Reversion Mustang
Richard | Jul 03, 2012 | Comments 0
When it comes to retro design and new cars the results are often far from acceptable. There are some exceptions both by the new car factories and individuals. One car we really like is the Mustang known as the “Reversion Mustang”. This new Kid on the block was built by ‘Johnny Sparks’ aka John Heermann. It is a 2011 Ford Mustang GT that has been completely cut apart and fitted with aftermarket sheet metal of 1968 and 1969 vintage. This new “old” sheet metal was hand fabricated to blend together with the new Mustang structure. The builder’s intent was to represent a look at yesteryear’s styling with today’s modern high tech controls and comfort. The Reversion Mustang features the new 5.0 Coyote engine with 6 speed. The power also includes a set of Dynatech headers, a JLT cold air intake, a SCT Tuner, plus wheels and tires from Late Model Restoration Supply, finishing it off is an engine cover by APR Carbon products.
At first glance this may appear to be a 1968 Mustang but look a little closer.
John is from a small farm town in Northeastern  Colorado, Haxtun which is near Sterling,  He has spent 2 ½ years in Lincoln, Nebraska while attending Ag Business at the University of Nebraska. As a freshmen he stopped in Doug Kielien’s custom shop. He was 19, liked cars and had a 65 Mustang back on the farm waiting for him. Doug put him to work in the shop doing basic stuff and he quickly showed signs of hard working, dedication and talent. It didn’t take long for him to be far more than a gopher. Training was started and in two years he was as good as Doug had ever seen in his 25 years of being a body restoration shop.
A lot of the original 2011 Mustang sheet metal ended up on the trash pile.
At a Mustang show at a Ford dealer he happened to hear a conversation between Doug and a friend casually talking about the new 2011 Mustang and how, in their opinion, it would look better if Ford had just carried over a few more retro styling cues. Well, John had to return to the family farm for a few days of planting but three days later he showed up at the shop with a brand new shinny 2011 Mustang GT!
Again, a quick look suggests this is little more than a custom 1968 Mustang.
The rest is history and very well documented with pictures and video. John is now working in the Loveland, Co. area at a Resto /Hot Rod shop and doing some work at Pinkees in Windsor as well, Doug state: ”I’ like to have him back here at my shop,  but John wanted to be in his home state Colorado, Who could blame him?”
From this angle it is a bit more obvious that this is more than a modified 1968.
I for one am very anxious to see more work from the metal artist!Â
Very similar yet very different.
Check out all the seems, this is much more than just hanging old sheet metal on a new body.
Filed Under: Car Stories • Featured • Project Cars
About the Author: I grew up and lived in Iowa for nearly 40 years before moving to Southern California. The time there was very rewarding but the urge for a slower pace moved us to Tennessee a few years ago and we love it. I have been into cars since I was old enough to remember. I don't have a brand loyalty although I do prefer American Muscle. As long as it has four wheels on it I get excited. Few men are lucky enough to be able to share their passion for cars with the woman they love. Fortunately, my wife Katriana is also a gear head and many of our activities revolve around the cars. When they don't we are usually out with our miniature donkeys. You can see more about that part of our lives at http://www.LegendaryFarms.com.
