What a better way to compare between Ford’s original 1965 Mustang and its 2015 successor than to split it into half and combine them into one display?
At the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum in the U.S, Ford has showcased a one-of-a-kind Mustang that marries a 1965 model to a 2015 model in a unique side-by-side display.
The model combines about 60% of the driver’s compartment of the original Mustang and about 60% that of a new pony car – both including the console area and technology of their times. The left side consists of a reproduction 1965 left-hand-drive Mustang licensed for modern production by Ford and built to the same specifications as the original car. The other side is a right-hand-drive 2015 Mustang that is sold in several of the 150 countries where the car is now available.
While most of us will surely place our focus on the changes in design, mass and technological features upon seeing this ‘Two-Face’ Mustang display, Ford wanted to highlights how trademarks, patents, and other forms of intellectual property make modern amenities possible.
Ford says that when the Mustang was launched in 1964, no specific styling patents were granted, but after the car proved to be a huge success selling over 1 million units in the first 18 months, the company started applying patents over time. By late 1965, the original Mustang employed more than 100 of Ford’s existing functional patents, including rear-seat speaker, a power convertible top and self-canceling turn signal.
“Everything moved so fast in the design and run-up to production of the original Mustang that there were no styling patents issued back then,” said Chris Danowski, Ford director of technology commercialization and intellectual property licensing. “Now look at the current car; 2015 Mustang Convertible alone was granted 36 styling patents, which ensure the unique look stays with the car. It also has many unique functional patents for things like the airbag structures, 911 Assist and so many other technologies baked right in.”
Many of these patents and more are illustrated in the display where visitors to the museum will also be able to sit in either side of the car and directly compare features and styling details; From the AM radio, roll-up window, vent air window, and optional retractable color-keyed and seat belts available in 1965, to the working touch screen display in the 2015 model.
Some patents and other intellectual property will be displayed on accompanying monitors and over speakers. Visitors to the display will also be able to hear the sounds of the original 1965 Mustang V8 engine and a 2015 Mustang V8 engine at idle.
