Inspired by the cars of the legendary Trans Am Racing Series, video game creator Chris Ashton has produced a pair of All-American hot rods. Since Chris is an avid autocrosser, these cars had to be as functional as they were aesthetically appealing. Top Gear will put these All-American hot rods to the test – on the track – as intended.

Please keep in mind that (even though he had a virtually unlimited budget) Chris created both these cars in his residential garage.

In keeping with the Trans Am Racing theme, Chris chose a 1970 Ford Mustang for his first project. Custom wheel openings and a racing inspired paint scheme sound the alarm that this is a capable track machine. Chris hand formed the fender flares then packed them full of Toyo R888 rubber (315mm wide in front and 345mm wide in back). Everything about this car is designed to make it sticky fast.

Under the hood is an all-aluminum 7.0-liter Chevy LS motor and it’s naturally aspirated. The engine is carbureted and features a dry sump lubrication system. The manual gearbox is a Tremec 6-speed, and the rear end has a Torsen carrier with 4.11:1 gears. At peak RPM this puppy can churn out 625hp and 560 lb.-ft. of torque.

If the Ruffian Mustang is analog, the GT40 could be considered digital. Modern technology and contemporary styling reveal Chris’ obsession with the little things. Where the Ruffian Mustang is all metal, the GT40 is fiberglass and carbon-fiber. Nevertheless, there are custom features everywhere. The carbon-fiber fender flares are produced (by Chris) using computer engineered (and 3-D printed) molds.

The mid-mounted engine in this masterpiece is a fuel injected Ford Racing 5.2-liter XS. This Formula One style motor makes 580hp and spins at 8,000RPM.

There’s so much more to learn about these custom cars but I can’t wait any longer – let’s bust the gas on one of these monsters.

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