Australian Man Doubles Value of Budget V8 Ford Mustang in One Week
In a remarkable automotive journey, a 2016 V8 Ford Mustang found a new life after being purchased at a salvage auction in Australia. YouTuber Matty Willo discovered the damaged Mustang, which had been listed as the cheapest V8 model available, for just $17,250 AUD. After auction fees and delivery, Matty’s total investment reached $20,000 AUD.
Initial Impressions of the V8 Ford Mustang
The Mustang arrived with visible damages. The front bumper was cracked, and several body panels were misaligned. Despite these issues, the low mileage of less than 35,000 miles made it an intriguing prospect for enthusiasts.
Key Details of the Purchase
- Model: 2016 Ford Mustang GT
- Engine: 5.0-liter Coyote V8
- Transmission: Six-speed manual
- Mileage: 34,092 miles (54,866 km)
- Initial Purchase Price: $17,250 AUD
- Total Investment: $26,000 AUD after repairs
Interestingly, the previous owner’s license plate read “Matt Stang,” aligning with Matty’s name. Coincidentally, the Mustang shares a birthday with Matty—April 17.
Repairing the Mustang
Initial estimates indicated structural damage, but Matty found the chassis to be straight. Most of the repairs were cosmetic, involving the replacement of parts rather than extensive structural work.
Parts and Restoration Costs
- Parts Sourced: Genuine replacement components from a Ford dealer
- Parts Bill: Approximately $2,500 AUD
- Repair Techniques: Included plastic welding for broken components
With the new parts installed and some DIY repairs completed, the Mustang quickly transformed back into a functioning vehicle. Matty managed to keep costs relatively low and retained many original clips and fasteners.
Value of the Restored V8 Ford Mustang
With the restoration completed, Matty’s total investment of about $26,000 AUD set him up for success in the current market. Similar V8 Ford Mustangs can sell for substantially higher prices in Australia, often exceeding $40,000 AUD.
Overall, Matty Willo’s journey with the cheapest V8 Ford Mustang in Australia showcases the potential for value in restoration projects. Investors and fans of classic cars should pay attention—this kind of opportunity might just be waiting around the corner.
