Where does one with a 1968 1/2 GT/California Special stand in today's world of Mustang enthusiasm?

As I look at the current issues of Mustang Monthly, and Mustangs and Fords, it seems that this era of "RestoMod" has dominated the pages of these magazines. It seems that if you don't own a modified, high HP pony with Eleanor (or "Foose") looks, that you're out of the loop on the street.

They want you to think that even having a Shelby isn't enough, and it needs some suspension mods, or a blower, or some new 17-20" wheels.

Just what is all this hype--and how does this affect the perceptions of the original owner, and the stock, (un)restored Mustangs?

Well--this must have been like how Hot Rods, made from '32 Fords made people in the 1950's cringe. It's not that mods and hot rodding is "bad", or "wrong".....it's just that the hype, and the perception of that this is the direction is not reality.

The California Special really IS a special Mustang (and I'm including HCS, too). It's primarily an appearance package, but then again, the automotive market has always been about 80% marketing and 20% Detroit iron. We, as a group have stood our ground, and through this website, formed a community (or sorts) of Mustangers. Look at how folks at the Grass Valley show thought that group was "some sort of club". We are organized, and we work together to solve problems, but more importantly, we support each other's enthusuasm.

I would go so far as to say as a marque of Mustang, we as more aligned (no pun) than most clubs. Some of us are "lone wolves", and some of us are part of a loose-knit regional group of friends that get together. It's important to know that we, as a group are quite strong, and have an impressive background when we show up at shows, etc. Other Mustang marques aren't quite as solid as the GT/CS folks. Yes, the Boss and Shelby groups are strong, but have you seen any other Mustang registry/group of enthusiasts as well centered on a common goal--and have as much fun--as we do?

As a side note, I would like to see us--as a group for a type of consortium in our restorations, armed with the best information possible to "make a statement" at any car show anywhere in the country.

The point I wish to make is to ignore the hype of what the magazines are saying. Advertisers, and editors need something to stir sales--and it can slant the tone of the publication. Restored, or daily driver GT/CS Mustangs don't need to fall into any kind of conformity of higher HP, or fender flares, or resto-mod parts. "IF" you wish to go that route--great!, but it's to each their own. Besides, I feel that a complete Little Red, or Green Hornet would pale an Eleanor clone any day. The folks with that six-cylinder CS, out on a Sunday drive to a local drive in is as much fun, and gets a lot of attention. You're driving a part of history--and it's a part of the (Southern) California car culture of the 1960's. You have a strong heritage, that needs no mods to justify today.

I'm keeping this marque of Mustang in perspective as I'm doing the book. We need to remember what this car is all about, and not be (too) influenced by what the media, auctions, or print media tells us. it will be interesting when the '07 Owners encounter a '68 version on the street. I predict a sense of awe and humility will occur at that moment towards the senior CS.

Paul M. Newitt

My car gets alot of respect from owners of the newer and brand new Mustangs. A guy just the other day tried to trade me straight across for his 3 year old Mustang. It was an awesome car but I still like my old girl best. I don`t care very much for any new cars, even the Mustang. I always feel that they will never, ever make them again like they used too.

Paul, I'm glad that you addressed this. Oddly enough, I've been thinking about this issue on and off over the past few months, but not in relation to my GT/CS, but my Barracuda. I was seriously considering whether or not to sell my other car--a 68 Barracuda convertible as a down payment towards a big block investment. I sort of felt that I was missing the boat on the current trend towards higher return on investment on a bigger muscle car. I know my story has nothing to do with my GT/CS, but the bottom line is that just like my antique collecting, you collect what you love instead of what you think the latest hot trend is--I know people who have collected whole rooms full of of now worthless beanie babies. Sometimes you end up getting burned when the market turns and you then you have something that you didn't even want. If a 390 or 428 GT/CS turns up cheap then good for me, but I'm happy as a clam with my non-restomod 289 GT/CS Mustang and 318 non-restomod Barracuda.....Robb

Interesting thoughts. I experienced this first hand a few weeks ago at a show.
It was a Mustang, Viper, Vette only show and participant judged.

They broke down the classes by years and then you also had to vote for best Mustang.

