1965 Mustang with 427

[Chrisss31]

I stumbled on a clip today that said Ford rolled out 11 Fastback Mustangs in 1965 with 427s.  Does anyone know if this is true?  I'd like to read about this or better yet see some pictures.  Any info would be appreciated.

[thatdarncat]

I’m guessing what they were referencing were the 1965 A/FX Mustang drag racing cars Ford had commissioned. They were all out race cars that were predecessors to what eventually became the early funny cars.

The first car was built at Dearborn Steel Tubing for Dick Brannon, then 10 more were built at Holman & Moody.

Here’s a link to an excellent old magazine article on the construction of the 10 cars Holman & Moody built.

http://wildaboutcarsonline.com/members/AardvarkPublisherAttachments/9990472262350/1965-04SS_AFXMustang_buildTech_1-6.pdf

[thatdarncat]

Charlie Morris has written some excellent books on Ford racing & The Ford Drag Team era, and the 1965 A/FX Mustangs are covered in some of those. There’s also information over on the H*A*M*B.

The first car was built at Dearborn Steel Tubing for Dick Brannan, then Ford commissioned 10 more cars to be built at Holman & Moody for the other Drag Team members.

[Chrisss31]

Thank you Kevin.  The story I read made it sound as though they were street cars, but I'm certain these are the 11 cars they were talking about.  The article you posted a link to was a great read, they covered the work very well.  I'm surprised that all DST/H&M did to stiffen up the cars was adding roll cage unless there was other work done that wasn't shown.  Cool pictures.

[thatdarncat]

[1968galaxie]

The 65 and 66 mustang engine compartment would require plenty of modifications (cutting and welding etc..) to make room for the FE.
I did see a 351C dropped into a 65 mustang years ago - and it was a very tight fit.

[thatdarncat]

[machoneman]

Do we know if any of these cars survive today in their original form?

Back then, it was common to keep modifying older drag cars to keep up with the competition. Crashes took their toll as well. But it would be great to see one in all it's past unmodified glory.

[Chrisss31]

I thought maybe Gas Ronda was a survivor but it's not.  The rear axle is moved forward such that the wheels are right at the back of the doors and the engine is pushed back as well.

[e philpott]

Jim Demmitt car is still close to original , his son post on here from time to time and currently selling some HiRiser heads that were raced on the car at one time on the FE facebook garage