Much of the focus of the automotive world is on New York City and the auto show taking place at the Javits Center right now. On such a busy news day, you’d think a company like Roush would have a hard time getting any attention. But today they’ve decided to drop the first official details on their lineup of Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3 Mustangs.
In addition to that, we have the first preview of a Raybestos-branded Roush RS3 Mustang – a car that will eventually be given away in a new contest. But first, the details on the new Roush Mustangs.
We’ll start with Stage 1, which like all of the Roush Stage Mustangs, gets a brand new sixth-generation R6 Aerobody kit. This includes a new chin spoiler, upper and lower grille, hood scoop, rocker panel, and rear fascia side splitters. 18-inch cast-aluminum wheels come standard, though you also have a choice of three different 20-inch wheels as well.
Moving to Stage 2 adds a Roush suspension package, which allows the new Stage Mustangs to achieve over one lateral-g of acceleration on the skidpad. A larger front stabilizer bar reduces body roll, while an anti-wheel hop bar helps keep the wheels planted during quick acceleration.
Finally there’s the supercharged Stage 3, or RS3 Mustang. Packing 540 horsepower and 500 ft-lbs of torque, this step-up in power also comes with a unique graphics package and LED boost gauge among many other interior refinements. This is one of the most powerful and best-handling Mustangs Roush has ever built; and that’s saying a lot.
What’s more, Raybestos revealed today that they’re sponsoring a new contest where the prize is a unique 2013 Roush RS3 Mustang. From April 1st to September 15th, contestants can enter at the Raybestos Garage while watching the Mustang come together. It’s a great way to get your hands on a Roush Mustang if you don’t feel like shelling out whatever Roush decides to charge for these killer packages.
So you tell us: was the 2013 Roush Stage 3 Mustang worth waiting for?