The first-generation Ford Mustang, one of the most sought-after classic cars from the 1960s, remains relatively affordable due to Ford's massive production numbers. While Shelby, Cobra Jet, and Boss models can be pricey, a standard Mustang GT is generally more budget-friendly.
Six-cylinder models are even more affordable, as few people desire a first-gen Mustang without a V8. However, this presents a prime opportunity to create a restomod with a modern V8 hidden beneath a stock appearance.
This 1967 Fastback exemplifies how an engine swap, coupled with a mostly factory-stock exterior, can deliver extra power while preserving the vintage Mustang aesthetic—or creating a deceptively unassuming sleeper for weekend drag strip outings. Although it appears to be a stock 1967 GT, this pony car conceals a big-block powerhouse.
At some point, the Mustang's original 289 V8 was replaced with a 427-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) engine. Our host explains that the engine features an FE-type block similar to the one in the 1965 Shelby Cobra.
Ford introduced the FE into the Mustang lineup in 1967 as the S-code. With a 390-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) displacement, this engine produced 325 horsepower when equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. In 1968, horsepower increased to 335, and a two-barrel version with 270 horsepower was added.
So, how much power does it pack? Unfortunately, our host doesn't provide specifics. It's possible he isn't even sure of the exact output since he purchased the car as-is. Nevertheless, when the pedal is floored, the 427 roars to life with an unmistakable growl that surpasses the typical Ford FE. This aggression is unsurprising, considering the Holman Moody stickers adorning the valve covers.
This Mustang boasts a few other enhancements, including a custom exhaust system, a 1968-style "GT" gas cap, and an upgraded nine-inch rear end. Originally finished in Acapulco Blue, the Fastback was repainted in the equally striking Nightmist Blue, another 1967 color option.
While Acapulco Blue has its charm, Nightmist Blue shines brilliantly against the gleaming chrome and white stripes, making it an excellent choice.
Although it's no longer a factory-correct, numbers-matching classic, this Mustang outshines many restomods on the market. Its appeal lies in maintaining a stock appearance while harnessing the power of a big V8 that outperforms a Shelby GT500 or Mustang Cobra Jet.
Six-cylinder models are even more affordable, as few people desire a first-gen Mustang without a V8. However, this presents a prime opportunity to create a restomod with a modern V8 hidden beneath a stock appearance.
But what if a V8-powered GT's 289-cubic-inch (4.7-liter) engine isn't powerful enough? Swapping in a Ford big-block is always an option.
This 1967 Fastback exemplifies how an engine swap, coupled with a mostly factory-stock exterior, can deliver extra power while preserving the vintage Mustang aesthetic—or creating a deceptively unassuming sleeper for weekend drag strip outings. Although it appears to be a stock 1967 GT, this pony car conceals a big-block powerhouse.
At some point, the Mustang's original 289 V8 was replaced with a 427-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) engine. Our host explains that the engine features an FE-type block similar to the one in the 1965 Shelby Cobra.
While it's unlikely to be the iconic 425-horsepower "side-oiler," it undoubtedly offers more muscle than the original A-code four-barrel's 225 horsepower.
Ford introduced the FE into the Mustang lineup in 1967 as the S-code. With a 390-cubic-inch (6.4-liter) displacement, this engine produced 325 horsepower when equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. In 1968, horsepower increased to 335, and a two-barrel version with 270 horsepower was added.
Additionally, Ford offered a 427-cubic-inch FE HiPo variant in 1968. With 390 horsepower, it outperformed the 428-cubic-inch Cobra Jet's 335 horsepower, but at a notably higher price.
Consequently, the 427 FE's popularity paled in comparison to its counterparts, leading Ford to discontinue it after just one year. The 427 displacement was never offered in the 1967 Mustang, making this pony car unique and intriguing.
Consequently, the 427 FE's popularity paled in comparison to its counterparts, leading Ford to discontinue it after just one year. The 427 displacement was never offered in the 1967 Mustang, making this pony car unique and intriguing.
So, how much power does it pack? Unfortunately, our host doesn't provide specifics. It's possible he isn't even sure of the exact output since he purchased the car as-is. Nevertheless, when the pedal is floored, the 427 roars to life with an unmistakable growl that surpasses the typical Ford FE. This aggression is unsurprising, considering the Holman Moody stickers adorning the valve covers.
This Mustang boasts a few other enhancements, including a custom exhaust system, a 1968-style "GT" gas cap, and an upgraded nine-inch rear end. Originally finished in Acapulco Blue, the Fastback was repainted in the equally striking Nightmist Blue, another 1967 color option.
While Acapulco Blue has its charm, Nightmist Blue shines brilliantly against the gleaming chrome and white stripes, making it an excellent choice.
Thankfully, the car's modifier preserved the original two-tone blue interior, which ranks among the top three upholstery combinations from that era in my opinion.
Although it's no longer a factory-correct, numbers-matching classic, this Mustang outshines many restomods on the market. Its appeal lies in maintaining a stock appearance while harnessing the power of a big V8 that outperforms a Shelby GT500 or Mustang Cobra Jet.
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