1966 Ford Mustang

Description

This 1966 Ford Mustang is a thoughtfully upgraded example of how to blend classic muscle car looks with real-world performance and street drivability. The result of a previous ground-up restoration, the car was purpose-built to be more engaging and rewarding to drive, without compromising the iconic lines and timeless presence that make early Mustangs so desirable. It's not an overbuilt track weapon or a trailer queen, it's a street-driven performer with the right hardware to back it up.

The exterior remains clean and period-correct, retaining the original body lines, factory-style trim, and brightwork. Finished in a bold metallic blue, the paint has a deep gloss and strong metallic flake that shifts beautifully in the light. The car sits just right over a set of 17-inch Billet Specialties wheels, wrapped in BF Goodrich G-Force Sport Comp 2 tires.

Under the hood is where the Mustang really comes alive. The factory engine is long gone, replaced by a stout 302 cubic inch V8 that's been completely overhauled by the team at Springfield Custom Auto Machine. Built for reliable power and street manners, the engine features aluminum Edelbrock heads, an Edelbrock intake manifold, MSD ignition, a COMP Cams hydraulic roller camshaft, and a FAST electronic fuel injection system. The headers are from JBA, feeding into a stainless steel dual exhaust system with Magnaflow mufflers that give the car a deep, aggressive tone without droning at cruising speeds. The setup produces an impressive 364 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, serious performance for a lightweight classic.

Backing the engine is a Tremec T5 5-speed manual transmission that brings a more modern gear spread and much better highway manners than the original units offered in '66. The rear end is a Ford 8” unit with 3.55 gears and a limited-slip differential, a great match for spirited driving and usable torque across the rev range.

The suspension has been upgraded for sharper handling and spirited driving. Up front, you'll find tubular control arms and adjustable strut rods from Global West Suspension, paired with Edelbrock shocks that improve damping and control without being harsh. In the rear, traction bars help plant the power under acceleration. The chassis is further reinforced with subframe connectors from Global West, adding rigidity and improving overall stability during aggressive driving. Four-wheel disc brakes from Baer give this classic Mustang modern stopping ability, which is a crucial complement to the engine and suspension upgrades.

Inside, the cabin keeps its vintage appeal but has been refreshed and lightly modernized. The restored blue interior features bucket seats, factory-style door panels, and a traditional dash layout. A short throw shifter with a white cue ball knob connects you directly to the drivetrain, and a leather-wrapped 3-spoke steering wheel fronts a column-mounted tachometer. A Pioneer AM/FM/CD head unit is tastefully integrated and includes SiriusXM capability, giving you the benefit of modern audio without compromising the car's retro character.

This Mustang hits the sweet spot for enthusiasts who want the look and feel of a first-gen pony car with the performance and drivability of a more modern build. It's a car that invites you to row through the gears, lean into the corners, and actually drive.

Key Highlights

• Ground up restored Mustang Coupe
• Upgraded suspension and brakes
• 302ci V8
• FAST electronic fuel-injection
• Aluminum cylinder heads
• 364 rwhp / 350 rwtq
• Tremec T5 5-speed manual transmission
• Ford 8" rear end with 3.55 gears, Limited-slip differential
• Hydraulic roller cam
• JBA headers
• Dual stainless steel Magnaflow exhaust
• Front tubular control arms and adjustable strut rods
• Subframe connectors
• Traction bars
• Baer four-wheel disc brakes
• Bucket seat interior
• Upholstered trunk compartment
• Pioneer AM/FM/CD/SiriusXM
• Column-mounted tachometer
• 17" Billet Specialties wheels