The Plan
 

After abandoning my search for vintage tin, I've decided to buy a 5.0 Mustang. Ideally, I'm looking for a 1987-89 LX hatch, but would also consider GTs and cars up to 1995. I want something with an easily repairable mechanical problem that I can pick up for about $500. My eventual goal is to get it into the 9s. A friend told me about an '87 LX with a 'banger that would fit into my price range (asking $600), but I'm not too keen on that idea. I'd probably spend twice the price of that car, if I'm lucky, getting the V-8 in it. How close did I come? And, while I'm at it, since I intend to install a roll control, what was the first year for front antilock brales on the 'Stang?

Re: The Plan
 

I fixable but broke 5.0 that needs work will usually run you 1500.00.

Since your goal is 9's everything stock will have to be replaced anyways so I would just by a 87-93 4 banger for 500-1000 bux and start from there.

Re: The Plan
 

Another option might be to check with various insurance agencies for a theft recovery that has been totaled out. You might be able to buy the title and have a psuedo 'body in white' worth turning into a race car.

For what its worth, I'm headed into the high 9's and here's a basic list of what's still stock on my car:

All body panels except hood
Factory glass except sun roof (lexan)
Dash, interior panels & headliner
Steering column
Factory carpet forward of rear seats
Steering knuckles (modified for Aerospace brakes)

Re: The Plan
 

My big issue with buying the 'banger is that I want something I can drive fast for a while and make faster as time goes on, rather than have to get rid of a boat anchor imediately. I've thought about going the theft recovery/insurance sale/etc route, but being that I live in California and the car will be street-driven, that's a no-go. As for price, just takes patience--I found an '88 GT in L.A. for $500, but was too late...damn.

Also, does anyone have any opinions on supercharging vs. turbocharging?

Re: The Plan
 

Turbo is always better but supercharger is cheaper.

Turbos are way easier on parts and much more efficient not to mention it is much easier to change your boost level. With a super charger you have to change out pullies to change you boost level with a turbo you just turn a knob.

I know a couple of guys with 1000HP turbo charged stangs that are routinely driven on the street. High boost and race gas on the track. Low boost and pump gas on the street.

Re: The Plan
 

Aaahhh, the old adage rears it's head again. "Ford 4 banger + performance = RACER WALSH" www.racerwalsh.com ;)