Need answers on an idea I have

[olddog]

When I first started looking like you, I found a fellow fairly close to me who had just finished building his 3rd FFR (he had it for sale). He some how got linked up with a company that delt with salvage yards and put packages together to build projects like this. He just listed what parts he wanted out of what cars and they shipped it to him. I don't know the name of the company, but wanted you to be aware that level service exists. It saves you the work of dissassembling a car and getting rid of what you don't need. I suspect it would cost a little more for the convenience.

Think about what rear end you would like to have. IRS or straight axle. I have not had the pleasure of a long ride in a IRS Cobra. My Cobra has a 9" under it. I wish I could tell you that I know this from experiance, but I cannot. I think the IRS would give a better ride, while still giving better handling. A 9" would be better for drag racing type abuse. There is a wide range of IRS to choose from. The Thunder Bird and Explorer have been used.

Also there is good aftermarket tubular front suspension parts for the Mustang that could be used instead of Mustang parts. I would think this would be quite a step up. A lot to consider.

Also if you are going to build your first engine on this project, stay clear of the FE engines. They are much more complicated and need a fair amount of upgrades. I think if I were starting with a blank sheet of paper, I would choose the 351W and stroke it. A carb is simpler and cheaper. Slowly the tuners are becoming younger guys with only EFI knowledge, but there are still plenty of people who know carbs.

Good Luck