1996 Mustang Cobra - Plain Reign

The cockpit is consistent with the low-key theme despite the supportive Recaros and Autopower rollbar. Auxiliary gauges that monitor the huffed 4.6 are obvious, but only Tom and our readers know that the Pro-5.0 stick stirs a T56 six-speed.

By fall 2001, Tom's car had been completely transformed, in large part by the hands of Brad's Custom Auto technician Scott Hicks. The build crew was justifiably proud when the car hit the streets on a regular basis. While 600hp 4.6s are animals we see from time to time in today's world, it was considerably more unusual six years ago. No matter-big power thrills don't diminish just because you're not the only game in town.

Tom reports plenty of fun in all the wrong places. While nothing's wrong with the nice weather drives that Tom loves to indulge in, a car of this potential can't be adequately or safely explored on the street. More to the point, other priorities and obligations in life have prevented extensive track forays, though the desire is present. Ultimately, the dream is to participate in open-road-style events such as Silver State.

Until then, Tom has a variety of local choices that allow for exuberant full-throttle exercise. We won't predict when and where this '96 may appear to test it's mettle, but when it does, it will be a pertinent reminder that you can't judge a book by it's cover-or a plain vanilla Mustang by it's understated looks. Poseurs, consider yourselves warned!