The Empire State Building is one of the tallest buildings in the US and a key part of the New York skyline. Back in 1965, Ford placed a 1966 Mustang convertible up onto the observation deck of the Empire State building as a marketing stunt. Ford has announced that it plans to recreate that marketing stunt for the all-new 2015 Mustang.
The Original Stunt: A Historical Perspective
The original 1965 stunt was a remarkable feat of engineering and marketing ingenuity. The 1966 Mustang convertible was disassembled into three main sections to fit into the Empire State Building’s elevators. Once at the top, the car was meticulously reassembled on the observation deck, creating a buzz that resonated far beyond the automotive world. This event not only showcased the Mustang’s stylish design but also highlighted Ford’s innovative spirit.
The 1966 Mustang was a symbol of American automotive prowess, and placing it atop one of the most iconic buildings in the world was a statement that Ford was a leader in both engineering and marketing. The stunt was covered extensively by the media, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts and the general public alike. It was a bold move that paid off, cementing the Mustang’s place in automotive history.
The 2015 Mustang: A Modern Engineering Challenge
Fast forward to 2015, and Ford is once again aiming to capture the public’s imagination by recreating this iconic stunt with the all-new 2015 Mustang. The big challenge is how exactly to get the car up onto the deck. You might think that Ford will be using a crane or perhaps a helicopter. You would be wrong on both counts. Ford engineers plan to take the car up the elevator piece by piece and then reassemble the car at the top. That is exactly how they got the car up there in 1965.
However, the 2015 Mustang presents new challenges. The modern Mustang is significantly larger and more complex than its 1966 predecessor. Engineers have to carefully plan how to disassemble the car into sections that can fit into the building’s elevators. This involves not only cutting the car into manageable pieces but also ensuring that it can be quickly and safely reassembled at the top. The entire move has to be completed in six hours, adding an element of urgency to the project.
The 2015 Mustang convertible will be on the observation deck of the building from 8am to 2am April 16 and 17. This limited-time display will give visitors a unique opportunity to see the Mustang in a setting that combines modern engineering with historical significance. It’s a fitting tribute to the Mustang’s enduring legacy and a testament to Ford’s ongoing commitment to innovation.
The decision to recreate this stunt also speaks to the Mustang’s iconic status in American culture. The car has evolved over the decades, but it remains a symbol of freedom, performance, and style. By placing the 2015 Mustang atop the Empire State Building, Ford is not just celebrating a new model; they are honoring a rich heritage that has captivated car lovers for generations.
In conclusion, Ford’s plan to recreate the 1965 marketing stunt with the 2015 Mustang is a brilliant blend of nostalgia and modern engineering. It highlights the Mustang’s enduring appeal and Ford’s innovative spirit. As the 2015 Mustang takes its place atop the Empire State Building, it will undoubtedly capture the public’s imagination once again, just as it did nearly 50 years ago.
via USA Today
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