Kyllie Garrett's Mustang Masterpiece

*Image Credit: Street Machine

Kyllie Garrett's '68 Mustang: A Summernats Sensation

In the last five years years, the Elite Hall at the Summernats has become a showcase for some of the most impressive vehicles in the automotive world. Among these standout creations is Kyllie Garrett's 1968 Mustang, a car that perfectly encapsulates the fusion of contemporary style and classic appeal. This vehicle made its debut at the Summernats in 2022 and has since been a beacon of the enduring charm of the first-generation fastback.

Kyllie's1968 68 Mustang Fastback Specifications

From Gumtree to Glory

Featured in the October 2023 issue of Street Machine, Kyllie's Mustang journey began with an adventurous acquisition. Living in Ballarat, a city known for its vibrant street car culture, Kyllie discovered the car through a Gumtree ad. Despite initial reservations about its condition, she embarked on a 1200km round trip to Port Pirie in South Australia. There, she found a J-code Deluxe fastback, a rare and coveted model, languishing in a shed since the late 1980s. Kyllie says:  

I was hesitant about the state of it, but I jumped in the car the next day and made the 1200km round trip. It was a complete J-code Deluxe fastback."

Kyllie's dedication to restoring the Mustang was a mix of local sourcing and international treasure hunting. She found much of what she needed close to home, including support from Ballarat's Griffs American Auto Parts & Restorations. However, some parts, like the front suspension and one-piece door glass, were not available in Australia. This led Kyllie to travel internationally, acquiring parts and bringing them back, a testament to her commitment to authenticity and quality. Kyllie says: 

I remember coming back through customs with many kilos of luggage and declaring what I spent, only to be waved right through the gates,” Kyllie laughs. “Straight home I went!”.

Kyllie's Modern Twist on the Mustang

The transformation of the Mustang was extensive. Kyllie not only restored the car but also reimagined it. The exterior received a modern makeover with deleted drip rails and outer door handles, creating a smoother, more streamlined appearance. The rear of the car saw innovative changes with a minimalist approach to the quarter vents and indicator lenses. Kyllie's choice of a 347 Windsor engine from Ford Performance, topped with a side-mount Paxton blower, was a nod to the Shelby GT350s of the mid-60s. This powertrain configuration not only pays homage to the Mustang's heritage but also provides a hefty 560hp, marrying classic design with modern performance.

*Image credit: Street Machine

From Setbacks to Success

However, the journey was fraught with obstacles. Kyllie encountered unreliable contractors and faced significant challenges during the restoration process. These experiences, though frustrating, taught her valuable lessons and helped her identify a network of trusted professionals. Her perseverance and resilience are evident in the final product - a meticulously restored and upgraded Mustang that stands as a symbol of her passion and determination.

Passion and Pursuit

Beyond the technical aspects of the build, Kyllie's story resonates with the car enthusiast community. As a hobbyist rather than a professional in the automotive industry, her journey is inspiring. She balances her automotive passion with running a popular coffee business, Kombi for a Cause. Her participation in events like the Meguiar’s Great Uncover at Street Machine Summernats 34 is a testament to her dedication to the car scene.

Furthermore, Kyllie's experience serves as an inspirational narrative for her children, Kleo and Nixon. She involves them in her automotive pursuits, teaching them skills and instilling in them a sense of capability and adventure. Her story goes beyond the restoration of a classic Mustang; it's about passing on a passion, learning through doing, and the joy of being part of a vibrant community of car enthusiasts.