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.

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.

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.

For the engine Bret elected to go with 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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