Tiburon’s Mustang Makeover

Unexpected Mashup

Every now and then, a car project comes along that makes the gearhead community do a double take. This time, it’s a Hyundai Tiburon transformed to mimic a Fifth-Gen Ford Mustang. Originally a typical sporty coupe from Hyundai’s earlier days, the Tiburon was more known for its practicality than its prowess on the track. Over the years, though, creative minds have reimagined this unassuming ride into something a lot less expected, giving birth to some fascinating replicas.

Mustang Lookalike

Originating from the streets of Spain, this conversion has been in the enthusiast spotlight for several years now. Despite being built halfway around the world from Detroit, this Tiburon captures the Mustang’s spirit surprisingly well—with a little imagination. The car underwent a complete makeover, ditching all its original body panels for new ones that scream Mustang. The overhaul includes a custom front end, squared with Mustang-inspired headlights and a blacked-out grille showcasing bold racing stripes. Even though it’s not a perfect doppelgänger, the stance and aggression are sure to catch eyes.

Of course, the Tiburon’s natural proportions slightly betray its true identity. The rear end, in particular, displays a shorter overhang than that of an authentic Mustang, with a more boxy-looking tailgate. Still, the sense of style carries through the entirety of the build with classic Mustang features like the five-spoke wheels and the unmistakable Mustang badging.

Under the Hood

As for what powers this faux-pony, there’s no mention of significant modes under the hood. It retains its original 2.7-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, capable of producing around 172 horsepower. While the numbers do not rival those of a high-performance Mustang, this engine provides a sound that’s more engaging than a typical four-cylinder. For those who appreciate the rumble of a V6, this replica may sound just right.

The Drive

Driving this Tiburon-Mustang hybrid is likely a unique experience. It combines the lightweight and agile feel of a Tiburon with the broader, aggressive styling of a Mustang. While it’s not going to challenge a real Mustang on the strip, it promises a fun ride, perfect for cruising and making a statement at local car meets. Comparatively, it still feels like a sporty coupe on the road but with an eye-catching facade that’s bound to intrigue fellow drivers.

Car builds like these showcase the endless possibilities of automobile customization, proving that imagination is the only limiting factor. Whether strolling through the city or parked at the local burger joint, this Tiburon-turned-Mustang makes for a chat-starter and a testament to the creativity found within the automotive community.

Images: forocoches.com