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How much horsepower does a Zimmer Mustang have?

There isn’t a single horsepower figure for the Zimmer Mustang. As a bespoke creation from Zimmer Motorcars in the 1980s and ’90s, horsepower depended on the engine chosen by the buyer; most cars used Ford V8 powertrains that aligned with Ford Mustang options of the era, with horsepower broadly ranging from about 100 hp in base four-cylinder versions to 225 hp or more in V8-equipped builds, and potentially higher if the owner opted for performance tuning. To know the exact number for a specific car, you need the build sheet or engine label from that vehicle.


Background and context


The Zimmer Mustang was part of a family of custom-bodied cars produced by Zimmer Motorcars during a period when fiberglass exteriors and coachbuilt finishes drew attention from enthusiasts. These cars were typically built on Ford Mustang platforms, using engines sourced from Ford’s lineup at the time. Because each car could be configured differently by the original buyer and subsequent owners, there is no single official horsepower rating for the model as a whole.


Engine options and horsepower ranges


Below is a snapshot of the kinds of engines that historically powered Zimmer Mustangs and the general power they produced. Numbers vary by year and configuration.



  • 2.3-liter four-cylinder — roughly 100–110 horsepower.

  • V6 options (when offered in some configurations) — generally in the 150–200 horsepower range depending on year and fueling system.

  • 5.0-liter V8 (Ford 302) — commonly around 225 horsepower in late 1980s to early 1990s eras, with higher-output HO versions approaching 230–250 hp.

  • 5.8-liter V8 / 351 Windsor variants — typically in the 250–290+ horsepower range, with some tuned builds exceeding 300 hp.


The exact horsepower for any individual Zimmer Mustang depends on the specific engine and any modifications. Always verify with the vehicle’s build documentation or engine stamping to confirm.


What to check if you’re researching a Zimmer Mustang


For collectors, buyers, or researchers, the most reliable source is the car’s documentation. Look for the original build sheet, VIN lookup, engine code stamp, and any receipts showing engine swaps or performance upgrades. Keep in mind that aftermarket modifications can dramatically alter horsepower even if the chassis remains the same.


Summary


In short, a Zimmer Mustang does not have a fixed horsepower rating. The number depends on the engine and the period in which the car was built or modified. While many examples followed Ford Mustang powertrains of the era, horsepower could range from about 100 hp in base configurations to 250 hp or more in V8-equipped, higher-performance builds. To determine the exact figure for a specific vehicle, consult its build documentation or inspect the engine labeling.

What is a Zimmer Mustang?


The Zimmer Golden Spirit was the flagship of the Zimmer Motor Cars Corporation during its production run from 1980 to 1988. While the original Golden Spirit was built using a Ford Mustang drivetrain, production began by cutting off or removing all body panels except the doors and roof.



Is a 5.0 Mustang faster than a scat pack?


A modern 5.0 Mustang is generally faster than a Scat Pack in a straight line, especially in roll races, due to its higher-revving engine and lighter weight. However, a Scat Pack is quicker off the line with its strong low-end torque, and it has more interior space and trunk room.
 
You can watch this video to compare the acceleration of a Mustang GT and a Scat Pack: 49sMotorTrend ChannelYouTube · Oct 13, 2023
Mustang GT (5.0)

  • Top speed: Generally higher than the Scat Pack in a drag race.
  • Acceleration: Quicker in roll races because its power is more accessible at higher RPMs.
  • Handling: More nimble and corners better.
  • Weight: Lighter than the Scat Pack. 

Dodge Challenger Scat Pack
  • Top speed: Generally lower than the Mustang GT.
  • Acceleration: Quicker off the line due to strong low-end torque, but its power band is lower.
  • Handling: Feels heavier and less nimble.
  • Weight: Heavier than the Mustang GT. 

This video shows the difference in acceleration and handling between the Mustang and the Scat Pack: 1mMod2Fame VlogYouTube · Mar 21, 2024
Which to choose
  • For overall performance: The Mustang GT is the faster choice, especially for track or road course driving.
  • For daily driving: The Scat Pack offers more interior and trunk space, while still providing powerful performance. 



Which Mustang has 1000 HP?


Venom 1000 Ford Mustang GT500
The Venom 1000 Ford Mustang GT500, upgraded to 1000 HP by Hennessey Performance, is a highly modified version of the already impressive Ford Mustang GT500, designed to deliver even more power and performance. In this comparison video against a stock version of the Mustang GT500, the differences are noticeable.



How many Zimmer Mustangs were made?


Approximately 1,500 Zimmer Golden Spirits were made based on the Ford Mustang chassis between 1980 and 1988, though exact numbers are difficult to confirm due to a lack of official production records. The exact production number is often cited as around 1,350 to 1,500.
 

  • Production period: 1980–1988
  • Base vehicle: Ford Mustang chassis
  • Estimated total: Around 1,350 to 1,500 units, with 1,500 being a common estimate
  • Factory: Pompano Beach, Florida


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.