SUMMARY
3-year build completed in October of 2014The pro-touring scene has gotten so big that it's starting to create its own divisions. One side builds comfortable cars that look great but aren't that track-worthy. The other side forsakes comfort for an obsession with pulling 1g on the skid pad. There's nothing wrong with either mindset, but cars like this super clean Mustang are reminders that you don't necessarily have to choose a side. Set up for autocross and open track driving, this first class Ford is a 3-year build that plants a supercharged Coyote Aluminator in front of a tough Tremec 6-speed and roster of custom mechanicals. And, best of all, it's a completely livable cruiser which features paint and bodywork that'll leave most MCA cars quivering in their Polyglas boots. If you're ready for an incredible pro-tourer with absolutely no asterisks, gimmicks or excuses, get to know this boss blue oval!
BODYWORK/TRIM
Finished in October of 2014, this custom is the direct result of what happens when a long-time Mustang fan, Phil Heacock of Indiana, meets the owners of a top-notch hot rod shop, Allison's Rod and Custom of Shelbyville, Kentucky. The Allisons were looking for a client who wanted to maximize the potential of a classic Mustang. And Heacock, a veteran SCCA racer, was looking for a street car that he could take to the track. The project began in 2011, when this solid pony was stripped to bare metal and massaged into better-than-factory condition. Those super straight surfaces were set off with quality DuPont paint, thoroughly color-sanded and sealed in five coats of clear. And, when all was said and done, this Ford debuted as a fresh twist on a 'can't miss' favorite!
Take a long look at our high-resolution photos and it becomes blatantly obvious that someone really sweated this car's details. Up front, a shaved, stainless-trimmed grille hangs H4 driving lamps between H4 headlights, a mirrored bumper and a fresh chin spoiler. Behind that grille, a custom, fifth generation Mustang-inspired hood flows to fresh glass that rides between bright wipers, straight stainless trim and correct, color-keyed mirrors. At the sides of that glass, chrome-trimmed marker lamps frame classic door handles and custom, billet-lined quarter scoops. And at the back of the car, a Satin Black valance founds segmented taillights and an ornate fuel filler above a second mirrored bumper and chrome-trimmed reverse lamps.
ENGINE
Given Heacock's racing chops, sourcing the latest and greatest Motown motivation wasn't all that hard. Hoist this coupe's lightweight hood and you'll find a 5.0 liter, Ford Performance 'mod motor' that, with the help of a Ford Racing supercharger, twists roughly 530 tire-melting horsepower to the car's custom rear wheels. Officially named 'Coyote Aluminator', and not far removed from the engine that powers the current Mustang GT, this state-of-the-art rocket utilizes a forged crank, Boss 302 springs, Grafal-coated Mahle pistons, Manley H-beam rods, ARP bolts and Boss 302 bearings to create stout compression. At the top of the all-aluminum mill, a remote air filter feeds a Satin Black air tube, which feeds a Ford Racing Whipple, which creates 10 psi of boost. At the sides of the engine, clean shorty headers optimize breathing. At the front of the engine, a Ford serpentine system spins an assortment of smooth ancillaries. And a Griffin 3-core radiator, which is fitted with a large electric puller fan, provides plenty of cooling. The svelte powerplant is extremely tidy, with sleeved wiring, sleeved hoses and "POWERED BY FORD" cam covers concealing most of its factory silver block. And the car's show-detailed engine bay is finished with thoughtful accessories like a modern brake booster, Aeromotive fuel components and snazzy Ringbrothers hood supports.
DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION
Shine a light under this Ford and a pristine undercarriage reveals a fully restored chassis that centers fresh, Satin Black floors on a roster of top-notch components. Behind the Aluminator, a tough McLeod clutch engages a Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed that's built to withstand 700 lb./ft. of torque. That stalwart transmission twists a vented Strange third member, which spins a Torsen differential around big, 3.50 gears and tough Strange axles. That proven drivetrain rides on a full TCI suspension, double A-arm up front and torque arm out back. That modified suspension is augmented with adjustable shocks and power rack-and-pinion steering. Braking is equally class, with Wilwood 4 and 6-piston calipers squeezing 13-inch drilled and slotted rotors. The aforementioned headers dump spent gases in to large-diameter pipes and throaty Flowmaster mufflers. There's a sturdy set of subframe connectors that ensure the engine doesn't outlive its shell. Detail items, like a deep-sump oil pan and sturdy fuel cell, elevate that shell far beyond simple turntable fodder. And everything rolls on 3-piece True Forged wheels, which twist 245/40ZR18 front and 275/35ZR18 rear BF Goodrich g-Force Rivals.
INTERIOR
Pop the doors and you'll find an attractive, well-rounded interior that's basically a more functional version of Ford's factory hardware. Front and center, French-stitched Sparco buckets stretch quality cloth covers under tough Sparco harnesses. Opposite those seats, a "COYOTE" branded dash founds Dakota Digital VHX telemetry between quality American Autowire wiring, a Kenwood head unit, hand-formed air vents and controls for the car's Vintage Air climate system. At the base of that dash, rich carpet balances color-keyed floor mats at the edges of a sturdy Ringbrothers shifter. At the edges of that carpet, custom side panels hang small handles beneath tubular armrests and simple power window switches. The driver maintains control thanks to a thick Sparco steering wheel, which laps a tilting Ididit column. The passengers stay safe with the help of an 8-point roll cage that features swing-out door bars. And behind the cockpit, big speakers front a fully finished trunk.
OUR SALE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTATION
A build bookThere are a lot of nice Mustangs on the market. But one ride is all it takes to confirm that this is a very different pony. With its Ford-designed engine, tough 6-speed and thoroughly massaged suspension, this is a car you can push on all day long. Or, you can head to the meet, grab a friend and spend the day just cruising backroads. If you're looking for a no-compromises pro-tourer, you're looking at your next classic!