Brandon Bendeich has hit the Young SMOTY finals with his gorgeous ’67 Muzzy coupe! Read on for Brandon’s story, and check out voting deets at the bottom of this page.

“From a young age I have always been involved with cars. After finishing school in 2016, I moved into my current role as a plant mechanic in an open-cut mine in the Hunter Valley.

Being freshly 18, I found myself scraping up the money to fund my first build, an LS-powered 180SX drift car. Many overtime shifts later, COVID hit and outings in the 180 stopped, so I turned this 1967 Mustang into my next project.

Purchasing the car in late 2020, I began in dads shed, building a rotisserie from scratch and sending the body to be sandblasted. As we all understand, getting a blasted shell back can be heartbreaking, and this one truly was. It uncovered that every panel was rusted apart from the roof. There were hits on both sides, and a long road ahead came to light.

I was lucky enough to be taught the art of auto electrical by my dad, and panel beating by my father-in-law, which I am forever grateful for. Those two skills, along with my mechanical background, allowed me to piece this old girl back to life.

Aiming for the smoothed-out look, it now holds a 511hp 363 Windsor stroker, nine-inch Truetrac diff with 31-spline axles, built C4, custom lines, Wilwood brakes all-’round, tucked 12v a/c, dual three-inch exhaust, custom steel reverse cowl, pearl white paint with black chrome, dark highlights, black interior and Recaro seats.

I not only enjoyed this build, but I have learnt a hell of a lot. Although long hours are great, patience and time is the key to a good result. I can’t thank my partner enough for her understanding throughout the past three years. With engineering just around the corner and finishing touches left to go, I can’t wait to finally enjoy this old girl every chance I get.”

Instagram @_brandonbendeich

Now, check out the rest of the contenders below and cast your vote for the chance to win $2500!