The proud owner of this fine muscle car has always loved American classics and was brought up going to car shows and drag races, But he credits watching the film, Bullitt, for wanting a Mustang of his own.

“It took me many years of saving up but in September 2013 I was finally able to buy my dream car.” After spending most of its life in California the car was shipped to Scotland in 1999, which is where Richard found it. “It was at a classic car dealer and I drove it back from Aberdeen to my home in Essex.”

He admits that the paintwork was ‘a bit rough around the edges’ but started on some work which included an upgrade to disc brakes, new 17-inch wheels, and a Shelby-style steering wheel.

But a lot more was to come and after a year it was sent to his uncle, a talented restoration specialist, where a full strip-down commenced. The no-expense-spared, nut-and-bolt restoration would take four years and involve more than 3500 hours of labour. Alongside the fresh paintwork was a fully rebuilt engine and transmission, new interior and a whole lot more besides.

Completed in September 2018, the stunning Ford was immediately crowned best American car at a local show, and it was the beginning of plenty more success. That included wins at the Mustang Owners Club of Great Britain national show three years in a row, which is certainly something to celebrate.

Says Richard: “I call the car Olivia and she’s my pride and joy. It’s just such a beautiful car, and I love taking her to shows and talking to other enthusiasts about the journey to get to how it looks today.” We’re big fans of American classics, too, and think this one is very special.