A Modern Classic...
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 Bret
Jordan of Pleasanton, CA has assembled one sharp looking '65 Fastback.
Overall Bret wanted to have the styling of a classic car while enjoying
the benefits and handling of a newer car. Judging from the combination
of performance parts and styling cues, I'd say Bret got exactly what
he was looking for. |
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 Body...
The body has been treated to a midnight metallic blue base with silver
rally stripes to offset the chrome components. A fiberglass hood with
Shelby scoop was installed to reduce some front end weight to help in
the handling department and give it a more aggressive look. The grill
area was dressed up with the installation of Tri-Bar vintage style headlamps
a GT grill and GT lower valance.
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  Interior...
For
the most part the classic look was maintained in the interior. The black
pony interior was accented by the addition of a Carrera woodgrain steering
wheel and Total Control Products billet aluminum pedal covers. A Haneline
instrument cluster was chosen for more precise readings and a more modern
look. The inside of the car gives little hint as to what lies beneath.
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 Engine...
For the engine Bret elected to go with a 351 Windsor with aluminum
Edelbrock Performer heads and an aluminum Edelbrock Performer intake.
To further reduce weight at the front of the vehicle an aluminum water
pump was also installed. A MSD ignition and Holley 750, with vacuum
secondary, feed the engine as exhaust is handled by JBA Shorty headers,
Flowmasters and 2 1/2" exhaust. This combination makes for a nice
driver that has that extra something when you need it most.
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 Chassis...
A
35 year old unit-body chassis makes it difficult to achieve top notch
handling characteristics, so a little assistance from Total Control
Products was required. TCP's complete Tower Brace Kit was installed
to strengthen the engine bay and shock towers. To further tighten up
the chassis TCP's Subframe Connectors were welded into place along with
their unique bolt-in cross brace. The difference in handling after reinforcing
the chassis was a very welcomed surprise.
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 Suspension/Steering...
For a much needed suspension and steering upgrade, Bret again turned
to Total Control Products for the answer. A manual Rack & Pinion
would be the fix for the Mustangs inherently poor steering system while
a Coilover Conversion kit would give the sporty and responsive ride
that Bret was looking for. Del Alum bushings were installed at the rear
leafs for a more solid feel. KYB Gas-a-Just shocks at the rear and Aldan
Eagle adjustable coilovers in the front provide predictable and sure
handling.
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  Wheels/Brakes...
Chassis
and suspension upgrades are not able to perform to their fullest ability
without a tire, wheel and brake combination that is up to the task.
American Racing Torque Thrust II's were fitted with Dunlop Sport 9000
tires. 17x7 with 205/40ZR17's in the front and 17x8 with 245/40ZR17's
bringing up the rear.
Stopping
power is handled by Wilwood disc brakes all the way around. The 12"
rotors in the front complimented by the 11" rotors in the rear
made a dramatic difference in the stopping distance. The increased wheel
diameter, low profile tires and disc brakes work very well together
and give a modern yet classic styled appearance.
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  Restomod
Style...
The completed project's performance is a world away from the original
factory version. The power, handling and stopping characteristics of
a modern sports car are now conveniently packaged in a classic automobile.
Bret now enjoys cruising the East Bay Area and oceanfront drives down
California's winding coastal highway 1 with a confidence and sureness
never before felt in his 35 year old vehicle.
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Links...
Fiberglass Hood - www.maierracing.com
Engine Components - www.edelbrock.com
Suspension/Steering - www.totalcontrolproducts.com
Wheels - www.americanracing.com
Tires - www.dunlop.com
Brakes - www.wilwood.com
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