Classic Recreations ’69 Stang Packs Twin-turbo 1,000-HP Coyote
Perfect mix of classic style and modern performance makes Classic Recreations’ latest build our ultimate Mustang.
Restomod Mustang builds are nothing new, as plenty of folks understand the benefits of combining classic style and modern mechanicals. But these builds vary wildly in quality, which is what separates the novices from the pros. After scoping out this incredible 1969 Mustang Mach 1 from Classic Recreations, we can confidently say that this amazing machine belongs squarely in the latter category. In fact, some (read: us) would even dare call it the ultimate Mustang.
This classic masterpiece, dubbed “Hitman,” is the latest creation from the Oklahoma-based custom coach builder. And oh, what a creation it is. For starters, this car is the very first Mach 1 produced as part of an exclusive licensing deal with Ford. Classic Recreations’ deal to produce these continuation cars also extends to the Boss 302 and Boss 429. That means customers can order up their own bespoke, custom-built Mustang like this one. And that’s obviously a good thing.
As for this particular car, well, it started out life as a real Mach 1. Classic Recreations stripped it down and gave it a beautiful two-tone grey and black paint job. The car rolls on modern American Racing wheels wrapped in Michelin rubber. Otherwise, they left the outside mostly original. What lies underneath, however, is anything but. A fully custom suspension setup consists of Total Control coilovers and front and rear sway bars. Meanwhile, massive six-piston Wilwood brakes at all four corners help slow it all down.
With a Mustang that looks this wicked, you don’t really need to go overboard with power. But Classic Recreations did anyway. Under the hood, you’ll find a twin-turbo’d Coyote V8 that pumps out a whopping 1,000 horsepower. It’s backed up by a super strong Tremec six-speed manual transmission and bulletproof 9-inch rear end. According to the builder, the car’s engine management system is specifically designed to get all that power to the ground, too.
Make no mistake, however – this is no stripped-out racer. The interior is packed with amenities including air conditioning and a thumping stereo system to complement the classic look. There’s also a rollbar for safety purposes, along with nice touches like a woodgrain aluminum steering wheel. Meanwhile, a BeCool aluminum radiator and dual electric fans keep things cool under the hood while you’re stuck in traffic.
Altogether, Classic Recreation’s ’69 Mustang Mach 1 is a true masterpiece of engineering. And to us, it represents the perfect mix of new and old. But customers are able to spec their own cars exactly the way they want them, from period-correct restoration to full-blown restomod. And everything in between. But personally, we’d take this gorgeous Mustang exactly the way it sits.
Photos: Classic Recreations