The one that won Best Mustang was a 67 restomod with the trunk filled with stereo equipment, amps, subwoofers, etc. The interior was also from later Mustangs. 80's, 90's etc.
The engine was fully modded out.
And it had fender flares and ground effects all the way around
The car was nice but didn't look like a professional job but well done.

I talked to the guy and he said the Grille and Headlight buckets were about the only original parts on the exterior.

The car was nice, don't get me wrong but I was floored by the selection. There were 2 nice Shelby's there and a 26,000 original mile, original interior Sprint coupe. And a 390 GTA Fastback that was also very nice.

I respect that the guy won but was shocked that is got that many votes for Best Mustang.

I think cars like ours and other special Mustangs deserve to be left as close to original or able to be returned to original.

For a rusted out car with no hopes of restoration I have no problem with the resto mod craze.

The job of the magazines are to sell copies and if that's selling them now then that's what they will cover. Eventually it will come back or they will spur a new Mustang mag specializing on RestoMods.

Mustang isn't the #1 searched word on eBay for nothing!

And I agree with the comments on our "club". Ok I'm done :cool:

Rich

Just looking at the popular TV shows seems to pretty well explain what's happening. Pimp my ride (when did being a pimp become a good thing?), Overhaulin', Monster Garage, etc. That's what the kids and others are watching.

So Paul, I guess it's safe to say that you don't want you and your GT/CS to end up on Overhaulin'!!!!

Hi, I must say I agree with the care of the old school mustangs.. Here in Mexico only a few people love the original look, as it was, mostly all the times here reach to the Hp and never to the incredible look of the original car, or the nice engineering of the 60's.. I love my car with the technology of its time, I also have a new car, That I do like though but never as my mustang, 'cause it's history or whatever you want to call it. I had show with my club the father's day, and the car that got all the congratulations of the ppl it was incredibly a 67 mustang Hardtop with 22'' wheels and 347 stroker and we had 2 shelby's and 1 Boss 302 second owner with original interior and painting :undecided incredible don't you think?. And the magazines we got in here "Curvas Mustang" and "RPM Mustang" are just a lot of craaaap!, with restomod cars or HT that was made a convertible or the new interior, or the not original painting color... I'm not saying this is not nice, but It is what most of the people like.. wrong or not, not me to decide, but I say that you have to choose your car the way you like it but never think that just because you have an old school car does need any aftermarket things, we got a lot of items to improve, like the pertronix, headers, bla bla.
Anyways I always recommend that everyone must learn about his/her and never get lost the with whims of the merchandice

Paul, I am new at this, but I will tell you one thing , and that is tha t my first car was a California Special. And just because it is a CJ and it was the first CJ produced at the San Jose plant, dosen't mean nothing. I love California Specials and if someone else likes " modifiedes" and that stuff its up to them, but I like origional, and thats the way my CS will stay! John

...Very nice post here Paul. We owe alot to you & Jon for the GT/CS attributes you describe. Not to mention the incredible resource and fellowship you facilitate! Thank you!!

As an owner (past & present) of flared fendered, fire breathing, psyco-painted to the immaculate stock GT/CSs, I've been fortunate to enjoy all sides. My bottom line is that we'll all get along fine as individuals who love our cars however their manifest... I am reminded EVERY time I go out that the GT/CS in any form commands respect and dignity and I don't worry about its future as long as we're supportive to all owners.

GOD bless the "purists" - but when extreme, they sometimes are too nitpicky and annoying. The "restmodders" have alot of fun, but they can show too much disrespect when chopping up a great car... 'Same thing happens in classic aviation where the purists complain when a WWII fighter is modified for air racing. Yet thousands of people see the races w/some going to the jungles to retrieve & restore planes that would've otherwise rotted away. The warbird population is much larger now because of this exposure. I think we are too, but we shouldn't create a "wedge"...

I don't subscribe to any car mags & don't belong to any clubs. I love and enjoy the GT/CS for my own reasons. I'm not a conformnist and and don't want the pressure of making anyone mad by pretending to be one. My cars are Gods cars... I pay for the privilage owning and sharing them with ultimate hopes (like so many '32 Fords) I'll be a good enough steward that they'll be around long after I'm gone. Any other belief would only reduce my appeurture.

