Restoring UPR Products' Legendary Red 1995 GTS - The BFGoodrich® Poster Car
The UPR Products team has been honored by the significant interest generated among enthusiasts, notably over 3,800 Facebook readers, following the recent showcase of the iconic UPR/BFGoodrich® 1995 GTS Mustang with Willie and Gaby Lujan. This enthusiasm prompted numerous inquiries regarding the vehicle's storied past and its comprehensive restoration after 24 years in storage—a project aimed at returning this pioneering drag radial champion to its former glory.
The initial phase of this meticulous restoration commenced at Tig Vision, where David Dodge undertook critical chassis modifications. This included replacing the original roll bar with a modern 25.3 specification roll cage. Further enhancements to the chassis comprised the installation of a robust 9-inch Merrilat/Strange rear differential, precision-engineered Mark Menscer struts and shocks, Racecraft dropped spindles, and high-performance TBM brakes at all four corners.
To preserve the vehicle's legendary appearance, immortalized on the BFGoodrich® promotional poster, a polished set of Weld Wheels was selected. These were fitted with Mickey Thompson drag radials, the contemporary tire of choice for elite drag racing applications, thus completing the rolling chassis assembly.
For motive power, a new 305 cubic inch Coyote 5.0 engine, featuring a billet crankshaft, was sourced from Tim at MPR Racing Engines. Complementing this, Dave from RPM Transmissions was commissioned to build a durable three-speed Turbo 400 transmission, engineered to handle the anticipated power output.
Subsequently, the project advanced to Sai Li's facility in Tampa. Sai managed the drivetrain installation and fabricated a custom BLF 79mm twin-turbo system, incorporating a Shaun's Billet intake manifold and an efficient air-to-water intercooler. Sai also expertly installed the fuel system and meticulously fitted the fenders and a new Schoneck composite nose.
The Mustang was then transported to Lujan Motorsports in Hialeah. Willie Lujan is overseeing the final assembly stages, which include interior fitment, instrumentation, and sensor installation. Upon completion of this phase, wiring specialist Michael Bunton will comprehensively update the vehicle's electrical systems and integrate a state-of-the-art FuelTech engine management system.
A primary objective of this restoration is to ensure the car's final aesthetic closely mirrors its celebrated depiction on the original BFGoodrich® poster. The decision to upgrade to a turbocharged Coyote 5.0 powertrain was strategically informed by UPR's extensive experience campaigning Bill Putnam's championship-winning Coyote-powered SN95 Mustang, the expertise of premier Coyote engine builder MPR Racing Engines, and crucial input from Team UPR's True Street and Sick Week racing participants.
This historic vehicle played an instrumental role in establishing UPR Products' prominence within the performance automotive market. The team eagerly anticipates the restored Mustang's public debut, celebrating its heritage as a pioneering champion and a true Mustang icon.