Based on the subcompact Pinto platform and released late in 1973 as a 1974 model-year vehicle, the Mustang II was significantly shorter, narrower, and lighter than the Mustang it replaced.

In 1974, Ford released the Mustang II, a gutless machine based on the ignoble Pinto platform. For the pony car faithful, it was as though the Mustang had been gelded.

For 1975, Ford wedged a 5.0-litre eight-cylinder engine into the Mustang II’s engine bay. But with only 140 horsepower, it paled in comparison to the ‘Stangs from the late-1960s.

This is where we meet Brett Behrens, one of those few enthusiasts who have a soft spot for the Mustang II. A Ford guy who inherited the passion for the Blue Oval's models from his father, Behrens ...

The Mustang II was no match for the original’s performance. Road & Track (8/64) reported the original 4.7 litre (289 cu in.) V-8 Mustang sprinted to 97 km/h (60 mph) in 9.0 seconds and had a top ...