Mustang Of The Day: 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Resto Mod
This 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 fastback was meticulously designed to be a formidable powerhouse with exceptional handling. SoCal Paintworks in Santee, California, undertook the body preparation, which included lowering the floor pans and repositioning engine and transmission mounts to lower the center of gravity. An integrated subframe was added to enhance torsional strength, along with rear minitubs. The final bodywork was coated in a striking Lotus Exige British Racing Green and Black paint by House of Kolor.
The performance aspects of this Mustang were built to the highest standards. Total Performance, also based in Santee, expertly assembled the 363 CI small-block V-8, utilizing a World Products Man-O-War block, Diamond pistons with tool steel rings, an Eagle forged crank, and H-beam rods. The ported Edelbrock Victor Jr. heads and a Cam Motion hydraulic roller camshaft were added, complemented by a BBK SSI-R intake manifold and Racetronic 75-pound injectors, all working in harmony with a Custom Borg Warner AirWerks S480 80mm turbo. An Aeromotive fuel system and MSD 6A ignition contribute to the V-8’s impressive 800-plus HP output, meticulously tuned by Performance Associates in San Dimas. An aluminum radiator and electric fan maintain optimal temperatures.
The driveline is built for durability, featuring a McLeod RST twin-disc clutch, aluminum flywheel, and driveshaft. Power is transmitted through a Viper-sourced Borg Warner T56 6-speed transmission and a 3.25:1 Detroit TrueTrac rear end, supported by TCI leaf-spring rear suspension. The front suspension is race-inspired, featuring AJE struts with a tubular K-member, adjustable coilovers, A-arms, and rack-and-pinion steering. Mustang Cobra disc brakes are poised behind the Shelby CS56 wheels, wrapped in Toyo Proxes tires.