Joe Grippo’s 1970 Mustang transformed from a teenage dream into a drag racing powerhouse, embodying both nostalgia and performance. What started as a $400 find in the ‘80s became a symbol of passion, skill, and perseverance.
The Early Years: Finding the Dream Car
In the ‘80s, at just 15 years old, Joe Grippo discovered a 1970 Mustang SportsRoof for $400. Despite the car’s underpowered 302 V-8 engine, Grippo began working on it, scavenging parts from wrecking yards and eventually upgrading its appearance and performance.
The Rise of a Drag Racer: From Street to Track
By the ‘90s, Grippo’s Mustang was running on the streets of Pottstown, participating in street races. After attending a club day at Maple Grove Raceway, Grippo began making major modifications, swapping in a 351 V-8 engine and improving the car’s performance to run 13-second quarter miles.
Performance Upgrades: Building a Drag Racing Machine
As Grippo continued to enhance his Mustang, he replaced the 8-inch rear end with a more durable 9-inch, added roller rockers, a new cam, and carburetor, and improved the converter. The car soon ran 11-second quarter miles, though things weren’t always smooth—engine explosions and part failures were a part of the process.
Reaching New Heights: Engine and Suspension Overhaul
After detonating his engine at high RPM, Grippo turned to a Dart Iron Eagle block and high-performance parts to rebuild the engine. He also overhauled the suspension to handle the added power. The Mustang now runs consistent low 11-second times, solidifying its place as a reliable bracket car.
Modern Performance: Reliability and Consistency
Grippo’s Mustang now boasts a host of performance features, including Mahle pistons, AFR 220 aluminum heads, and a 4.56:1 rear end. The car’s setup is optimized for 10-second quarter-mile runs, with a unique throttle control system that allows Grippo to control the launch RPM.
Conclusion: A Legacy in Motion
Joe Grippo’s Mustang remains a standout in the world of drag racing. With its vintage style and modern performance, it represents the culmination of decades of passion and upgrades. If you ever find yourself at Maple Grove Raceway, be sure to catch Grippo’s legendary Mustang in action.
