Through the Looking Glass (Page 2)
Those Mustangs were my first two new cars. I remember everything about them, and I cherish the good times had during my ownership. They came along at a time when I was highly impressionable, when street racing was at its zenith, and when I was very much into dating. You don’t forget the cars that played such a supporting role in your life. Now here was a chance to see them, all these years later, come to life in scale.
Despite many moves and through all the intervening years, I still had a treasure-trove of paperwork, memorabilia and a vivid recollection of facts and events. My motives were anything but subtle as I plied George with pictures and stories of my times with those cars. Apparently my bona fides were sufficient, and I became an active participant in the project.
I should make clear that my participation amounted to a very small slice of the developmental pie. I saw myself as more of a gofer and heckler than partner. Nonetheless, from my privileged vantage point I came away with an insight into the process and a respect for those like George whose responsibility it is to create these beautiful images in metal.
This was to be a complicated series. From two basic body styles, a fastback and a convertible covering both Mustang and Shelby versions, George planned to create an amazing variety of cars. Upwards of 17 permutations were possible. The photo below (dated 9/29/04) shows the two bodies, a multiplicity of panels, wheels, interior pieces, all hinting at what was to come.
Unlike the woeful, low-parts-count FM Mustang (each tampo stamp could be considered a part), theses GMP’s would be of high-volume components out of necessity. All the variations planned (different hoods, front and rear fascias, interior trim levels, engine options and accessories, to name just a few) would require a level of detail and interchangeability hitherto unattained. Fortunately for me, my beloved 1:1 cars were not only now possible, but were included in the matrix.
Among the groundbreaking paths taken in the development of these cars was an open-window policy. News, photos and progress reports were made public. Collectors, via the forums, could observe, comment and offer suggestions. It was my feeling at the time that laying bare the process would be taking an unnecessary risk.