I love California Specials and if someone else likes " modifiedes" and that stuff its up to them, but I like origional, and thats the way my CS will stay! John

Count me in the same boat as John.

Modified cars will get more attention at cars shows by non car people because bling attracts attention to the non informed.

I have to admit, even with all the show's I attend here in the Columbus, Ohio and surrounding areas, there are a lot of restomods popping up everywhere. But, every show it's my GT/CS that seems to draw the crowd regardless. I have people all the time walk up to me and say man we've seen pictures in magazines but, this is the first real GT/CS we've ever seen. I've had car show organizers even comeup and thank me for bringing the car out to their show. Trophies, plaques and what ever else, I don't need those. The fact that I have possibly one of the rarest cars in the world is enough for me. The fact that it just happens to be a big block is an added plus. I have to admit, I actually enjoy my time here on our website sometimes more than I do an outing with my local Mustang Club. A big thanks to Jon and Paul for their hard work.

Don :wink:

I am all for originality and heck if your happy with your ride then don't change it.
but if your hankering to improve certain aspects like Drive Train , wheels etc without altering dramatically the appearance of the original theme.

Then go for it , I can almost guarantee that if Joe's Supercharged CS was up for grabs most of us on this site would grab it with open arms if we could afford it.

also after a fun Limited driving weekend in my resto BB , i can tell you i would not swap it back to a J code unless the J code was equipped with a compressor!!

For me its style first (Original metal and interior) then performance of the ride and if it can be improved then its highly likely it will be.

I agree with Paul on this site and the solidarity it has created in a sometimes strange Mustangworld.

Pity i live in the wrong country to enjoy it more!!

As I have said before - I get more people coming over to see my CS than the Shelbys surrounding it. In the midwest most have not seen a CS, and they are very interested.
BTW, is it true that some Bosses were just appearance packages too? If so, then the CS should be as desirable - 428CJs, 390s, 302s, 289s and sixes were all available. Possibly we just have so few in number CS's that the marketing and clubs have not been the same as larger number of Bosses and Shelbys? Casey

As I have said before - I get more people coming over to see my CS than the Shelbys surrounding it. In the midwest most have not seen a CS, and they are very interested.
BTW, is it true that some Bosses were just appearance packages too? If so, then the CS should be as desirable - 428CJs, 390s, 302s, 289s and sixes were all available. Possibly we just have so few in number CS's that the marketing and clubs have not been the same as larger number of Bosses and Shelbys? Casey


The Bosses were more than appearance packages - they had unique high performance engines which only came in those Mustang models: Boss 302 ('69, '70), Boss 429 ('69, '70), and later Boss 351 (only in '71) (although these powerplants may have been found in a rare Torino or Cougar model also) ...

just to clarify ....every Boss had a high performance engine?

also...I do believe it is true that Mach's could be just an appearance package - is that correct?

Casey

just to clarify ....every Boss had a high performance engine?

also...I do believe it is true that Mach's could be just an appearance package - is that correct?

Casey

On the Boss question: Yes, all Bosses had a factory high performance engine in those Mustang models.

On the Mach 1 question: Yes, and no - yes it was primarily an appearance package, but only with the higher performing factory engines ... in '69 it had 351W (2v or 4v), 390, or 428CJ, in '70 it had 351W (2v), 351C (2v or 4v), or 428CJ. The '71 - '73 models also had 351C variants, and a 429CJ and SCJ option.

As you can see, no 302's (in '69 and '70), and no 6 cylinder engines were offered in a Mach 1 (at least not until the Mustang II came along).

... here's a cool link to the Mach's history:

http://www.mustangandfords.com/thehistoryof/16382/

I enjoy the unrestored originals the best, especially when accompanied with an enthusiastic owner, or, a keeper a custodian of the car, who can tell about it's history, with stories!!

Those are the coolest! The Calif. Specials are so old now, most of them are on 3rd and 4th tier owners, at least- so the stories are harder come by.

To me that makes them much more desireable than any equivalent "new" or near new car.

