It’s getting around to the one surefire point of proof that it’s Autumn in North America. No, not changing leaves…none have fallen at my house and barely any were turned on my Canada trip a couple of weeks ago. I’d say it’s because “pumpkin spice” season is here, but when I saw pumpkin spice Shredded Wheet, I decided that wasn’t going to fly. Nope, it’s fall for one simple reason: SEMA. Our annual pilgrimage to automotive Mecca is drawing closer, and that means Las Vegas is going to see all three of us in the same spot again as we bust our humps at the show. But given that Las Vegas is desert country…and, honestly, because I needed something to write about for you today on short notice…why not go hunting for a project car? I didn’t want to do another Rough Start find back-to-back, but this 1980 Ford Mustang made a case for itself that I can’t deny.

From the ad: “1980 mustang excellent body. Clean interior. Quarter stick. 2 5/8 gauges. mild 460 motor. C6. Fuel cell..dual batteries.. 8.8 rearend. New 390 gears in box. Moroso electric water pump drive. Headers with electric exhaust cutouts. Dominator carb. Nos system with big shot plate. Dash mount msd timing control. .aluminum radiator dual fans. Pace car front end New wheels and tires..5 lug. Car runs great. Dependable drivetrain. Very nice condition for age. Lots of potential. . Cant build one for what im asking. Illness forces sale.“

I hate seeing the words, “illness forces sale”. I hate it with a passion, because you take one look at this Fox and you know this was a dream build. You know time, energy, passion and thought went into the car. Sadly, sometimes that’s the way it goes. But to a good home, this Mustang needs to go. Any of you interested in a big-block Fox body? I’m asking you because if I spent five grand in Vegas, my wife will curb-stomp my ass when I get home. “It’s better to beg forgiveness than to ask permission” does not apply when you buy a random car!

Craigslist Link: 1980 Ford Mustang