Thanks Royce. It’s definitely not faded. I just thought it could have been repainted at some point. Fast on the draw, and a wealth of knowledge. Love this forum.
So is the burnt out car the same one in this article? It appears to be. Is the article incorrect then that this is the only GTE built in Onyx with a 427 and saddle interior, so 1 of 1? The Marti posted says either 15 or 16 with these paint/trim combination (I can’t make out the exact number) How does that apply “paint/trim code” GTE is a package right, not considered trim? Is trim just the XR7 or is that a package also, so just the interior color? Sorry for asking stupid questions 
It can be a bit baffling reading the whole story of this car. Original motor gone. At some point a 390 dropped in it. Bought with a 302 in it in WI. Then restored with the wrong motor that just happens to belong to Bart’s car. It’s kinda nuts 
If it’s not faded then someone repainted it the wrong color. The correct color blue is quite dark, hence the name “Ford Corporate Dark Blue.”
If this is the car I think it is, any potential buyer should enquire regarding the circumstances of the fire.
It could influence your decision.
More mystery? I just want to know if it is indeed 1 of 1. It would be a long road back, and it wouldn’t ever quite be right again.
The Marti report says it is. This adds nothing to the value in my opinion. Most cars are 1 of 1 based on some factoid. Desirability is not affected by rarity, or vice - versa. Rarity often means something was not popular when it was new.
This GT-E certainly had a desirable color combination when it was new. Now it has a sad story attached to a burnt out shell, stripped of anything that it originally came with.