Bill, your post was very well stated.
I don't agree with all of Carroll Shelbys decisions and methods to achieve his goals, post Cobra/Shelby Mustang glory years, but I still think the good things he has accomplished outweigh the negatives. Gripe all you want about endorsements, but I don't see anyone raggin' on Michael Jordan for selling underwear or Tiger Woods promoting Buicks. Successful celebrity endorsers make more being corporate shills than in their original profession. Lots of actors/actresses get by doing commercials. Some even bypass U.S. products and do commercials in foreign countries to preserve their image here.
The amazing thing about being a critic is that the more viciously they put something down, (movie, play, book, sports performance, and coaching to name a few) the more attention the critic gets. This recognition often comes in spite of no attempt at producing or doing anything themselves to contribute to society and put themselves at risk of criticism. In other words, it's easy to sit back and do nothing and then criticize everything others do. It doesn't earn you respect
There is a large segment of 40+ males that would be interested in a Shelby version of a new Ford Mustang, especially if it has the performance to back up the reputation. Younger buyers, most females, and fans of other brands may initially say "who? " or "so what? ". One would think a Shelby Mustang would siphon off sales from the existing Mustang Cobra line. If the CS name and race reputation attracts traditional buyers of other makes, then Ford would look like geniuses. IMHO
Fast Farmer