1972 Mustang Hardtop classic or upgrade?

[Shields]

I recently purchased a 72 Hardtop that's in good condition except the majority of it is cosmetic issues. Still have to go through it and find every little bump/issue that's presented. But my biggest concern is should I restore it to its time period or keep the body the same and interior in the similar age group and just upgrade the parts. Like newer breaks, suspension, possible engine (302). I am just looking for opinions very new to the classic car world and looking for oppnions. Thank you.


Only other pic I have right now...

 

[mach1000]

I would make it your own. Paint, interior engine, etc make it how you want it to be and would make you want to be in it and be seen in it.

Unless you have a super rare mustang that is worth restoring to showroom factory condition, make it your own and have fun!

Where in NY are you?

 

[Shields]

I would make it your own. Paint, interior engine, etc make it how you want it to be and would make you want to be in it and be seen in it.

Unless you have a super rare mustang that is worth restoring to showroom factory condition, make it your own and have fun!

Where in NY are you?

It's definitely going to have my own personal touch to it. Just curious what others have done. And Syracuse area.

 

[vozaday]

There are some pretty cool build threads here, take a browse through a few. It may give you some ideas as there are a lot of different ways to approach a build and most are dependent on your build budget.

 

[luxstang]

You're talking about two different approaches basically.

Which one you choose is totally up to you. I like to do it my way but with respect to what the car needs.

Keeping it stick is sometimes also cool but unless it's a car with a rare combo there is no need to keep it stock.

Mine is a mix of stock enough to still be a vintage car, modern enough to make it look more up to date and reliable.

 

[jbojo]

I agree with the others, you will be driving it so restore it in the way that will make you happy with it. Good luck on your restore.

 

[BeerDontCount]

I agree with the others in that you should make it the way you want, and have fun with the process. My strategy is to address safety issues first, then reliability concerns, with performance and cosmetics issues last, and a goal of minimizing the down time. Whatever you do, take some time to figure out what you really want to end up with, as I have found my tastes have evolved as I have explored different options. There are tons of great ideas and opinions on every aspect you can research on this site, and lots of very knowledgable folks willing to help. Good luck, and keep us posted!

Scott

 

[Shields]

Thank you everyone for your input. Will looking further on the forums to see what others did and will get everything organized before any work on it.

 

[73pony]

I vote for making it how you want to enjoy it. I have a 73 Grande Coupe. Some of the mods include a two tone black and Ginger interior. T5 conversion. Pertronix III ignition. 17" wheels. Battery relocation to trunk , 4 bbl conversion, headers, among others. I think someone above mentioned this. I addressed safety issues first then mods. Did the mods if they addressed the safety issues at the time. Best thing to do is write down on paper what you want to do and make a plan. This will help avoid wasting money fixing something then replacing it later. My personal goal was to have a car that is fun to drive and looks great (as do all 71-73 Mustangs).