In a recent episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage,” Jay Leno gets up close and personal with a meticulously crafted 1968 Mustang GT Cobra Jet. However, it’s not your typical vintage Mustang. Instead, it’s a reproduction, painstakingly built from scratch by Tom Scarpello, the founder and CEO of Revology Cars.
Scarpello prefers the term “reproduction” over “replica” to describe his company’s creations. Unlike replicas, which are exact copies, Revology’s reproductions represent an evolved version of the original Mustang. This particular model sports a classic fastback silhouette, finished in a striking blue hue, and boasts modern features like LED lighting and power accessories.
Under the hood, this ’68 Mustang is powered by a potent 5.0-liter V8 engine, similar to those found in contemporary Mustangs produced at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant. However, it’s been enhanced with a supercharger, courtesy of Roush, boosting output to an impressive 710 horsepower. Despite its vintage appearance, this Cobra Jet is significantly lighter than its modern counterpart, resulting in exhilarating performance reminiscent of a land rocket.
Revology’s team faced numerous challenges in integrating modern components into the classic design. For instance, they replaced the original manual or automatic transmissions with a six-speed manual or ten-speed automatic, which required significant modifications to accommodate the larger gearboxes. Additionally, they upgraded the cooling system to ensure optimal performance in various climates, including the scorching heat of the Middle East.
Each Revology reproduction is meticulously crafted in-house at their factory in Orlando, Florida. While they strive to preserve the original design, practical considerations sometimes necessitate deviations, such as larger wheels to accommodate modern brake packages. Despite the meticulous craftsmanship, Revology maintains an impressive production pace, delivering around 60 cars per year.
Potential buyers can choose to register their Revology reproduction as a 1968 model, either by building it around a donor vehicle from the era or constructing the entire car from scratch. However, regardless of the registration method, customers can expect a blend of vintage charm and modern comfort, including features like air conditioning, power windows, and luxurious interior materials.
As Jay Leno takes the wheel of the ’68 Cobra Jet, he expresses admiration for the craftsmanship and attention to detail. Despite being a veteran of classic cars, he appreciates how Revology has bridged the gap between vintage aesthetics and modern performance, declaring it “money well spent.”
