This article covers the legendary Martini Mustang built by Steve Strope, a one-of-a-kind 1965 fastback powered by a Ford Lotus 4-cam IndyCar motor, making it a unique blend of American muscle and Indy racing technology.
At the heart of this beast is an original IndyCar engine from 1966, developed and tuned by Ed Pink Racing Engines. It delivers between 500 and 600 horsepower at a screaming 9,000 RPM. The engine features a conversion from mechanical fuel injection to modern EFI, and the setup includes a dry sump system for racing reliability.
The car’s suspension and chassis are equally impressive. Front and rear suspensions come from Detroit Speed, complemented by custom fabrication and lightweight materials. The car rides on specially designed wheels by Evod, inspired by vintage IndyCar spoked wheels, and it rolls on Avon slicks that add to its track-ready setup.
Every detail of the car screams motorsport authenticity. From the handbrake sourced from dune buggies to the brake bias adjustment knob crafted for fine-tuning on the fly, it’s built for racing spirit. The interior features custom racing seats from GT Classics and a proto steering wheel, all designed to give precise control in a comfortable, functional package.
Despite being a race-inspired vehicle, this Martini Mustang is street-legal and designed for everyday driving—the only one of its kind with such elite race hardware under the hood. The car has been beautifully restored and maintained by its current owner, Steve, a passionate collector who understands the value of driving and preserving this rare piece of history.
The video captures a detailed walk-around and exciting drive, showcasing how this car marries raw power with refined engineering, and how it remains a true legend among Mustang and race car enthusiasts alike.