1968 FORD MUSTANG FASTBACK

The main reasons you bought this car?
This car had already had a lot of work done to it and personally, I feel it’s the last of the good shape for classic Mustangs. 

When did you buy it?
In 2011, on eBay, sight-unseen. 

How do you rate the overall condition?
It’s now very good. I’ve had a lot more work done on it in NZ, partly for compliance, but primarily because the standard of welding in the US left a bit to be desired. 

The features you like most?
I really like the way this one sits. It’s got a great stance and the right drop on it. Also, the 302 has been stroked to 331 cubic inches and makes a healthy 450 horsepower. 

Anything unusual about this car’s history?
Before bidding on the car, I spoke with the seller in the States and it turns out he had been president of the Shelby Club in New York. That was a good endorsement. 

How often do you use it?
Every month. 

Your longest trip in this car to date?
To Beach Hop each year – Lower Hutt to Whangamata. 

The most complex service or repair job to date?
Fitting a power steering box, which has made a big difference. It was real tussle manoeuvring the car without assistance. I also put up with the car bottoming out for about three years but taking out the leaf spring and fitting a heavier one solved the problem without the car going up any more. 

Has the car exceeded your expectations in any ways?
Yes, in the way it handles compared with other old Mustangs. Anyone who has driven an older car would appreciate the difference. 

Do you have long-term intentions with your car?
Sure. And the next job will be to pull the motor out to fix an oil leak and freshen it up. 

Do you currently own other special-interest vehicles?
A 1957 Chev. 

What was the first American car you drove?
This Mustang was the first. 

What was the very first car you drove, and where did you drive it?
It was a Graham Paige, in Lower Hutt, that was cut down into a truck.

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