Even when outfitted with the latest and greatest powertrains or suspension components, restomodded vintage muscle car builds still lack the geometry, weight distribution, width, and overall driveability of a modern sports car. Wanting to deliver a modernized retro muscle car with contemporary performance capabilities, Florida’s Cohn Racers has begun a limited build series that aims to offer the best of both worlds with the appearance of a widebody American pony car icon draped over a modern, high-performance chassis.
Starting with a Corvette C7 Z06 as its donor platform, Cohn Racers has scanned the entire drivetrain and then used this data to scratch-build a fully-custom frame. From there, the team has designed a modern, ultra-widebody 1960s-era Ford Mustang shell that sits over the bespoke framework with super-flared fenders, a redesigned front end, and a custom dual-muffler exhaust system exiting through the middle of what was the taillight panel. In addition to top-of-the-line carbon-ceramic brakes, the Cohn car also features ultra-unique cantilevered suspension setups fore and aft — with the front items hugging either side of the engine while the x-shaped rear shocks are visible through the car’s rear window. This new suspension also maintains the exact geometry and distance of travel of the OEM donor.
At the heart of the scratch-built Chevy-Ford amalgamation is the C7 Z06’s naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8, which cranks out an astounding 650hp and 650ft-lbs of torque. And, thanks to the C7 Z06’s powertrain and other various components, Cohn Racer’s muscle car is expected to maintain similar performance specs, which means a roughly 3.5-second 0-60mph time and a top speed exceeding 200mph. The muscle car will also sport the same world-class craftsmanship, execution, and attention to detail as Cohn Racer’s ultra-top-shelf custom motorcycles, as well as the shop’s proclivity for bespoke details and utilizing high-end precious materials and finishes.
Currently around 70% complete, Cohn Racer’s first muscle car prototype is expected to be finished by the end of the year — around which time the South Florida shop will begin taking orders. In total, only 51 examples will be created, each built entirely by hand in a different color and requiring a six-month to one-year build time. Those interested in placing their own order or investing in the up-and-coming shop can contact Cohn Racers via its website.
