Thunderstang is a 1989 Ford Mustang LX that was bought for only $2,000.00 in 2005. The vehicle is black with gray interior and was powered by a 2.3 liter naturally aspirated engine that delivered a weak 88 horsepower. The power was transferred through an automatic transmission. This was the ideal vehicle to have in 1989 when someone wanted a sporty vehicle without the high insurance costs and great gas mileage(20-26 mpg). In 2007 the NA engine and automatic transmission retired after 18 years of service. The plant was replaced with a rebuilt 1987 Ford Thunderbird turbocoupe engine an a Borg Warner 5-speed manual transmission from a 1992 Mustang GT. The 190 HP engine was outfitted with a Holset HY35 turbocharger which helped feed 22 pounds of boost and 55#/hr injectors. The system is controlled by a megasquirt stand-alone computer. Curb weight reduced from 3158 to 2820 pounds. The massive front mound inter cooler allowed the pony to scream in the 1/4 mile in only 12.2 seconds with it uplifted 296 rear wheel HP 2.3 liter engine. This vehicle is a sleeper due to it lack of racecar appearance. The black primer paint and quiet idle will completely amaze the ricer or muscle car owner who dares to challenge it. Not bad for a car that still gets 26 mpg on the highway.
by JDino January 10, 2009