As the creator of The Smoking Tire YouTube channel, Matt Farah has driven pretty much everything; so there’s no doubt that he’s driven the best. Not to mention, his ’89 LX notchback Mustang is just about one of the best sorted out vehicles for scooting through the canyons in Southern California, so if you can impress Matt with your car, you’ve done your homework.
The cool thing about Matt is that you can send him information about your car, and there’s a chance that he’ll meet you in Tujunga Canyon, drive your car, and give his impression. In this episode, Matt takes Auston Gessow’s 2008 track-prepped Crown Vic Police Interceptor out for a spin
What appears to be a mere ex-police cruiser highway boat is actually a well thought-out and track-prepared, corner-carver that is literally two tons of fun, as Matt deftly demonstrates in the video. The car belies its massive size and handles beautifully through the corners. However, it’s not as modified as you might think.
As Matt drives the car, you can see the stripped interior as Auston runs down the mods. Throttle body, plenum, and air filter box on the 137K mile SOHC 4.6. However, out back is a full setup from Maximum Motorsports, Tokico D-spec shocks with a 4.10-equipped 8.8 limited slip diff. Surprisingly enough; the front suspension is very stock, save for adjustable end links on the sway bars. The improved feel is attributed to the smaller diameter front wheels with 275 tires on all four corners (with GT500 wheels), and the welded up body seams.
With an entire investment of about $7000, Auston’s Panther platform is an absolute hoot to drive, and Matt thoroughly enjoys himself on his canyon run. Future plans are a 5-speed manual and more power, now that the chassis is sorted out. Sometimes good things come in huge, colossal packages!
Be sure to check out The Smoking Tire’s YouTube page, Matt drives a wide variety of cars and has a ton of driving skill. Plus, he’s documented the build up of his ’89 notchback that you’ll no doubt enjoy.
Living in Richmond, Tx, PJ Rentie has been in the automotive industry for more than 30 years. This former Assistant Editor at Vette Magazine also spent time with companies like NOS, Edelbrock, Hillbank Motorsports, Classic Industries, and was an automotive instructor for Cypress College for ten years. In his spare time, PJ hopes to one day bring his Fox Body Mustang out of the back yard and back onto the street!