.03

Jim B.

Thanks for all the supportive comments...

As I believe that anyone can do what they want with their GT/CS, there is something to be said about originality. Original-looking CS cars get more attention.

For example, I saw a mint-looking Nash Metro ('58?) the other day, and mixed in the jellybean cars of today, it really stuck out. I bit my tonque from saying out loud "how cute", but it stood on it's own--and it was rolling history that spoke for itself!!

I've attached a color photo of the dealer night (Feb 15, 1968)--with a very early CS on the turntable. it's a low-rez photo, but look at how impressive it is in it's stock form. Pretty impressive. Now think if that was on today's roads...

I like the idea of internal mods--engine, etc..."what you can't see", and of course, I like the vintage Shelby stuff, too.

Paul.

While I am an owner of the new 2007 GT/CS, I love the older Mustangs. The original CS is a one of a kind car , and those fortunate enough to own one, I am extrememly envious!! I also agree with the clean lines and original bodywork (I have never been one to add "bling bling" to my cars). While the modifides are great to look at, they are not the original intent of the car, I will take a restored original Mustang anyday over the modified.

Great lunch hour reading - I like to think that the GT/CS was one of the nicest styled cars to ever come from an American factory. Just think how much better it will look after being chopped, channeled, sectioned, louvered and painted metal flake gold ....................... just kidding!!!!!!!!

...Very nice post here Paul. We owe alot to you & Jon for the GT/CS attributes you describe. Not to mention the incredible resource and fellowship you facilitate! Thank you!!

As an owner (past & present) of flared fendered, fire breathing, psyco-painted to the immaculate stock GT/CSs, I've been fortunate to enjoy all sides. My bottom line is that we'll all get along fine as individuals who love our cars however their manifest... I am reminded EVERY time I go out that the GT/CS in any form commands respect and dignity and I don't worry about its future as long as we're supportive to all owners.

GOD bless the "purists" - but when extreme, they sometimes are too nitpicky and annoying. The "restmodders" have alot of fun, but they can show too much disrespect when chopping up a great car... 'Same thing happens in classic aviation where the purists complain when a WWII fighter is modified for air racing. Yet thousands of people see the races w/some going to the jungles to retrieve & restore planes that would've otherwise rotted away. The warbird population is much larger now because of this exposure. I think we are too, but we shouldn't create a "wedge"...

I don't subscribe to any car mags & don't belong to any clubs. I love and enjoy the GT/CS for my own reasons. I'm not a conformnist and and don't want the pressure of making anyone mad by pretending to be one. My cars are Gods cars... I pay for the privilage owning and sharing them with ultimate hopes (like so many '32 Fords) I'll be a good enough steward that they'll be around long after I'm gone. Any other belief would only reduce my appeurture.

Great Job Tim - Don't think that I can top what you say.. Espically about the air racing, Yeah, they take great planes like the P51 and modify the engine and canopy and a paint job for the purpose of racing them.. It's almost like NASCAR Where Ford Fusions and Monte Carlos get modified.. I like some new cars but it's only a small amount of them.. Well, it's only my two cents..
:wink:
Marie

Hi Paul,

Love your speech on our beloved GT/CS. There's one thing that never occured to me and I don't know if this was an option or if it was a standard part of the GT/CS package. Do all of the GT/CS's have a "map light" feature on it. I never seen any that I recall on other 68's. Mine has that map light with a wood grain peice running down the center (ceiling part) of the car. Just curious and wondering.

Stacey

I enjoy the unrestored originals the best, especially when accompanied with an enthusiastic owner, or, a keeper a custodian of the car, who can tell about it's history, with stories!!

Those are the coolest! The Calif. Specials are so old now, most of them are on 3rd and 4th tier owners, at least- so the stories are harder come by.

To me that makes them much more desireable than any equivalent "new" or near new car.

.03

Jim B.

