If this custom 1978 Ford Mustang II coupe looks somewhat familiar, it might be because you read about the car a long time ago in the pages of HOT ROD magazine. A lot of years have passed since that time, and now we find the unique whip sporting fresh paint and listed on Mecum Auctions’ website as Lot #W124, poised to hopefully be sold (for no reserve) at the upcoming “Dana Mecums’ 37th Original Spring Classic,” May 10 to May 18, 2024, at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis.
1978 Ford Mustang
At its core, this car is a 1978 Mustang II; a ’Stang from the 1974-to-1978 stable of Ponies considered by most die-hard enthusiasts to be the worst Mustangs ever. We’ll call this one an anomaly, as it’s a radically customized version that we think even the hardest-core Mustang II haters will concede is badass.
The ’Stang’s slick Grabber Blue paint is the first eye-catcher, but its aggressive stance and the fact that it is, well, considerably longer than a stock Mustang II (thanks to a 12-inch frame extension using 1 5/8-inch DOM steel), are the real physical qualities that demand one’s attention.
It’s called “Phoenix,” a name that we think is very appropriate for a Mustang that has risen from obscurity. The Pony sits on an independent suspension, with 325/30ZR19 Toyo Proxes T1 rear tires (on 19-inch wheels) and 18s up front dressed in 275/35R18 boots. Custom bulged fenders, as well as a trick fascia that appears to have hints of both original Mustang II and S197 styling incorporated in the headlight buckets, grill, and front bumper. In the back, the ’Stang’s taillights are said to be from a Ford Torino.
The car’s body and paint are awesome, but there’s much more to this trick ride. Black leather adorns an interior that is highlighted by a custom dash and tilt steering column that take styling cues from a 1969 ’Stang, and there’s a slick electronic instrument cluster, and a tall center console that houses the ignition key, start button, and the shifter for a Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission. A multipoint, body-colored rollcage surrounds the cabin and provides safety for driver and passenger, and strengthens the chassis, as well.
Although it’s only seen when the hood is up, the Mustang II’s engine is arguably the brightest star in this ultra-custom ride. A second-generation 5.0-liter Ford Coyote V-8 engine is the powerplant that is highlighted by the individual 55mm throttle bodies of Borla’s Eight Stack electronic fuel-injection system and made audible by the company’s three-inch stainless exhaust with Atak mufflers. Engine tuning is handled with a Holley EFI Terminator X ECU.
Phoenix is one of a kind, that’s for sure. And, again, we think this custom coupe commands acknowledgement from the staunchest Mustang II opposers. It will be interesting to see how bidders feel about it on Wednesday, May 15, when this one-of-a-kind 1978 Ford Mustang II crosses the block at Mecum/Indy, an auction that you can watch live on MotorTrend, MAX, and Discovery.
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