It’s easy to find cars that catch your attention when you walk around the country’s top car shows. Some may even ignite a yearning to own one. Custom cars are subjective, and it’s uncommon to come across a classic that doesn’t need any personal taste alterations. It may not be for everyone, but this 1969 “Archer FX520” Mustang shown by Bobby Schumacher is one of those cars for me.

Larry Erickson, the chief engineer of the fifth-generation Mustang, debut in 2005, designed the Archer FX520 – a steel bodied 1969 Mustang concept car. Located in Missouri, the Archer FX520 Mustang was built by Vintage Fabrication.

According to Bobby Schumacher, owner-operator of Vintage Fabrication, the car is the first in a limited number of steel-bodied concept cars to be produced.

The Archer FX520 combines retro-styling with classic cues, is completely hand built, and features the latest performance components.

Set atop a Roadster Shop Elite Chassis, the Archer Mustang is built for some serious performance driving. It features a full-billet front suspension set up, as well as a rear independent-suspension system. Baer Brakes and 14-inch rotors help stop the car while a set of custom Boze Alloy wheels designed by Erickson, wrapped in Michelin rubber, complete the look.

The Archer is powered by a potent Jon Kasse Racing Boss 429 engine that has been stroked out to 520ci – the cars namesake configuration.

The Jon Kasse Racing engine is fuel injected and features top-notch components from the likes of Moroso, MSD Ignition, Crower, Crane Cams, COMP Cams, Scat Crankshafts, Auto Rad Radiators, Borla Exhaust and Ford Racing. With all of the performance components perfectly tuned, the engine is good for a whopping 761 horsepower.

Backing the Boss is a Bowler 4L80 automatic transmission that is controlled with paddle shifters for the perfect balance between the ultimate cruiser and a performance feel.

Active aero helps give the car a unique look, while performance is supplemented by the functional hood scoop, side scoops, and flared rear fenders.

While performance components of the Archer Mustang are satisfying, the custom steel bodywork goes above-and-beyond expectations.

The styling and various components look as though they came on the car standard from the factory. The design incorporates RingBrothers carbon fiber side mirrors with Kindig-it door handles, a billet grille, modern headlights, and iconic center-mount fog lights. The glass has a flush-fit without extra trim or brightwork.

In the rear, a custom road racing-inspired rear spoiler is utilized, along with retro taillights in a custom taillight panel. Other features include a custom fuel door, dual center-mounted exhaust below the recessed rear license plate panel.

Inside the Mustang, gauges from Classic Instruments are incorporated into the dashboard and accompanied by a Vintage Air system as well as other luxury components like Nu-Relics power windows and specialty wipers from Flaming River. The front Recaro seats are draped in black Italian leather and complemented by a rear-seat delete and carbon fiber roll cage.

The Archer FX520 concept car takes the best components of both modern and classic and reflects an overall outstanding, clean build.

Several other cars are under development at the shop. Bobby says those interested in purchasing a 1969 Archer FX520 Mustang concept of their own should contact the shop for details.

Enjoy the photo gallery below and check out the facebook video showcasing the car.