[Lee Stewart]

The Twister Special got its start when Ford's Special Promotions Division was approached by American Raceways International to build five Mustang Mach 1s and five convertibles to use as pace cars at its five planned race tracks around the country. All ten, each equipped with a 428 SCJ and a C6 automatic transmission, were specially prepared by Ford. Ultimately, plans called for 100 special-edition cars with unique side striping and ARI graphics. Unfortunately, ARI completed only two of its NASCAR-level tracks before filing for bankruptcy, leaving Ford with ten undelivered ARI Mustang pace cars.

Not wanting to lose its investment in the project, Ford reached out to find a sales district willing to accept delivery of at least 100 Mustang units. The Kansas City sales district (DSO 53) elected to take on the project and call it "Twister Special."

All 96 were Grabber Orange. Originally all 96 were to get the 428 CJ engine but due to a shortage only 48 did. Of those 48, 24 were SCJ models, like this one which has the 3.91 rear. The other 48 got the 351.

Ford debuted the Twisters at their “Total Performance Day” on November 7, 1969 at Kansas City International Raceway. At the time, Ford said in a press release, “On November 7, 1969, a Twister hit Kansas City Ford dealers' showroom -- and was a smashing success."