What Is the Boss Mustang Shinoda?

Larry Shinoda was a prominent automobile designer who was instrumental in the development of the Mustang, as well as the Chevy Corvette. Shinoda began his career at Ford in 1955 but soon moved on to General Motors’ Chevrolet division where he worked on the concept car that eventually became the Corvette Stingray. While at Chevrolet, Shinoda was also involved in the redesign of the Corvair, which resulted in a more streamlined, sleeker shape for that model.

Return to Ford and the Development of the Boss 302

Shinoda returned to Ford in 1968 and immediately began work on the Boss 302 Mustang, a high-performance vehicle that was sold in 1969 and 1970 and made a return appearance in 2012 and 2013. The Boss 302 moniker was a product of the vehicle’s muscular 302-cubic-inch V8 engine and Shinoda paying homage to his boss, Ford president Semon “Bunkie” Knudson, who had lured Shinoda away from GM.

When Knudsen was let go from Ford, Shinoda went with him, but not working for one of the major automotive companies didn't stop him from contributing to automotive design. He eventually formed his own independent firm, where he continued to do design work for Ford and other automobile manufacturers. In 1994, Shinoda re-created the Boss concept with a special graphics package for the Mustang. Vehicles equipped with the package are known as a Boss Shinoda Mustang.

Styling Changes in the Boss 302

Shinoda was credited with coming up with a number of key styling changes that were eventually incorporated into the design of the Boss 302. Among the more notable design touches are the distinctive C-shaped stripes on the fenders and doors, blackout paint around the headlights, the addition of a rear spoiler and rear window louvers, and the filling in the side scoops.