The 1985 Australian Touring Car Championship was the first series to run under international Group A rules. There wasn’t a single Australian built car to contest the first round of the Australian Championship.
Unfortunately the Mustangs cooling system was built for more moderate European climates, as a result Johnson wasn’t able to finish the first round in Winton due to the heat. Johnson had to make multiple stops to prevent engine damage, he ended up parking the Mustang resulting in a DNF for the first race.
Although this was a very worrying start to the Championship this was Johnsons only DNF for the whole season. Johnson racked up 9 solid finishes coming second in Symmons Plains, Calder, Lakeside and Oran Park. Placed third in Sandown, Wanneroo, and Adelaide and one 4th place in Surfers Paradise.
The series ended with Johnson finishing second place with 192 points based off his best 9 races out of 10. By the conclusion of the Australian Touring Car Championship, Johnsons Mustang was known for its consistency and the persistent threat that it posed on Jim Richards.

Feautres

The model is accurately detailed, the cowl panel features a finely molded vent, twin antennas, bonnet scoop and kill switch.

Behind the Mustang wheel rims are slotted disc brakes on all four wheels.

The left hand drive Mustang has the interior stripped out with full roll cage. The chassis pressing, switch box and pedals are well presented.

The drivers racing seat features soft padding and racing harness with individual buckles.

The 5.0L V8 breathes from twin snorkels attached to the side walls of the engine bay. Opening the bonnet is aided by a bonnet release button on the chassis.

From below the detail continues with metal springs used on the suspension. The steering wheel is linked to the front wheels for extra realism.

The highly detailed rear chassis features air jacks, fuel tank, suspension setup and differential.

The chassis bears an individually numbered etched metal plate which is the edition number of your model.