Fox Body Kit Car: A Detailed Overview
The Fox body Mustang, produced from 1979 to 1993, has become a popular choice for kit car enthusiasts due to its affordable price, lightweight construction, and ample aftermarket support. Body kits, which consist of aftermarket panels that replace or modify the original bodywork, allow enthusiasts to transform their Fox body Mustangs into a wide range of vehicles, including replicas of classic sports cars and modern supercars.
Choosing a Body Kit
Selecting the right body kit for your Fox body Mustang is crucial, as it will significantly alter the appearance and performance of your vehicle. Here are some key considerations:
– Desired Model: Determine the specific vehicle you want to emulate with your kit car. Popular choices include the Ferrari Testarossa, Lamborghini Countach, and Saleen S7.
– Materials: Body kits are typically made from fiberglass, carbon fiber, or a combination of materials. Fiberglass is affordable and easy to work with, while carbon fiber is lightweight and durable but more expensive.
– Fit and Finish: Ensure that the kit you choose is specifically designed for your Fox body Mustang and has a high-quality fit and finish. Poorly fitting panels can lead to alignment issues and water leaks.
– Cost: Body kits can range in price from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the model, materials, and level of detail.
Installation
Installing a body kit requires careful preparation and expert craftsmanship. Here are the general steps involved:
– Remove the Original Body Panels: The original body panels, including the fenders, hood, and trunk lid, must be carefully removed to make way for the new kit.
– Fit the New Panels: The new body panels are then fitted onto the Mustang, using a combination of bolts, screws, and adhesive. Proper alignment is essential to ensure a seamless fit.
– Finish and Paint: Once the panels are fitted, they need to be sanded, primed, and painted to achieve the desired finish.
Additional Considerations
In addition to the body kit itself, several other modifications may be necessary to complete your Fox body kit car:
– Suspension and Brakes: Upgrading the suspension and brakes can improve handling and safety, especially when paired with wider tires and larger wheels.
– Engine and Drivetrain: Enhance the performance of your kit car with engine upgrades, such as turbochargers or superchargers, and a performance exhaust system.
– Interior: Customize the interior of your kit car with new seats, a custom dashboard, and upgraded sound system to match the exterior aesthetics.
Benefits of a Fox Body Kit Car
Building a Fox body kit car offers numerous benefits:
– Customization: Body kits allow you to create a truly unique and personalized vehicle that reflects your taste and style.
– Performance Enhancement: Upgrading the suspension, brakes, and engine can significantly improve the driving experience and performance of your Fox body Mustang.
– Affordability: Compared to purchasing an actual exotic sports car, a Fox body kit car is a more affordable option that allows you to achieve a similar level of style and performance.
– Community: The Fox body kit car community is vast and supportive, with numerous forums, clubs, and events where enthusiasts can share knowledge and experiences.
Examples of Fox Body Kit Cars
The following are some notable examples of Fox body kit cars:
– Prototyp 427: A replica of the legendary Shelby Cobra, the Prototyp 427 combines a Fox body Mustang chassis with a fiberglass Cobra body.
– Superformance GT40: Emulating the iconic Ford GT40, the Superformance GT40 utilizes a lightweight composite body and a powerful V8 engine.
– Roush Aero Mustang: Designed by Roush Performance, the Aero Mustang features an aggressive body kit, upgraded suspension, and a range of performance enhancements.
Fox Body Kit Car Community
The Fox body kit car community is a vibrant and active one, with enthusiasts from all over the world sharing their projects, offering technical advice, and organizing events. Here are some resources for connecting with the community:
– FoxBodyMustang.com: A comprehensive forum dedicated to all things Fox body Mustang, including kit car builds.
– National Mustang Club of America (NMCA): An organization that hosts various events, including kit car shows and competitions.
– Fox Body Mustang Parts: An online supplier of aftermarket parts and accessories for Fox body Mustangs and kit cars.
Conclusion
Fox body kit cars offer a unique and affordable way to create a personalized and high-performance vehicle. With careful planning, expert installation, and a supportive community, building a Fox body kit car can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience. Whether you dream of emulating a classic sports car or a modern supercar, a Fox body kit car provides the perfect platform to unleash your creativity and passion for automobiles.
