I think Karl Ludvigsen's Excellence was expected and Project 928 book are more reliable sources of information in this particular case. AFAIK factory had several final design cars ready and running around by spring '77. Maybe austen means first half of '77?

I hope it went to someone who will restore it to as close to original as possible. Is that correct color for it for example?

 

If it was a factory car, it could have been used as a mule for the 'S' equipment?

In Project 928, spoilers are being wind tested.


clic pic for larger

 

my 77 came into the US in '80 and already had the S package installed
also, my rear spoiler is a bit diff material than others I've seen