Probably the most interesting event in the 1980 model year was the development of the M81 McLaren Mustang. Whether it is really a 1980 or 1981 may be up to argument. The fact, is however that the concept that started in the spring of 1980, led to the formation of Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) who was responsible for designing and producing the car, and set up specifically to create limited production performance vehicles to enhance Ford’s performance image through motorsports.
