Enthusiasts of the Ford Mustang often delve into the archives of automotive journalism, seeking out original reviews from the golden era of muscle cars. Scans of 1967-68 Mustang car magazine reviews offer a unique window into how these iconic vehicles were perceived when new, capturing the excitement and fervor they generated. Inspired by this historical perspective, meticulous model builders often strive to recreate every detail, mirroring the passion found within those vintage pages.
This project showcases a deep dive into recreating a 1968 Titus Mustang in miniature, reflecting the kind of scrutiny and admiration seen in period car magazine reviews. Progress is evident across several key areas, each echoing the modifications and details that would have been highlighted in publications of the day.
Roll Cage Fabrication
The intricate roll cage is taking shape, a crucial element for any Trans-Am racer like the Titus Mustang. Careful drilling and precise measurements ensure the tubes fit snugly within the model’s frame, mirroring the robust safety structures described in period race reports and potentially visible in magazine features covering motorsports events of 1967 and 1968. Tubes extend into the trunk area, where a resin fuel cell will be placed, a detail often noted in technical specifications and race car analyses within car magazine reviews.
Oil Pan Modification
Attention to detail extends to the engine’s underside. The oil pan, modified from a Hwy. 61 BOSS 302 unit, features a scratch-built sump, replicating the Aviaid pans seen in historical photos from the Trans-Am era. Car magazine reviews and race coverage from 1967-68 would often highlight such performance modifications, discussing the shift from early-season Cobra pans to later designs with exterior drainbacks. This model aims for accuracy, reflecting the evolving specifications that would have been meticulously documented in period publications.
Paint and Color Accuracy
The iconic hood blackout and meticulously painted headlamp buckets demonstrate the dedication to visual accuracy. Masking techniques were refined to achieve clean lines, mirroring the sharp factory finishes and race-livery details that would have been prominent in magazine photos and road test reviews. However, challenges arose with the yellow paint, prompting a re-evaluation of the shade’s veracity.
Research into period-correct colors suggests a possible substitution of the paler ’67 yellow shade with Special Yellow WT6066 for certain races. This nuanced understanding of color variations, potentially gleaned from in-depth articles or even color swatches featured in 1967-68 Mustang car magazine reviews, drives the pursuit of ultimate authenticity in this model build. Consultation with experts like Phil Jacobs further validates the chosen shade, reinforcing the commitment to historical accuracy.
Wheel Assembly
Finally, the wheels are coming together, combining MM magnesium centers with a dusting of Tamiya Pearlescent Clear to capture the period-correct look. New aluminum outer rings will complete the assembly. Period magazine reviews often featured detailed shots of wheel designs and materials, emphasizing the performance and aesthetic aspects of components like these. Replicating these wheels accurately is another step in bringing the 1968 Titus Mustang model to life.
This ongoing project embodies the spirit of automotive enthusiasm, fueled by the same passion for detail and historical accuracy that permeates scans of 1967-68 Mustang car magazine reviews. Each element, from the roll cage to the wheels, is carefully considered to recreate a miniature legend worthy of the Mustang’s storied past.
