A DECADE AGO

1969 FORD MUSTANG DAVE POLWART

It seems to be a fact of life in the V8 world — almost all cars built to as high a standard as Dave Polwart’s 1969 Ford Mustang started out as rusty wrecks. That was certainly the case with this sleek machine, which was painstakingly restored and modified by Ian Kenyon many moons ago. But don’t be fooled by the unbelievably straight body work, nor the mile-deep purple paint, because the intention was never to scoop trophies. With a 482ci stroker, Tremec TKO 600 five-speed manual, and RRS suspension and steering componentry, this machine was built to drive. That’s still his goal for the car, 10 years down the track, despite suffering several engine-related setbacks. However, there’s no denying that it looks as brilliant as ever. Thanks to the care of Ian Kenyon at Obsession Musclecars, the smooth panel work and paintwork look absolutely flawless, and the perfect pro-touring stance looks as good now as it did then. “Ian has put countless uncharged hours into the car, ironing out the bugs of the new build,” Dave explained. “There are few company owners in this industry that will do that.” Beneath the bonnet, an all-new all-alloy 427 has been stroked to 482ci by Dave Moyle at Pro Street Automotive, and topped with a seriously impressive eight-stack injection system — “My third attempt at an engine for this car!” Dave laughed, but it should be the last, thanks to Dave Moyle’s expertise. When we caught up with Dave at Repco Beach Hop 2017 earlier in the year, he mentioned that the engine was still being run in. We hope that the third time’s the charm, because this Mustang’s way too nice to keep locked up in a stable!