The Million-Dollar Restomod: An 800-HP Ford F-100 with Mustang Performance
Cars

The Million-Dollar Restomod: An 800-HP Ford F-100 with Mustang Performance

Larry Chen

By Larry Chen

This article explores the exceptional transformation of a classic 1956 Ford F-100 pickup truck into a high-performance restomod, meticulously crafted by Fat Fender Garage. It details the extensive modifications, from its powerful supercharged engine and advanced chassis to its custom exterior and luxurious interior, highlighting the fusion of vintage charm with contemporary automotive engineering.

Experience the Fusion of Heritage and Horsepower: Where Classic Ford Meets Modern Muscle

Fat Fender Garage: A Legacy of Reimagining Classic American Trucks with Modern Flair

Fat Fender Garage, situated in Gilbert, Arizona, has established a distinguished reputation for revitalizing classic trucks by incorporating advanced engineering, bespoke fabrication, and state-of-the-art performance components. The company has evolved from a traditional restoration workshop into a comprehensive builder and parts manufacturer, breathing new life into vintage American pickups and transforming them into contemporary marvels of automotive design and power.

The GT/FX Debut: A 1956 Ford F-100 Reimagined with Contemporary Performance and Attitude

The latest showcase of Fat Fender Garage's unparalleled capabilities is the GT/FX, a project unveiled at the SEMA 2026 Meguiar's booth. This remarkable build takes a 1956 Ford F-100 and infuses it with the dynamic character and exhilarating performance typically associated with modern high-performance vehicles. This ambitious endeavor involved an investment of over 15,000 hours in design, engineering, and meticulous fabrication, marking it as the workshop's most elaborate creation to date, fulfilling owner Tony Peressini's five-year vision.

Unleashing Raw Power: An 800-HP Supercharged Coyote V8 Engine

At the heart of this formidable machine lies a third-generation Ford 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, augmented with a potent 3.0-liter Whipple supercharger. This powerhouse combination generates an astonishing 800 horsepower and 750 lb-ft of torque, with power seamlessly managed by a Ford 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine also features custom valve covers and a bespoke three-inch exhaust system crafted by Fat Fender Garage, incorporating Borla XR-1 Raceline mufflers, JMD resonators, and electronically controlled cutouts for an exhilarating auditory experience.

Precision Dynamics: The FF1 Performance Coilover Chassis for Enhanced Handling and Stability

To effectively translate this immense power to the road, the GT/FX is equipped with an FF1 Performance Coilover Chassis. This advanced suspension system was meticulously engineered to endow the classic pickup with the handling characteristics of a modern sports car, focusing on superior body control, precise cornering response, and exceptional stability during both acceleration and braking. Complementing this dynamic setup are robust six-piston Wilwood front brakes and four-piston rear units, ensuring formidable stopping power. These are housed behind custom 20-inch HRE wheels, shod with high-performance Toyo Proxes Sport 2 tires, sized 245/45R20 at the front and 315/35R20 at the rear, providing optimal grip and handling.

A Masterpiece of Exterior Craftsmanship: Blending Classic Lines with Performance Styling

The exterior of the GT/FX has undergone an equally comprehensive transformation. Its all-steel body features a distinctively pancaked roof and hood, a two-inch sectioned cab, and artfully widened front and rear fenders. Custom running boards, chin splitters, and a Ford Mustang GT350 rear diffuser collectively contribute to its aggressive, performance-oriented aesthetic. Additional refined details include flush-mounted glass, sleek one-piece side windows, lightweight carbon-fiber mirrors, bespoke LED rear lighting, and a double-walled cargo bed with unique flares. Intriguingly, the original factory grille has been retained, while the stainless-steel bumpers, trim, and hardware receive a durable Cerakote finish. A custom BASF champagne paint scheme, accentuated by striking racing stripes, perfects its distinguished and powerful visual presence.

Luxurious and Modern Interior: A Bespoke Black Cabin Experience

The interior of the GT/FX is a testament to bespoke luxury and modern integration, featuring an entirely custom black theme. Premium leather upholstery adorns the comfortable bucket seats and the meticulously wrapped dashboard. The cabin is equipped with contemporary gauges, an advanced audio system, and discreetly integrated climate controls that channel air through a single, custom-designed vent, ensuring a sleek and uncluttered aesthetic. Fat Fender Garage has also incorporated its proprietary wiring harness, steering column kit, and air-conditioning components. Modern conveniences such as custom door actuators and a push-button tailgate release enhance usability without detracting from the truck's unique handcrafted character. While the official price remains undisclosed, Meguiar's has reported the project's cost to exceed $1 million, underscoring its exclusivity and the extensive craftsmanship involved. For those seeking a similar caliber of custom work, Fat Fender's Designer Series begins at $400,000, with builds often surpassing $600,000.