Pony cars were the hottest thing on the street throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. Then came the 1973 oil crisis, leaving those muscle machines idling in service station lines. Emissions regulations further choked performance out of those icons of the strip.
The Ford Mustang II, like this 1976 model recently sold on eBay, is a poster child for these neutered models. But we see a lot to like about these mostly unloved classics.
The Pinto-Based Mustang
First, let’s get the negative stuff out of the way. Yes, the Mustang II—the second full generation of the Mustang—is based on the Pinto - opens in new window or tab.. That’s a small, pedestrian car. No, this Mustang is not fast. Even with the top-of-the-line 302ci V-8 fitted to this example, it struggles to produce 140 horsepower. And to most eyes, it’s not a pretty car.
But you can correct these shortcomings. Remember, the original Mustang was based on the small, relatively meek Falcon.
If performance is what you seek, you could do worse than starting with this 1976 Mustang. After all, the small-block Ford V-8 is one of the most popular engines for modification ever produced.
Also, the front suspension from the Mustang II leaves a bunch of room in the engine bay for adding a larger engine. And if you want to make the car handle, know that the Mustang II suspension is adapted for aftermarket hot-rodding like few others. Any number of hop-up Mustang parts are just a click away - opens in new window or tab. at eBay Motors.
How To Make a Sleeper
The styling on this Ghia is admittedly a bit overwrought. A padded vinyl roof and cushy quilted vinyl seats are generally not going to earn any performance cred. That’s why this could be an incredible sleeper if you want to stray from the original, well, homeliness of this car.
No one would suspect modern muscle-car performance from a Ford Mustang II Ghia, and that could be a lot of fun. Here’s a thought. Swap in the entire drivetrain from the modern Mustang - opens in new window or tab.—the 400-horsepower 5-liter Coyote engine with a six-speed manual. Then fit a suspension and brakes that can handle the power and slap on wide wheels and tires. But leave the rest of the style alone.
Or you could leave a car like this Mustang II Ghia entirely unchanged. Keep it looking like new, and the enthusiast crowd will appreciate your efforts.
At $5,700, it was an attractively priced classic and sold fast. Unfortunately, that one is gone. But you can keep your eye on another second-gen Mustang sleeper that might pop up on eBay.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.