By Dean Larson

I love a good build theme. If done right, the build theme is like a story that tells itself when you incorporate the right cosmetic and mechanical touches. The builder of this custom Factory Five Type 65 Coupe states that he wanted to build a “Daytona Coupe 2.0,” but when you get down to the details, it seems he’s done even more than that. In my opinion, this builder created the perfect early 2000s Ford SVT Daytona Coupe throwback that’s so perfect, you’ll believe Ford built it.

The 2003-04 Terminator Cobra was built by Ford’s Special Vehicles Team (SVT) in Dearborn, Michigan. A little over 19,000 of these hopped up Mustangs escaped from the factory with a gnarly driveline and a host of visual modifications. The focal point of the Terminator package was under the hood; a 32-valve, DOHC 4.6-liter Ford Modular engine fitted with an Eaton M-112 roots-type supercharger. The engine was conservatively rated at 390 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. But don’t be fooled, this wasn’t simply a standard Modular V8 with a fancy iron lung bolted on top. SVT engineers strengthened the entire driveline to cope with the Terminator’s additional horsepower. Zolner pistons, Manley H-beam connecting rods, a modified wrist pin and a lightened flywheel helped the engine make the most of the supercharger’s 8 psi of boost, and a TREMEC T-56 transmission and stronger 31-spline axles helped put the power to the pavement. 

Building a Daytona Coupe replica with a wrecked Terminator Mustang donor would be awesome itself, but the builder went a step further. By incorporating period-correct design ideas and visual cues, this FFR Coupe makes for a convincing SVT Daytona Coupe concept car from the early 2000s.

The 4.6-liter Mustang heart with its huge, DOHC heads was wedged into the FFR body exceptionally well. It’s tight on the top, bottom and both sides, but the installation looks professional and the hood remains unaltered. The driveline was also improved slightly before being installed, with a ported Snake Bite blower from Stiegemeier Porting Services and an even stronger differential and axles. 

After seamlessly incorporating the mechanicals into the Factory Five chassis, the builder finished the paint and bodywork with some early 2000s Ford flavor. The Torch Red paint suits the Daytona shape well, but it was actually one of the original colors available for the Terminator Mustang. Those with a keen eye might also notice the slightly altered and more aerodynamic shape of this Daytona body. The rear wing is altered with a more streamline shape with less drag, appropriate for a modernized Daytona. But do enough reading and you’ll find that the 2004 Terminator also featured a similarly revised rear spoiler. On the same note, you’ll find that the Terminator had unique side skirts, taillights and front air ducting; all reflected in the FFR build. With the appropriate Cobra and SVT badging, and interior colors, the concept of a Daytona Coupe 2.0 Terminator is complete.

The Daytona Coupe Terminator 2.0 is currently for sale on eBay with an $85,000 asking price.