TheFord Mustang GTholds a unique place in Australian touring car history, thanks to its connection with legendary driverDick Johnson. Over40 years ago, in1984, Johnson and his backerRoss Palmer (Palmer Tube Mills)imported a pair ofZakspeed-built Mustangsfrom Germany to compete in Australia’s first season underGroup A regulations.That year,Dick Johnson Racing (DJR)fielded both aGroup C Ford XE Falconand aGroup A Ford Mustang GTin theBathurst 1000. While Johnson and co-driverJohn Frenchstarted4th on the gridwith the Falcon, the underpowered#71 Ford Mustang GTstruggled in qualifying, securing48th position. However, it was entered as abackup carin case of another disaster like Johnsons infamous1983 Hardies Heroes crash. In the end, the Mustang was officiallywithdrawn before race day, making it the onlynon-starterin the64-car field.The Mustang did see race action later that year, withJohn Frenchcompeting in asupport event at Surfers Paradise, before the car was repainted inJohnsons iconic Green #17 liveryfor the1985 Australian Touring Car Championship (ATCC).This 1/18 diecast replica represents this significant piece of DJR history, representing a transitional period as Australian touring car racing embraced Group A regulations.