Better-than-GT handling is due in part to the modern radial tires which wrap the classic rims, but also because of the Shelby-style suspension mods that were performed in West Coast's shop. This includes the typical 1-inch upper control-arm drop, beefy springs and sway bar, Monte Carlo bar, and under-ride traction bars, yet one of the biggest improvements is fully hidden from view. We're talking about the 2x3-inch custom subframe connectors that were cut into the floorpans by the craftsman hands of John Carlson. These beefy, box-tube pieces will put any other bolt-on or weld-in connectors to shame and come as close to creating a full frame chassis as a unibody is apt to get.
In explaining his fondness for this black GT, Dave says, "if I'd had the funds back in 1966 when I graduated from high school, this is the kind of Mustang I'd have bought and built." Sure, he'd have had to forgo the powerful sound system, LeCarra leather-wrapped steering wheel, MSD spark box, and dual-reservoir master cylinder, but the '65 is otherwise quite similar to what Dave's "dream car" might have been back in the day. And while 40 years have surely reshaped his interpretation of an ultimate ride, this triple deuce coupe aptly demonstrates the timeless allure of the original ponycar.
The Details
1965 Mustang GT Coupe
Owner: Dave Lennartz, Vancouver, WA
Engine
1965 289, Bored .030, Assembled By Dave Bliss
Hi-Po 289 Cylinder Heads
Hi-Po 289 Exhaust Manifolds
Ford Three Two-Barrel Induction Kit, 775 Cfm
Aftermarket Hydraulic Cam
Roller Rockers
Transmission
C4 Cruise-O-Matic
Rearend
8-Inch
3.50 Gears
Traction-Lok
Suspension
Front: Lowered A-Arms, High-Rate Springs, Larger Sway
Bar, Monte Carlo Bar
Rear: High-Rate Springs, Traction Master Underide
Bars,Custom Full-Length 2x3-Inch Subframe Connectors
Brakes
Front: Factory Kelsey-Hayes Discs, Four-Piston Calipers
Rear: Factory Drums
Dual-Reservoir Master Cylinder Conversion
Wheels
Front: Vintage Wheel Works 45, 14x7
Rear: Vintage Wheel Works 45, 14x7
Tires
Front: Yokohama, P225/60R14
Rear: Yokohama, P225/60R14
Interior
Lecarra Steering Wheel
Shelby Gauge Pod
Factory Full-Length Console