A Twin-Turbocharged Homage to a Racing Legend
- collin andrews
- May 5
- 3 min read
Updated: May 7
No matter how you shape it, a 1960s Ford Mustang carries a timeless sense of Americana that few cars can match. It’s a symbol of raw performance, bold design, and an era that defined American muscle.
This project took that identity and pushed it further than we ever had before, marking a defining milestone for our shop. What began as inspiration from one of the most iconic race builds in modern history evolved into the creation of our first Hoonicorn-inspired Mustang: a twin-turbocharged, 1,000-horsepower-capable warhorse built to honor the past while redefining what it can become.
Ken Block Influenced “Drift King” Mustang
This Mustang was originally commissioned by a client who was looking for a more streetable interpretation of the famous Ken Block Mustang dubbed the Hoonicorn. This Mustang represents a fusion of the aggressive motorsport DNA they were after, and matched it with refined, drivable comfort. Making sure the car could perform as well on the track as it could in traffic. We succeeded.
What’s Under The Hood?
Instead of simply copying the original Hoonigan build by stuffing an LS-based mill under the hood, we made a deliberate decision to remain true to our Ford heritage. We started with an aftermarket Dart Windsor block and stroked it to 427 cubic inches. Every nut, bolt, and bearing was tuned to provide the strength necessary for our desired horsepower and provide adequate longevity under forced induction.
We mirrored the visual and performance identity of the car after the “Hoonicorn V2” by utilizing two 63mm turbochargers mounted prominently through the hood. Giving the dramatic and iconic aesthetic, as well as allowing for substantial power capability.
Even under a very conservative tune of about 5psi of boost, this 427 was able to produce over 650 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque to the wheels. With additional tuning and added boost, the system is capable of making well over 1,000 horsepower.
The engine management is handled by a Holley Terminator system that’s paired with a Holley digital dash for real-time monitoring. The Mustang also has an Aeromotive fuel system to keep the boosted 427 fed to ensure proper fuel delivery in the most demanding of situations.
Behind that high-winding small-block Ford sits a Tremec T-56 manual transmission that’s connected to a Currie Enterprises 9-inch rear end with 31-spline axles and 3.73 rear gears to put that power to the asphalt. This combination gives this car an ultimate driving experience that showcases the raw power it is capable of using at any moment.
How Good Is The Chassis?
The chassis is built around a Detroit Speed aluminum front suspension that’s paired with an adjustable four-link rear suspension. Handling all this power and keeping it on the ground, this Mustang rides on Toyo Proxes R888s, with 295mm in the front and 335mm in the rear. Maximizing grip and performance while maintaining a meaningful and aggressive stance.
This War Horse Has The Look
This drift king stang is painted in a beautiful House of Kolor Brandywine, and an elegant candy apple color that contrasts nicely to the flared fenders and other modifications done to the body. We also incorporated a carbon fiber front end and rear bumper that shaves the weight of the car down to about 2,700lbs.
The cabin of the car reflects the modern motorsport aesthetic. The dash was shaved and wrapped in Alcantara to offer a minimalist appearance, while we also added Custom carbon fiber panels that include a GT350-style dash fascia. Glovebox door and rear panels.
A Very Streetable Monster
All in all, this beautiful Mustang is a very streetable car despite the immense power under the hood. But if you step on the throttle, hold on, because it will spin the tires through the first 3 gears without breaking a sweat.
We are immensely proud of this car and have used it as the foundation for future production cars we have and will build. Establishing a repeatable formula that blends performance with modern drivability and high-end craftsmanship.
If you're looking to learn more about this amazing build, check out a few of these links showcasing this killer War Horse.
Looking To Build Your Own?
If you're looking to have a restomod Mustang built similar to this, or if you have your own idea, contact us today! We pride ourselves on building bespoke Mustangs that are one of a kind. Delivering uniqueness and individuality into every handcrafted build.
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