Get ready to witness the rebirth of an American legend—the 1969 Ford Mustang, reimagined as the KINGPIN by Ringbrothers. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this restomod a masterpiece of modern engineering or a bold departure from the classic Mustang’s timeless appeal? Let’s dive in.
At this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Ringbrothers unveiled their latest creation, the KINGPIN, a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 transformed into a 21st-century powerhouse. This isn’t just a facelift—it’s a complete reinvention. With over 5,500 hours of meticulous craftsmanship, the team has seamlessly blended the Mustang’s iconic silhouette with cutting-edge performance and design. And this is the part most people miss: every panel, every curve, and every detail has been painstakingly redesigned to honor the past while embracing the future.
The transformation starts with the chassis. The original unibody has been replaced with a Roadster Shop FAST TRACK Stage III chassis, widening the body by two inches at the front and three and a half at the rear. The wheelbase has also been extended, giving the KINGPIN a more aggressive and balanced stance. It’s a bold move that sparks debate: does this modernization enhance the Mustang’s legacy or overshadow its original charm?
Images © Ringbrothers
While the KINGPIN remains unmistakably a Mustang, its design language is entirely new. Collaborating with Ragle Design, Ringbrothers sculpted a body that exudes tension and precision. The handcrafted panels are finished in BASF’s Bootleg Black, a matte tone that absorbs light, allowing the car’s geometry to take center stage. Accents in ‘Grab-Her Green’—a playful twist on Ford’s classic Grabber Green—add a subtle yet striking contrast. But here’s the question: does this color scheme pay homage to the past or push the boundaries too far?
Carbon fiber is seamlessly integrated throughout the KINGPIN, from the rear diffuser to the hood and grille surround. Each component is designed to enhance aerodynamics and reduce weight, ensuring the car’s performance matches its stunning looks. The attention to detail is remarkable, with 3D-printed and machined billet parts showcasing Ringbrothers’ commitment to both form and function. Yet, some purists might argue: does this level of modernization dilute the raw, unfiltered spirit of a classic muscle car?
Under the hood, the KINGPIN roars to life with a Wegner Motorsports 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine, paired with a Whipple supercharger to deliver over 800 horsepower. A six-speed manual Bowler gearbox, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and Brembo brakes designed for endurance racing complete the package. The engine bay itself is a work of art, a symphony of power and precision. But this raises a thought-provoking question: in the pursuit of performance, have we lost the simplicity and soul of the original Mustang?
Inside the cabin, the KINGPIN continues its theme of disciplined design. Custom upholstery, carbon fiber elements, and brightwork create a harmonious interior. The ENYO crushed-carbon hoop steering wheel, Dakota Digital gauges, and Vintage Air Gen IV system blend modern technology with timeless style. Co-owner Jim Ring explains, ‘Everything was cued off the Mustang’s original design,’ while Mike Ring emphasizes their focus on proportion and precision over novelty. But is this balance enough to satisfy both traditionalists and modern enthusiasts?
As you admire the KINGPIN’s widened body, lengthened wheelbase, and custom BASF Bootleg Black paint, you can’t help but wonder: is this the future of restomods, or a daring experiment that divides opinions? We want to hear from you—does the KINGPIN honor the Mustang’s legacy, or does it take the concept of modernization too far? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
