Things are looking to be slowly turning back to normal in the outside world, but Mustang Maniac is still being very selective about what comes in and who comes into our own sanctuary. We are dealing with safety issues where we can and gentle turn over of service cars. We have a shocking dangerous car that has come in for a little handling issue should we say, more on that after the popular Park & Pic.

Park & Pic

“The Onion” pops into us now and again for a little fettle hear and there, but recently had a new set of boots fitted. Classic stock look with a lightweight modern twist.

Customer Cars

This car came into us to check over. Like all things we start with the basics and got her up on the ramp to take a look. We have seen this many times before and even posted about this too; the top suspension arm bushes had all but disintegrated, this caused some movement where there shouldn’t be any.

We of course were not going to repair it. This was a suspension strip down and replace parts job. The parts are cheap enough compared to the many hours it would take to restore these parts.

Not only that the mounting holes had rotted out. Welding patches on a suspension part we will leave for some other companies. Rust can’t be helped and we get that, rust is an on going problem that is relentless in its quest to eat metal. But, regular checks when greasing the ball joints, oil service etc. should include checking these areas fully both front and rear of the car.

We don’t need to tell you just how dangerous this is, an accident waiting to happen. A bump to many, an unexpected steering could see a huge failure.

This is where Mustang Maniac doesn’t agree with MOT exception for classic vehicles in the UK. We would like to see all vehicles checked for safety each year. But, we do think that there should be MOT based on classic cars. Things like parts that have been replaced because the originals are no longer made or not available, steering “play” which is normal for these cars, but will be failed by many inexperienced MOT testers. On this point we have had a number of ‘conversations’ with previous MOT test centres that we used to use who tried to tell us what was wrong with the vehicles. The fact was the parts in question were brand new parts on a full restoration, and easily within Ford’s specifications. In situations like that where restoring these cars is our passion and lively hood, (without sounding pompous), we do know best. Lights that have been upgraded to LED are safer and clearer, but technically a failure because the bulbs are not originals etc. Common sense needs to be used when dealing with these cars. If these “Classic MOT” tests were in force, then things like this wear and tear would be picked up before it was dangerous. We are pleased (and proud) to say that every one of our conscientious and regular customers that bring their cars to us on an annual basis for check up, also want the MOT just for the peace of mind. The customer also wants to protect their investments by making sure their pride and joy doesn’t suffer a failure and end up destroyed through an avoidable accident.

News:

From Dearborn 29th May 2020 some exciting news was released:

With speed, style and a name that embodies both, Ford today announces the Mustang Mach 1 is roaring back to life this year, with its debut coming this spring.

The iconic fastback coupe that debuted during the first golden era of muscle cars in the late-1960s now returns for global Mustang enthusiasts looking for the epitome of naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 performance in a new golden age of power as a new choice in the lineup of the world’s best-selling sports car.

“Mach 1 has a special place in Mustang history, and it’s time for this special edition to claim the top spot in our 5.0-liter V8 performance lineup and reward our most hardcore Mustang enthusiasts who demand that next level of power, precision and collectability,” said Dave Pericak, director, Ford Icons. “Like the original, the all-new Mustang Mach 1 will be true to its heritage, delivering great looks and as the most track-capable 5.0-liter Mustang ever.”

Continuing the legacy of Mach 1

Mach 1 debuted for the 1969 model year and immediately carved out its place in the Mustang lineup, delivering performance and improved dynamics with its GT handling suspension. In the years that followed, Mach1 saw improved performance versus Mustang GT and was more attainable than Shelby and Boss variants.

“Mach 1 has always been that bridge between base Mustangs and the Shelby models,” said Ted Ryan, heritage brand manager, Ford Archives. “From a style and handling perspective, the original Mach 1 managed to stand out as unique, even in the Mustang lineup – and as the name implies, it could really move.”

Two years after its debut, Mach 1 with its competition suspension hit the streets in 1971 longer and larger than the original, with an assortment of powerful engine options. In 1974, Mach 1 again saw major changes, reimagined for the first time as a hatchback. This Mach 1 generation enjoyed a five-year run and beefed up its handling capabilities more with an optional Rallye Suspension Package.

Mach 1 returned for 2003 and 2004 model years, blending modern power with the nostalgia of 1970s-era Mach 1 design elements. Its unique Mach 1 handling suspension with larger Brembo front-disc brakes improved on-road performance, while its matte black spoiler and hood stripe helped the coupe standout.

Seventeen years later, the all-new 2021 Mustang Mach 1 is set to return as the most track-ready 5.0-liter Mustang ever, once again delivering design magic while adding to its performance legacy. 

When Yogi read about this? He just smiled and said “I will see it on the 1/4 mile anytime!”

Stay safe everybody. 😷