quote:Originally posted by comp2:
...I actually question the validity of that. I know they were working with Shelby and Ford at the time but that was one of many deals Shelby left with some one else holding the bag. I think people like to tout it was the next car in their sequence but I believe it over rated. ...
I wasn't clear. Let me try to clarify my meaning. Neither Ford or Shelby planned for the Mangusta to replace the Cobra. I'm not trying to imply there is any connection between the two cars. There is absolutely not.
Shelby's relationship with Ford broke down in 1967. DeTomaso wanted a business relationship with Ford like Shelby had, as a supplier of specialty cars. DeTomaso saw an "opening" and produced the "Mangusta" in 1968 to "fill the void" left by the Cobra. It was not produced at the request of Ford or Shelby, DeTomaso produced it on his own. Alejandro was just being the fast moving businessman that he was. DeTomaso named it the Mangusta (Mongoose), it is obvious DeTomaso had the Cobra in mind when he did this.
Instead of writing "The Mangusta was designed to replace the Cobra as Ford's sports car." I could have written "DeTomaso built the Mangusta with the hope that it would replace the Cobra as Ford's next sports car after relations with Shelby broke down, thereby giving him a foot in the door with Ford".
Clear as mud?