I have a funny one to tell ya. This was back in 1972 when my Mom and I were heading off to town. As usual, she's always one who love to shop. As we were heading off to town. I watched the speedometer go from 50,..then,..60,...70,..75, SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECH!!! Locking up the breaks. Whoa, "What the h___ are you trying to do, send me through the wind shield!?? My Mom looked back and realized that the object lying on the trunk was something she didn't want to lose. The spoiler kept it from falling off. I asked why were you going so fast!? Mom replied, "I didn't realize what it was and I was trying to get it to fly off, the gloves went but the purse stayed."

Hope you enjoy the little story,...
Stacey

Hi Paul,

Love your speech on our beloved GT/CS. There's one thing that never occured to me and I don't know if this was an option or if it was a standard part of the GT/CS package. Do all of the GT/CS's have a "map light" feature on it. I never seen any that I recall on other 68's. Mine has that map light with a wood grain peice running down the center (ceiling part) of the car. Just curious and wondering.

Stacey


Stacey,

The overhead console was part of the Interior Decor Group and was not available as a standalone option, as the floor console was. You should have a wood grain dash and wood rain on your door panels as well. The Interior Decor Group was available on any Mustang.

BTW - my wife spells her name with "E" in it also.

I have a funny one to tell ya. This was back in 1972 when my Mom and I were heading off to town. As usual, she's always one who love to shop. As we were heading off to town. I watched the speedometer go from 50,..then,..60,...70,..75, SCREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEECH!!! Locking up the breaks. Whoa, "What the h___ are you trying to do, send me through the wind shield!?? My Mom looked back and realized that the object lying on the trunk was something she didn't want to lose. The spoiler kept it from falling off. I asked why were you going so fast!? Mom replied, "I didn't realize what it was and I was trying to get it to fly off, the gloves went but the purse stayed."

Hope you enjoy the little story,...
Stacey

That is truly a (California) "Special" story. No one could have made that up!

Jim B.

If I remember correctly that ducktail spoiler creates some interesting snow patterns on the rear window, too.

Stacey,

The overhead console was part of the Interior Decor Group and was not available as a standalone option, as the floor console was. You should have a wood grain dash and wood rain on your door panels as well. The Interior Decor Group was available on any Mustang.

BTW - my wife spells her name with "E" in it also.

I got curious about the woodgrain on the door panels, I thought at first, I didn't have those on there. After you mentioned it, I had to go and look, sure enough, You're right!
Has your wife ever had trouble with people spelling her name with an "ie" on the end instead of a "y"? I have, and those who did knew it bugged me kept on doing it. aarrrgh! :frust: LOL

That is truly a (California) "Special" story. No one could have made that up!

Jim B.

Another CS story, when I graduated from High School and went to college up north, next to the Canadian border. There were kids who always liked to ride on the trunk of my car. So when the got alittle smart with me, I'd find a speed bump, gun it, and fling em off the car trunk and watch them tumble. The funny part, they'd come back for more. Talk about glutton for punishment. :grin:

If I remember correctly that ducktail spoiler creates some interesting snow patterns on the rear window, too.

When I was a kid and not old enough to drive, I used to watch those patterns and I would be messmerized by it. It was neat.

When it gets really cold, you can see the inner trunk bracing shape on the top of the trunklid, too. You'll see a big "X" outlined in frost.

Once, I broke a transmission rear seal on a geology field trip, and from driving across Nevada, I got this thin film/dirt grime all across the back end--from the lower air pressure there from the spoiler. You'll notice a lot of dirt collects back there from long drives.

What's a truly a unique GT/CS experience is being able to see the spoiler in the rear view mirror--all the time!

Paul.

My GT/CS was the Mustang I wanted back in "68" and it will remain the same in "2008". In other words, I like the resto-modes, but my CS is going to stay just the way it was when I bought it. John

By the way...

I got photos of John's CS, and they are awesome! One photo shows a yellow chalk mark on the driver's side inner fender that has a cryptic "CoBra" written there (for the engine guys on the line to drop in a 428 CJ).

Great info--and photos that will go into the book!

Thanks John! Awesome stuff!

Paul Newitt

By the way...

I got photos of John's CS, and they are awesome! One photo shows a yellow chalk mark on the driver's side inner fender that has a cryptic "CoBra" written there (for the engine guys on the line to drop in a 428 CJ).

Great info--and photos that will go into the book!

