Electric Cars

Mazda is deeply engaged in the development of the upcoming MX-5 Miata, with a clear mission to safeguard the vehicle's inherent character and celebrated driving essence. This strategy extends to other models like the CX-60 and CX-80, where customer feedback drives continuous innovation, reflecting a strong emphasis on driving pleasure and unique design.

The Evolution of Mazda: Insights from Roberto Pietrantonio, Managing Director of Mazda Italia

In a revealing interview, Roberto Pietrantonio, Managing Director of Mazda Italia, provided insights into Mazda's forward-looking strategies and product advancements. He emphasized the critical role of enthusiast engagement, particularly in the evolution of the iconic MX-5 Miata. Japanese engineers recently visited Italy to consult with local MX-5 communities, gathering invaluable feedback directly from passionate owners. This direct interaction is fundamental to Mazda's philosophy of co-creating vehicles that resonate with drivers worldwide, ensuring the next Miata retains its core 'DNA' of pure driving enjoyment.

Beyond the Miata, Pietrantonio detailed the enhancements to Mazda's SUV lineup. The 2026 CX-60, now in its third iteration since its 2022 debut, exemplifies Mazda’s commitment to 'Kaizen'—continuous improvement. Updates focus on refining driving dynamics, suspension, and steering to strike an optimal balance between sporty handling and comfort. Furthermore, the CX-60 now features improved cabin quietness with dual-pane front glass and enhanced engine-bay insulation, alongside advanced safety features that aid emergency responders post-accident. Diverse powertrain options, including an efficient diesel for high-mileage drivers and a powerful plug-in hybrid for daily electric use and longer trips, cater to varied customer needs. The larger CX-80, designed for families requiring more space with its three-row seating, also benefits from customer-driven refinements, paralleling the CX-60's development path.

Pietrantonio also touched upon Mazda's distinctive 'Takumi Nuri' paint technology, which creates dynamic, light-reactive finishes such as 'Soul Red Crystal' and 'Machine Grey'. These artistic paint applications, inspired by Japanese artisan traditions, visually enhance the vehicles' clean designs. Regarding market dynamics, Italy remains a pivotal market for Mazda, particularly for popular models like the CX-30 and CX-5. Despite a projected stable overall market, Mazda anticipates growth in Italy, fueled by new models like the CX-6e EV, though the pace of EV adoption in the country presents an ongoing challenge. Finally, he addressed the recent 'Luce' name discussion involving Ferrari, affirming a history of mutual respect and collaboration between Mazda and Italian designers, underscoring Mazda's unique position among Japanese automakers with a distinctive design identity.

This interview highlights Mazda's unwavering dedication to innovation driven by user experience. It underscores the brand's commitment to delivering an enjoyable driving experience across its diverse model range, from the nimble Miata to its sophisticated SUVs, all while embracing technological advancements and maintaining a strong connection with its customer base.

The 1966 Ford T5 stands as a remarkable chapter in automotive history, born out of a fascinating trademark dispute in Germany. Though intrinsically a Mustang, this vehicle was rebranded as the T5 for the European market, making it an exceptionally rare and sought-after classic. Equipped with a potent K-code V-8 engine delivering 271 horsepower, this model combined American muscle with a unique European identity. Its distinct story and meticulous restoration efforts contribute significantly to its appeal among collectors and car enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into Ford's strategic adaptations for international markets.

This particular example, recently restored and presented in immaculate black with a tan interior, represents the pinnacle of the T5's desirability. Its K-code V-8 engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission, embodies the high-performance spirit of 1960s American sports cars. The article details its journey from internal project code to a distinct European variant, emphasizing the features that set it apart, such as the absence of Mustang badging and specific suspension adjustments. This historical context, coupled with its excellent condition, positions the T5 as more than just a car; it's a piece of cross-continental automotive intrigue.

The Birth of the T5: A Naming Quandary in Germany

In the mid-1960s, as the Ford Mustang gained traction globally, its expansion into Germany hit an unexpected hurdle. A German truck manufacturer, Krupp, already held the trademark for the name 'Mustang' for its utility vehicles. This unforeseen conflict presented Ford with a dilemma: either pay a substantial fee of $10,000 for the rights to the name or devise an alternative. Opting for the latter, Ford creatively circumvented the issue by leveraging its internal project code for the Mustang, 'T5,' to brand the vehicles destined for the German market. This decision inadvertently created one of the most distinctive and collectible variants of the iconic pony car.

The transformation from Mustang to T5 was more than just a name change; it involved subtle but significant modifications to distinguish these cars. Ford removed the 'Mustang' script from the steering wheels and affixed new 'T5' emblems on the fenders. Furthermore, these German-bound models received a slightly re-tuned suspension, which notably included a shock tower brace derived from the high-performance Shelby GT350. These adjustments not only addressed the trademark issue but also imbued the T5 with a unique identity and enhanced driving dynamics, catering to European tastes while retaining the Mustang's inherent appeal.

Distinguishing Features and Collector's Appeal of the T5

The 1966 Ford T5, particularly the K-code V-8 variant, stands out in the annals of automotive history for its potent performance and its compelling backstory. The K-code V-8 engine, a high-performance option, delivered an impressive 271 horsepower, making the T5 a formidable machine on the road. This robust powertrain, coupled with a four-speed manual transmission, ensured an exhilarating driving experience. The rarity of these K-code T5s, especially those in specific factory colors like the black example featured, significantly contributes to their desirability among discerning collectors worldwide.

Beyond its performance credentials, the T5's unique historical context and limited production numbers elevate its collector status. Each T5 carries the narrative of Ford's ingenuity in overcoming branding challenges in an international market. The meticulously restored example discussed, with its estimated 29,000 miles (after a rollover), recent service history including a rebuilt carburetor, radiator, brake overhaul, and new valve cover gaskets, epitomizes the care and value placed on these vehicles. For Ford aficionados, owning a T5 is not merely possessing a classic car but holding a tangible piece of automotive lore that sparks conversation and commands respect at any car show.