As my 2023 cross-continental journey from Calgary to California neared its end, I set my sights on returning to Canada, planning a stop in Reno to visit a museum along the way. I was relying on GPS for navigation as I embarked on a cannonball run to make it home and squeeze in some stops before heading back to work in just two days. However, a GPS redirection, combined with misplaced trust in modern technology, led me off course, causing me to miss my intended stop in Reno, Nevada. It wasn't until I found myself heading north into Redding, California, that I realised my mistake. Adjusting my plans and considering the timing of my arrival in Spokane, Washington, I decided to search for any nearby automotive events. To my surprise, I discovered that the Street Tin Car Show & Swap Meet was taking place as I approached the town. Without hesitation, I raced my 1973 Ford Gran Torino from northern California to attend the event, eager to enjoy one last gathering of classic cars before reentering Canada.

My 1973 Gran Torino amongst the other show vehicles shortly after arriving to the Street Tin Car Show & Swap Meet

At the Street Tin Car Show, I was welcomed by an impressive collection of classic cars, but one vehicle truly stood out from the rest. This modified 1965 Ford Mustang fastback was extensively altered to reflect the owner's unique style and taste.

Front of the '65 Mustang, featuring the unique double grille alteration

The modifications made to this Ford Mustang were a unique blend of modifications, with the most striking changes evident in the front end. Notably, the front valance, bumper, and grille underwent a dramatic change. The lower front valance was skillfully altered, featuring a factory Mustang grille and surround that were ingeniously flipped upside down. This gave the pony car a prominent shark-mouth style intake, reminiscent of the iconic bodykit seen on the Eleanor Mustang from the movie "Gone In 60 Seconds" (2000).

Closer shot of the front alterations to the 1965 Mustang

In addition to the revamped front end, the bumper was meticulously cut, sectioned, and contoured to fit around the lower grille, evoking a nod to the RS Camaro's split bumper design from its 1970-1973 production. All these modifications harmoniously blended together, creating a truly tasteful appearance that almost seemed like it could have been considered as a factory option back in its day.

An example of a 1967 Ford Mustang done like the iconic Eleanor Mustang, also sporting the large shark-mouth style bumper

Continuing to explore the car, one couldn't miss the distinctive hood scoop, which was a unique amalgamation of design elements from the Ford Cobra Jet and Mopar Hemi shaker scoops that were part of each company's high performance cars around the 1970 model year. The car's paint job was executed in a hue reminiscent of Ford's iconic Highland Green, paying homage to the historic Bullitt Mustang. To enhance its visual appeal, it featured a Mach 1 style hood design finished in a striking graphite grey metallic shade.

Inside of the 1965 Mustang

Moving to the rear of the Mustang, a Shelby-inspired ducktail spoiler was a notable addition, drawing inspiration from the later model Shelby GT series of Mustangs. This subtle yet stylish touch contributed to the sporty aesthetics of Ford's early iterations of their iconic pony car.

Rear of the 1965 Mustang, showcasing the custom Shelby inspired ducktail spoiler added to the rear

I had the pleasure of encountering this 1965 Ford Mustang fastback towards the conclusion of my 2023 journey across North America. It was a truly distinctive interpretation of the beloved pony car, featuring modifications such as a customised front valance, a shaker hood, and that iconic dark green shade reminiscent of the Bullitt Mustang's Highland Green. This fastback pony car stood out as a significant highlight during the final show I attended before my imminent return to Canada.

Until the next time I see you guys, get wrenching, get driving, and keep these classics alive!

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics