Page 38 - Experience Magazine Fall 2023

AN ORIGINAL LIGHTWEIGHT

THIS 135-CODE 1968 FORD MUSTANG 428 CJR
WAS AN NHRA KNOCKOUT

In 1968, Ford undertook the construction of a Among the 50 cars produced, several found their
series of 50 “135” fastback Mustangs with a specific way into the possession of race teams. Notably,
objective: to qualify for NHRA stock classes. two specific vehicles – with identification numbers
Meticulously assigned consecutive VIN codes starting 135050 and 135054 – were included in a group
with 8F02R135007 and ending with 8F02R135056, of six cars that played a significant role in
these vehicles incorporated the relatively new 428ci introducing the world to the 428 Cobra Jet at the
engine equipped with a mix of Police Interceptor 1968 NHRA Winternationals.
parts and bespoke Ford performance gears to create According to a previous owner, this 1968
what has become known as the Cobra Jet.
Mustang had an impressive racing history at
To introduce this remarkable car, Ford produced Music City Speedway in the C-Stock category for
homologation models exclusively tailored for approximately 10 years. Around 1978, it underwent
racing purposes. All elegantly coated in Wimbledon a transformation into a Super Stock car under the
White over a sleek black interior, these models ownership of Jeff Velde, a renowned drag racer and
proudly showcased the powerful 428ci engine dealership owner. Subsequently, the vehicle received
hooked to a 4-speed transmission, manual drum a meticulous restoration to its original specifications
brakes and a 3.89:1 rear end (despite the door tags by Randy Delisio of Lyons, New York, while the
indicating a 3.25:1). engine underwent comprehensive enhancements by
Among the 50 units, 20 were designated as Cobra Automotive in Wallingford, Connecticut.
pure lightweights, as indicated by DSO 844661, Notably, this Mustang achieved recognition
intentionally devoid of sound insulation or seam and acclaim in various circles and emerged as a
sealer. It is crucial to emphasize that when their Hemmings Muscle Car of the Year finalist back in
racing intentions are mentioned, it is by no means 2013. The car’s significance is further reinforced by
an exaggeration. Ford faced a predicament as its inclusion in the 428 Cobra Jet Registry. It again
they lacked suitable exhaust manifolds for the garnered attention when featured in Hemmings in
428 Cobra Jet in the Mustang during that period. 2018, further solidifying its place as a remarkable
Consequently, they resorted to installing 390 vehicle with a noteworthy legacy.
manifolds solely to fulfill delivery requirements. These 1968 Mustangs, born from Ford’s pursuit
With a rear port mating surface as narrow as of racing excellence, continue to captivate with
one-sixteenth of an inch, these vehicles were not their power, history and enduring appeal. They
suitable for street use. However, it was expected serve as a testament to the innovation, passion
that virtually all owners of these 50 Mustangs and timeless allure of American muscle cars,
would eventually install headers, regardless. taking their rightful place in automotive lore.
In late December 1967, Ford manufactured the 1968 For a chance to make it yours and own a piece of
Lightweight Cobra Jet being offered with No Reserve Mustang history, register to bid today.
during the inaugural Barrett-Jackson New Orleans – Nicole Ellan James
Auction, September 28-30. Bearing the identification For up-to-date information on this vehicle,
number #135044, the car was initially sold by Russ visit Barrett-Jackson.com
Davis Ford of Covina, California.

38 BARRETT-JACKSON EXPERIENCE FALL 2023