Thanks John! Awesome stuff!

Paul Newitt
Your welcome Paul. There have been alot of mustang guys come around to look at my CS since it was talked about on the 428 cobrajet website. Most of them cannot believe that the first CJ produced at the San Jose plant was a CS. By the way if I told you that the "Cobra" (RDX) was written on the drivers side, I ment the passenger side. Thanks John

I dusted this thread off to bring you the following:

If you got the May 2007 issue of Mustang Monthly, you'll see an interesting quote about "Clones" and "Restomods" on page 28.

The quote is by Drew Alcazar, president of Russo & Steele auction house. As follows, regarding restomods:

"That segment is very depressed. Clones and restomods are like Bic Lighters--you use them and throw them away. But if you have an original musclecar wth the right matching numbers, documentation, a thorough history, and no stories, the market is still strong."

Interesting. It would appear that the clone & modified cars have been a little too common in the auction circuit, and that buyers are more interested in a Mustang pedigree with papers, than fancy paint, bodywork and engines.

I still say "do what makes you happy with your GT/CS", but if you want to sell it in an auction, you might consider where the true value is. As time moves along, the originality is what people will want to see, buy and appreciate.

Curious. Your thoughts? (and I bet "Mustangs Plus" isn't too happy with seeing that quote in MM).

Paul N.

I think that restomods have never been easy to get your money out of. But I also believe that there is a market for very nicely done restomods with quality workmanship. Look at the track record of Ted and Tom Diller (aka the Tomato Farmers) at Barrett Jackson. This year they auctioned two cars together, a Boss 302 and a Boss 429. They brought a whopping $530K plus fees. So someone paid $583K for those cars.

Drew Alcazar may have some ulterior motive in depressing the restomod market, since Barrett Jackson seems to get many more of these types of cars.

Hey Paul,
I read the same Mustang Monthly article.

(IMO) In my almost 40 years of owning my CS, every few years they come up with something cool to modify our cars with. But the modification coolness
seems to always fade away when some new high $$ mod is put on the market.
For me originality is what makes my California Special cool. I agree with the (MM) article.

John

By the way...

I got photos of John's CS, and they are awesome! One photo shows a yellow chalk mark on the driver's side inner fender that has a cryptic "CoBra" written there (for the engine guys on the line to drop in a 428 CJ).

Great info--and photos that will go into the book!



Paul just make sure you note that not all (in fact few) received that, or we will have every one copying it on there car ;)

Always an issue with details..... just look at all the people that copy stuff from magazines where they typically do not list when or where the car was built.

Just a comment :) as I am deducting points at shows on more and more cars as owners feel the need to put all this stuff on their cars - right or wrong

Hey Paul,
I read the same Mustang Monthly article.

(IMO) In my almost 40 years of owning my CS, every few years they come up with something cool to modify our cars with. But the modification coolness
seems to always fade away when some new high $$ mod is put on the market.
For me originality is what makes my California Special cool. I agree with the (MM) article.

John

John, if I were a 40yr owner of a 428CJ CS that has been as well kept as yours - you can bet I wouldn't restomod it! And being privileged to see Mike's 390GT start up for the first time last night affirmed admiration and respect for those of you who go to extremes for authenticity. At the same time; I don't see where "clones and restomods" should be compared to "Bic lighters".

I would not have purchased my black GT/CS had it not been modified with a 302/ 4-spd instead of it's (Marti spec) 289 2v C4. The difference is w/ full disclosure from the seller and knowing what you are getting B4UBuy...

Our threads bounce all over the place lately re: total concours vs beefing up 390s and making 11-sec CSs to keep up w/ new ones etc... So go the different opininions to match desires of we differing owners. I remain middle of the road as usual - but YES, I agree the better value lies in originality. If you're selling one that is not - disclose fully, so a potential buyer can decide what they need to do to make it original if desired...

Tim,

In know way do I agree with any Mustang being a throw away "Bic Lighter",
restomode or original. That part of the MM article I do not agree with.

I only own one Mustang and want it as original as possible,
but thats just me.:smile:

John

Drew Alcazar may have some ulterior motive in depressing the restomod market, since Barrett Jackson seems to get many more of these types of cars.

