Mustang Fastback ‘GT350’ Restomod Is a Unique Beast
Tyler Hoover’s latest acquisition is an unconventional choice for him, but a welcome one, and a very interesting Mustang to boot.
Restomods are controversial to a certain subset of the enthusiast community. Basically, some people argue that classic cars should reflect how they left the factory. While we understand that sentiment, it is hard to deny the appeal of putting modern powertrains in older vehicles. Additionally, putting updated tech into a classic car has its benefits.
That’s the gist of a recent video from automotive YouTuber Tyler Hoover, who operates Hoovie’s Garage. He ended up buying a 1966 Ford Mustang Fastback restomod styled to look like a GT350. He calls the Mustang a GT350 “tribute car” because it isn’t really a true Shelby. That being said, it’s one cool ride and he absolutely loves it. And for good reason.
Cheapest Restomod Mustang in America
Tyler Hoover is known for purchasing the cheapest of any particular type of vehicle in the country. Generally, because of their low prices, they tend to come with some pre-existing issues. In the case of the restomod Mustang, the opposite is true. He jumped at the opportunity to own his tribute Shelby because their values are going up. Additionally, he just loves the Mustang and wanted one due to being a fan. “And I’ve wanted one of these for as long as I can remember but have held off. Until last year when I was on Jay Leno’s Garage TV show and he took me for a ride in a real one. And I’ve just been dreaming about buying one ever since,” said Hoover. He explained his purchase as the best option for buying a collectible because the prices for something like a 1966 Mustang can be astronomical.
Overall, it seems like the $31,000 price tag was money well spent. He bought the Mustang from someone who owned it for a long time. The previous owner even restored the car twice! It was that second time that he decided to do the restomod. Aside from the mechanical and modern equipment added to the car, it seems like the previous owner did a spectacular job with the restoration.
“Really, as far as restorations go this is super impressive. The panels are all lining up really well. About as good as you can expect from a factory car in the 1960s,” said Hoover. The paint job is basically what you’d expect from a professional organization. Although the paint itself is actually a Mopar product! Despite that choice, it looks amazing.
True Restomod
Hoover shows viewers around the interior and also opens up the hood. Inside, there are a lot of modern amenities added by the previous owner, like a modern BlueTooth enabled stereo system. It also lacks rear seats because the previous owner replaced them with a surprisingly high-quality box that contains an amplifier and subwoofer. Similarly, the Mustang now has several 12-volt power outlets and a custom center console with cupholders.
None of that holds a candle to what lies under the hood though. A 5.0-liter V8 from a 1993 Mustang that was rebuilt to properly accept a Kenne Bell supercharger. Estimated horsepower is apparently 370, which means it puts down significantly more power than the 289 V8 it came with when it left the factory. Also, the previous owner installed better brakes and outfitted the tribute with all the suspension bits that allow it to handle like a genuine GT350.
It’s Fun
Hoover purchased the Stang against the wishes of one of his friends, who felt the restomod dishonors the legacy of the GT350. Fortunately, the friend came around when he actually saw the Mustang in person. Hoover makes a very good point about why this car makes sense. First off, despite being a restomod, it still has era appropriate brakes, steering and suspension. That makes it feel like an older car. Plus, since it’s a restomod, it’s not a museum piece that absolutely should be preserved. “If I had bought a real Shelby Mustang would I be driving it like I am right now?
Absolutely not! It would be in my garage surrounded by a velvet rope. I’d be terrified to take it out and do exactly what I’m doing now. Just running through the gears and having fun!” says Hoover. Isn’t that kind of the point of owning a classic Mustang? We applaud Hoover for his super cool purchase and hope to see more of it. Make sure to check out the whole video to hear the beast for yourself.