamwork, we fought through every obstacle.

James Deane didn’t just win another championship—he made history. He is now the only driver in Formula Drift history to secure four championships, a testament to his skill, the dedication of our team, and the strength of the RTR mindset.

With 250+ guests in attendance, the RTR Lab was buzzing with energy all night. To close out the celebration, Vaughn, James, and Ben hosted a meet-and-greet and autograph session, giving fans a chance to get up close with their favorite drivers and share their excitement for what’s to come.

Looking Ahead to 2025

With the 2025 Formula Drift season on the horizon, we’re already back in the Lab, preparing for another thrilling year of competition. We want to thank every fan, partner, and team member who has supported us throughout this season—we couldn’t do it without you!

Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s get ready to rock in 2025! #ReadyToRock