Reviving American Muscle: The Astonishing Journey from Garage Project to Racetrack Glory
In the world of contemporary automotive craftsmanship, where uniqueness often gets drowned in the sea of factory-produced uniformity, the tale of Chris Ashton and his Ruffian Mustang stands as a beacon of creativity, dedication, and sheer passion. This is not just a story about revitalizing the essence of American hot rods; it's about challenging the status quo, blending art with engineering, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a two-car garage.
The Dream and the Drive
Chris Ashton, a name previously known for his contributions to the computer game industry, embarked on a journey to bring his dream car to life after selling his company. With newfound free time and a burning passion for cars, particularly those with significant historical value like the Trans Am series, Chris set his sights on a 1970 Mustang. But this was to be no ordinary restoration. The project symbolized the birth of Ruffian Cars, marking a series of small batches of extreme, bespoke creations.
From Concept to Concrete
What makes Chris's project stand out is not just the end product but the journey there. With a mix of art background, a dash of ingenuity, and a reservoir of patience, Chris poured over 1,600 hours of work into his garage-turned-workshop. Utilizing YouTube videos for guidance, an English wheel, metalworking tools, 3D printing technology, and even a vinyl plotter from his bedroom, Chris sculpted, welded, and assembled the Ruffian Mustang from the ground up. Every component, from the exhaust system to the iconic red stripe adorning the car, was lovingly crafted by Chris's own hands.
Unleashing the Beast
The result of Chris's labor is nothing short of astonishing – a Mustang fitted with a Chevy LS427 engine, unleashing 625 horsepower through a six-speed manual Tremec box. The car boasts an aggressive stance with 315 section front and 345 rear Toyo tires, resembling slicks more than street-legal rubber. Yet, beyond its raw power and menacing looks, the Ruffian Mustang's true marvel lies in its functionality and street-to-track versatility.
A Test of Time and Tarmac
Proving its mettle, the Ruffian Mustang was put to the ultimate test at a racetrack, showcasing not just its stunning aesthetics but its remarkable performance. The car's seamless blend of classic muscle allure with modern sports car agility is a testament to Chris's meticulous attention to detail and understanding of automotive dynamics. The Mustang's wide-body, small block engine, and meticulously tuned suspension deliver an exhilarating driving experience that challenges preconceived notions about vintage muscle cars' capabilities.
The Ruffian GT40: A Bold Next Step
Not one to rest on his laurels, Chris's next project, a wide-body GT40, demonstrates an audacious ambition to reimagine another iconic piece of automotive history. Based on a Superformance GT40, Chris applied his unique vision and technical prowess to modernize the classic. With a focus on lightweight construction, the GT40 features custom-designed, carbon fiber body panels and a Ford 5.2 XS engine, cranking out 580 horsepower. The painstaking effort to craft equal-length, 180-degree headers and the innovative throttle pedal solution underline Chris's commitment to blending aesthetic appeal with peak performance.
The Ruffian Philosophy: Cars as a Canvas
Chris Ashton's work with the Ruffian Mustang and GT40 underscores a broader philosophy that sets Ruffian Cars apart. It's a reminder that at the heart of hot rodding lies the spirit of individualism, creativity, and an unyielding pursuit of personal vision. Cars, for Chris, are not just machines but canvases for expressing one's artistic and engineering prowess. The journey of Ruffian Cars exemplifies how passion, when fueled by talent and determination, can transform audacious dreams into reality.
As we await the next chapter in Ruffian Cars' story, one thing is clear: the world of custom car building is brighter and more innovative with visionaries like Chris Ashton leading the way.