That very thought more than just crossed my mind when I read it. I remember when Drew restored high-dollar Shelbys (like a GT-500KR conv.), and one was on display at a SAAC convention in Portland many years ago. A lot of his work was shown in color in Mustang Monthly, and people would base their restorations on his work. I personally felt that he over-restored his cars, to set a higher standard. The comment was a little shocking to see in print, (IMO) but, you have to consider the source...

My impression is that the whole auction business "taints" the enthusiasm for concours restorations by enthusiasts, in how the aspect of money is more important than the history and heritage and the "fun" of ownership. Some restore for personal satisfaction, others just to sell a car (but that is another story for another time).

There is a sad irony to original cars that come up on the block. Say, the original owner pampered a Mustang lovingly for 40 years, and it comes up on stage--and the underlying comment/question arises: "what'll you give for 40 years of sincere ownership" "what $$ value is in that"? ...and then; in a flash, it's gone, like a head of beef.

It's truly a question of definations of value. Tim champions the average guy that likes to drive and enjoy their Mustang; and perhaps "concours competition" is a challenge to that perception and type of appreciation. "Value" of ownership can range from the act of driving; the trophys on the mantle; timeslips from the drag strip, or what it will get at auction. The point is that there is satisfaction in ownership, and that no one choice should stand over any other.

If people like driving their Bic Lighter, and thrashing it out on an autocross track, or the drags; that is their choice. Not every Mustang should be measured by it's concours/ auction potential.

Paul N.

...Personally, I don't view concours restoration as a challenge per se - I could easily facilitate one if I wanted to. But what would I do with it when I was done? I enter the local shows with very clean cars, then with friends; drive them... Many CSs here operate that way, yet are maintained spotless for presentation whereas the "average guy" would drive to work, school, store, etc... not caring so much about dirty engine compartments, balding tires, door dings, & on & on...

...Personally, I don't view concours restoration as a challenge per se - I could easily facilitate one if I wanted to. But what would I do with it when I was done? I enter the local shows with very clean cars, then with friends; drive them... Many CSs here operate that way, yet are maintained spotless for presentation whereas the "average guy" would drive to work, school, store, etc... not caring so much about dirty engine compartments, balding tires, door dings, & on & on...

Since you have several GT/CSs, perhaps you could hand-pick one to take aside and go through for strickly concours competition. Mike (Something Special) will be driving his GT/CS like a new car from now on; so can you. You have the rare luxury of having the best of both GT/CS worlds--many "drivers", and one for show.

Maybe it's time to "take the concours plunge"? Mike and I (and anyone else) can offer help and advise to get you there.

Whatta ya say?

Paul N.

Well I would love to go back to original with the rust bucket I have. But its going to be hard to bring it back to life right now. Anybody know of a place that will dip the whole car for rust removal in the Midwest????

Hey Paul,
I read the same Mustang Monthly article.

(IMO) In my almost 40 years of owning my CS, every few years they come up with something cool to modify our cars with. But the modification coolness
seems to always fade away when some new high $$ mod is put on the market.
For me originality is what makes my California Special cool. I agree with the (MM) article.

John


I second that, owning an original "unmodified" CS has a special place in my heart. My CS has been in my family for almost 40 years and I'm planning on getting mine out next summer 2008 and enter it in parades and car shows for fun and to celebrate 40 years of the existence of our CS's. It's been in it's original state all those years and plan on keeping it that way.

Stacey

Well I would love to go back to original with the rust bucket I have. But its going to be hard to bring it back to life right now. Anybody know of a place that will dip the whole car for rust removal in the Midwest????

Wish I knew, at best at this point is sand blast off the rust and coat it with a rust resistant paint. I'm sure there's other mustangers know abit more than I do when it comes to rust. I live in Minnesota, I know. I keep my CS in the garage. The only time, I dare take it out is when it's nice and dry or the highways are well cleaned off by the rain to get rid of all the salt.

