A custom-built Ford, known as the WD-40/SEMA Cares Mustang, helped raise more than $200,000 for two children’s charities, Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp.
Sold at the Barrett-Jackson Classic Car Show and Auction in January, the 2011 Ford Mustang GT received an online bid of $100,000 and generated a further $125,000 in donations from others who wanted to support the effort.
SEMA Cares represents the automotive specialty equipment industry and has been raising money for Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp for more than three years. The sale of the Mustang represents the single biggest contribution to SEMA Cares to date. “We are overwhelmed and completely surprised with the results of the Mustang,” said Mike Spagnola from SEMA. “I am eternally grateful to Barrett-Jackson for their help with the auction, as well as the management at WD-40.”
The car was rebuilt with high-performance aftermarket parts and its 5.0-liter V8 engine produces nearly 600hp. It also features a custom body kit and interior, an entertainment system plus a paint scheme that emulates the WD-40 brand.
The build partners for the project included Street Scene Equipment, Paxton Superchargers, Stillen/AP Racing Brakes, MagnaFlow, Forgeline, Advanced Clutch Technology, Katzkin Leather, Hotchkis, Polk Audio, California Pony Car, Nitto Tire, PPG, Grant and GTR.
Childhelp is an organization that provides services to abused and neglected children, while the Victory Junction Gang Camp provides life-changing camping experiences to special needs and chronically ill children.