Astro Bug

DALLAS - AstroBug -- Texas fabricator and Pontiac specialist Ted Fox today announced the Mighty Mule, an experimental reinvention of Pontiac's late-'70s V8 architecture that has posted jaw-dropping dyno numbers in prototype form. In tests conducted at three separate facilities, the Mighty Mule recorded 464 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, a dramatic leap from the stock 1979 Pontiac 301 V8's approximately 140 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.

Engineered with re-designed internals, modern materials, and 3-D printed components, the Mighty Mule is built to showcase what's possible when classic platforms meet contemporary design and manufacturing. While inspired by Pontiac heritage, the experimental package is being developed with cross-platform compatibility in mind, including potential applications beyond Pontiac and even select Ford models.

"The Mighty Mule started as a simple question: what if the '79 Pontiac spirit had today's tools?" said Ted Fox, creator of the Mighty Mule and owner of Scooter's Garage in Texas. "We set out to respect the look and soul of the late-'70s cars—but unleash performance that makes modern drivers grin."

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Currently, the Mighty Mule remains a prototype/experimental program while Fox explores the path toward limited production and parts packages for builders and restorers.

"For classic car fans, this is the best of both worlds—heritage styling with modern, reliable power," said Rob Garcia, San Diego–based PR strategist. "Ted's work shows how innovation can revive platforms many had written off."

Key Highlights

• Prototype dyno results: 464 HP / 479 lb-ft (vs. ~140 HP stock '79 301).
• Tested at three locations with consistent outcomes.
• Advanced methods: re-engineered designs, modern materials, and 3-D printed parts.
• Broader fitment vision: compatibility for multiple makes/models beyond Pontiac under evaluation.

About the Mighty Mule (Experimental)

The Mighty Mule is an experimental performance program from Texas mechanic Ted Fox, aiming to modernize classic Pontiac powerplants with contemporary engineering techniques while preserving period-correct character. Early prototype testing has demonstrated transformative gains over late-'70s factory output, with additional validation and development underway.

Scooter's Garage: https://www.facebook.com/ScootersGarage455

Media Contact

Rob Garcia
Email: editor@shiftlifedesign.com
Phone: 619-316-1856

Editor's note: Background on the Mighty Mule prototype, including dyno figures, methodology, and project roadmap, is available via a recent feature article.