Stacey

Since you have several GT/CSs, perhaps you could hand-pick one to take aside and go through for strickly concours competition. Mike (Something Special) will be driving his GT/CS like a new car from now on; so can you. You have the rare luxury of having the best of both GT/CS worlds--many "drivers", and one for show.

Maybe it's time to "take the concours plunge"? Mike and I (and anyone else) can offer help and advise to get you there.

Whatta ya say?

Paul N.

Well, the white one's already perty darn close (98% Marti save for the dual exhaust) and I don't drive it very much. The 390 would be next w/ alot of detailing, removal of electric fuel pump, correct wheels, paint job and correct intake w/ smog system. (a certain Sheriffs Deputy around here pulled me over and confiscated my (correct) air cleaner - I thought they were supposed to enforce compliance... Not this guy! ;-) Weird!!

So we'll see perhaps. Being in touch with all of you has more than kindled interest and awareness needless to say!...

Since your green 390 car is the rarest, I think it would be the best candidate for some form of concours. Besides you have the original spare in that one. Maybe "someone" up there could help you out with any of those elusive 390 parts. I hear that the cops in them there hills horde stuff like fog lights, holleys and FE parts 'n stuff..

By the same token, one of your other specials should be slated for vintage mods; like the ten spokes, and other Shelby goodies, perhaps. That would be neat. I can see you having one of each, in terms of stock to modified. It's like having three of the old AMT model car kits--as it said on the box: "build it stock, drag or custom". Besides, one of them needs to be in the next Sacto Autorama next year.

Let's do it.

Paul.

...The next Sacto Autorama should definitely be a Mike "somethingspecial" thing far as our area is concerned. He's certainly paid the price. I'll be happier to fly the "camera ship" on his way there ;-)

I could use some of that GT/CS "archive footage" for the book's DVD.

I have a small collection of other owner's footage--including the last BBQ, but having video of several CSs on the road, roaming through the foothills would be great to have, too.

Paul N.

I could use some of that GT/CS "archive footage" for the book's DVD.

I have a small collection of other owner's footage--including the last BBQ, but having video of several CSs on the road, roaming through the foothills would be great to have, too.

Paul N.

...My next planned outing probably won't be until June 30th and another local car show. by then I should have another 390 4-spd delivered. No video of substance from me so far, but we could plan some depending on Mike's car being ready... Tons of still photos tho.

Well, there must be some good shots on video. Perhaps, with a friend of mine who has a big video editing facility, we could piece together people's vid clips into some sort of "60's rock video" for the DVD that looks like an old home movie...

I'd think that anything on tape of five or more CSs would be of great interest.

Thanks,

Paul.

p.s. if anyone else out there has videos of their GT/CS on the road, please send it to me (about 20 min. or less).

(mail to: Paul M. Newitt, GT/CS Registry, P.O. Box 2245, Davis, CA 95617)

Well, there must be some good shots on video. Perhaps, with a friend of mine who has a big video editing facility, we could piece together people's vid clips into some sort of "60's rock video" for the DVD that looks like an old home movie...

I'd think that anything on tape of five or more CSs would be of great interest.

Thanks,

Paul.

p.s. if anyone else out there has videos of their GT/CS on the road, please send it to me (about 20 min. or less).

(mail to: Paul M. Newitt, GT/CS Registry, P.O. Box 2245, Davis, CA 95617)

...There were eleven at the recent Fab Fords Show. With the concentration of beautiful CSs in SoCal, maybe Joe, Lisa, DD or John can spearhead a Sunday picnic/ drive-by say; on a local airport ramp or someplace away from traffic. People gawking and/ or dividing the group at stoplights etc... can cause stress & confusion at times on the freeway...

You got that right. Just keeping five of us together in L.A. / Bev. Hills traffic was a feat...but we managed (Donna finally knew where da heck Wilshire Blvd. was. DUH!! )

There is also using an empty parking lot., or seldom used country road, etc.

And by the use of editing, it can still work.

Paul.

Just curious--is there anything about the GT/CS on YouTube?

[QUOTE=PNewitt;40550

Just curious--is there anything about the GT/CS on YouTube?[/QUOTE]

...Some home movies, (455hp) 07 burnouts and a few of the commercials. Nothing formal or historic that I've seen...