Classic Car Restoration Services: Changing A Coupe To A Fastback

By Author: Joel Neuder
Total Articles: 17
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Converting a Mustang coupe to a fastback is one of the most controversial projects for classic car restoration services. Some people think that it's not worth the effort - or the risk of ruining a perfectly good 1960s coupe. Still, there are plenty of Ford enthusiasts who are eager to pour their energy into building the rare and coveted fastback. Anyone who chooses to tackle this difficult task needs to understand the planning, decisions, and costs that they'll have to put into it.Why Convert?Between 1965 and 1968, fastbacks comprised as little as ten percent of the Mustang production line. Despite their popularity, they still only made up about one third of the Mustangs manufactured in 1969 and 1970. They were rare in their day, and they're even harder to come by now. Because of their racecar-like appearance and appeal, even the ones that can be found are often beat up from decades of heavy use.Since it's so difficult to find a fastback in decent condition, some classic car enthusiasts choose to convert their 1960s coupes. It's a complex, costly, and time-consuming project - but the sentimental value has no price for some Ford ...
... lovers. Plus, a successful conversion can skyrocket the car's resale value. Coupes are still relatively easy to find, but original fastbacks are going to become even rarer over the next several years.Stabilize the BodyVisually speaking, the most importance aspect of the conversion is changing the roof. However, it's crucial to first make sure the underbody of the coupe is structurally sound. Make all of the necessary repairs to the floor, frames, and rails while you still have the support from the original top. Only then should you think about cutting off the roof.Replacing the RoofRemoving your coupe's top is going to require the most skill and specialized tools. You'll need the right saw, welding equipment, and the know-how to use them. Most professionals use heavy-duty reciprocating saws to ensure clean, precise cuts, and normal household models simply will not do. And of course, you'll have to source the fastback roof itself - along with the new windows and frame pieces you'll now need.Conversion KitsAs the coupe-to-fastback conversion has become more popular among classic car restoration services, some companies have begun to offer entire kits for the project. They typically include:*Fastback roof*Quarter panels*Windshield replacement*Door and quarter class*Molding*Interior sheet metalThese kits can make the project much simpler, but you still have to make sure they include all of the necessary parts. If you're starting with a coupe that's missing other crucial components - or if you've already made other modifications - a generic kit might not provide all that you need.Considering the CostsEven if you're starting with a mint-condition coupe, this is probably going to be an expensive project in the 5,000 to 10,000 dollar range. You may want to look into buying a fastback body kit. They're also high-priced, but you would save an enormous amount of time and avoid costly mistakes.Still, the conversion might be cheaper than a body kit if you already have the necessary tools - and if you don't need to make extensive repairs to your Mustang's body. Some people also inherit coupes or find them for rock-bottom prices, in which cases a conversion makes the most sense.Finding Professional HelpSheering the roof off of a Mustang coupe, modifying the frame and applying a new top can be a daunting project. Even the most experienced Ford restorers are often wary of attempting the conversion themselves. If you're dead-set on making your coupe into a fastback, ensure that you only deal with an experienced classic car restorations specialist who understands exactly what this type of project will do to - and for - your car.