Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
This 1965 Ford Mustang fastback is not your typical classic pony car. Acquired by its owner in 1990 and immediately converted into a dedicated race machine, it has spent the subsequent decades competing in numerous historical motorsport events. A significant overhaul in 2008 by Dralle Engineering further refined its performance capabilities. Now boasting an alloy 331ci stroker V8 engine, claimed to produce approximately 560 horsepower, and paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a Detroit locker, this Wimbledon White Mustang is a proven winner with a compelling racing pedigree.
Engine and Performance: The heart of this racing Mustang is a potent alloy 302ci V8 engine, meticulously built by Dave Dralle with a Sony Bryant crankshaft, Carrillo connecting rods, and forged pistons. The resulting displacement is 331 cubic inches, and the engine is claimed to generate an impressive ~560 horsepower. Having undergone a recent refresh, the engine has seen approximately 11 hours of competition use, indicating its readiness for further track action. Preparatory work for its offering included adjusting the valves and replacing the battery and valve cover gaskets, ensuring optimal performance.
Drivetrain: Power from the high-performance V8 engine is channeled through a robust four-speed Jericho manual transmission, known for its durability and precise gear changes under racing conditions. The transmission is linked to a Detroit locker rear end with a 3.80 gear ratio, providing maximum traction and efficient power transfer to the rear wheels. The dual exhaust system features a cross-over pipe and exits ahead of the rear axle, contributing to the car’s aggressive sound and potentially enhancing exhaust flow.
Chassis and Suspension: The Mustang’s suspension system has been extensively modified for optimal track performance. It features competition front springs, narrower rear leaf springs, a Panhard bar to control lateral movement of the rear axle, adjustable front strut rods for fine-tuning the front-end geometry, and a front sway bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Export and Monte Carlo braces have been added to stiffen the chassis, improving handling and responsiveness. High-performance Koni dampers are fitted to control wheel movement and maintain grip. The brakes have also been upgraded with a dual-circuit master cylinder, ’66 Lincoln front calipers and rotors for increased stopping power, and 11″ Galaxie drums at the rear, providing a balanced and effective braking system for racing.
Exterior Modifications: Originally ordered in Wimbledon White, the exterior of this Mustang fastback has been adapted for racing. In 2008, Dave Dralle widened the fenders to accommodate the wider 15″ PS Engineering wheels, measuring 8″ wide at the front and 9″ wide at the rear, which are currently mounted with Hoosier slicks for maximum grip on the track. A lightweight fiberglass hood with a scoop has been fitted and is secured with pins for quick removal. R-style details, including side scoops and a front valance, have been added to enhance the car’s aerodynamic profile and aggressive appearance. To further reduce weight and streamline the car for racing, the windshield wipers and headlights have been removed.
Stripped Interior and Safety Equipment: The interior of this Mustang has been stripped down to its essential racing components. A roll bar provides crucial driver protection in the event of a rollover. The driver is secured in a Kirkey race seat with a harness for safety during high-speed maneuvers. Additional safety equipment includes a camera mount for capturing on-track action and safety nets. An electrical control box with toggle switches is mounted on the transmission tunnel, along with the lever for the fire suppression system, a vital safety feature for any race car.
Instrumentation and Controls: The driver benefits from the addition of Stewart-Warner gauges, providing critical information about the engine’s performance. A leather-wrapped steering wheel mounted on a quick-release hub allows for easy entry and exit. A Hurst shifter ensures precise and quick gear changes during intense racing. An hour meter, displaying 280.6 hours with handwritten dates, is located in the trunk alongside the fuel cell and battery, providing a record of the car’s operational time.
Racing History: This Mustang race car boasts a significant and successful competition history since its 2008 rebuild. It has achieved numerous class wins in B Production and GT Production classes for prestigious vintage racing organizations such as VARA, HSR, and SVRA. These victories were secured at renowned racetracks including Sonoma Raceway, Willow Springs Raceway, and Laguna Seca Raceway, demonstrating the car’s proven performance and the skill of its drivers over the years. Event stickers applied around the windshield serve as a visual testament to its participation in these historical racing events.
Class Wins:
- VARA Willow Springs Raceway B Production – November 2008
- HSR West Willow Springs Raceway B Production – March 2009
- HSR West Auto Club Speedway B Production – June 2009
- HSR West Sonoma Raceway B Production – August 2009
- HSR West Willow Springs Raceway B Production – October 2009
- VARA Willow Springs Raceway B Production – November 2009
- HSR West Auto Club Speedway B Production – June 2010
- VARA BBB Willow Springs Raceway B Production – November 2010
- HSR West Willow Springs Raceway B Production – March 2011
- HSR West Auto Club Speedway B Production – June 2012
- HSR West Chuckwalla Valley B Production – November 2012
- VARA Willow Springs Raceway B Production – March 2015
- SVRA Auto Club Speedway B Production – June 2015
- VARA Willow Springs Raceway B Production – March 2016
- SVRA Laguna Seca Raceway GT Production – May 2024
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle, especially a dedicated race car, and its suitability for their intended use.
AI Assistance: Gemini
