A 2014 Mustang stayed completely stock for ten years, which is rare among car enthusiasts. After a decade of enjoying the car just as it was, its owner decided to upgrade nearly every part to make it stand out both in looks and performance.
This transformation took place at Evolution Performance, where the original car received major changes from suspension and wheels to a powerful supercharger under the hood. The finished build is a striking example of how a classic Mustang can be brought into a whole new league.
Key Takeaways
- The project started with a stock 2014 Mustang.
- It underwent a full performance and style transformation.
- The owner and host shared their reactions to the completed car.
Quick Look at the 2014 Mustang S197 Makeover
Starting Point: All-Original Mustang
The 2014 S197 Mustang began as a completely original model. The car was kept in “as purchased” condition for a decade, with all parts untouched and unmodified.
- Key Features:
- First generation Coyote 5.0L engine
- Factory exhaust system
- Stock LED tail lights
- Original wheels, brakes, and suspension
A table for reference:
| Feature | Status Before Build |
|---|---|
| Engine | Stock Gen 1 Coyote |
| Suspension | Original |
| Exhaust | Factory |
| Wheels & Tires | Stock |
| Taillights | Stock LED |
Why the Owner Waited to Upgrade
The owner had always dreamed of owning a Mustang and finally got one in 2014. For ten years, the car was enjoyed as it was, with no desire to modify it.
He thought about buying another car but chose instead to transform his original Mustang into his ideal build. This decision marked the start of a full performance and style upgrade.
Motivation highlights:
- Wanted to enjoy the factory driving experience
- Appreciated the stock look and feel
- Decided to upgrade only after years of ownership
Why Stock Mustangs Matter
Finding an untouched 2014 Mustang S197 can be rare today. Many owners change parts soon after buying their cars. Preserving a stock model allows for a true before-and-after transformation.
Benefits of keeping cars original:
- Helps enthusiasts see the difference that modifications make
- Keeps original factory condition for reference
- Acts as a “blank slate” for full custom builds
Many fans value cars like this for their clean starting point and the chance to witness a dramatic upgrade.
Before the Upgrades Inspection
Outside Appearance and Key Design Details
The 2014 Mustang shows off its original look with clean lines and classic bodywork. The LED taillights on the back give a sharp, modern touch. Both the headlights and fog lights are untouched from the factory. The stock exhaust system, with no modifications, keeps the car quiet. The paint and finish have been well cared for, showing only regular use. Original wheels and tires remain in place, completing the factory look.
Details of the Original Coyote V8 Engine
Under the hood, the first-generation Coyote engine is in perfect factory shape. The engine bay is very clean. The stock engine cover sits on top, adding to the original appearance. No parts have been changed—everything from the strut tower brace to the Ford factory cold air induction is as it came from the dealer. When started, the engine gives the steady, moderate sound of a stock V8, easy to tell from any modified setup.
Quick Facts Table
| Engine Type | 5.0L Coyote V8 (Gen 1) |
|---|---|
| Intake | Factory Cold Air System |
| Engine Cover | Stock OEM |
| Mileage | 80,000 (unmodified) |
Factory Equipment and Unchanged Details
Every main component is factory installed and has not been swapped or upgraded. The car uses a standard key ignition—no push button start here. The exhaust system, suspension, and brake setup are still the original equipment. Even after 10 years, authenticity remains high, with no aftermarket add-ons or visible custom parts. Everything lines up with what Ford delivered in 2014, making this a true stock example.
How Upgrades Are Done at Evolution Performance
Chassis and Suspension Improvements
The Mustang received a BMR suspension setup. This lowered the car and is meant to improve how it handles and feels on the road. A panhard bar brace was also added, which is useful for the car’s rear axle setup. The new shocks and lowering springs make the car sit and drive differently compared to when it was stock.
Key changes:
- Lowered ride height
- Improved stability
- Panhard bar brace for better control
Wheels and Brake Upgrades
New wheels were installed along with upgraded Wilwood brakes. The car also got fresh tires for better grip. These bigger and stronger brakes are made to handle the increased horsepower and offer safer, more reliable stopping. Everything works together for better performance, especially with the car now making more power.
| Part | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Wilwood Brakes | More stopping power |
| New Wheels | Improved appearance and grip |
| New Tires | Better traction |
Exhaust and Sound Changes
The exhaust was swapped out for a performance system featuring Cooks headers. This change not only helps the engine breathe better, but it also gives the car a much louder and more aggressive sound. After firing up the engine, the difference in the exhaust tone is clear and a big jump from the stock setup.
- Cooks headers for more flow
- Louder, deeper sound
- Improved performance
Exterior and Style Upgrades
Several changes were made to the outside of the car. A new carbon fiber hood, which is painted but still lightweight, was installed. Other visual touches include a blacked-out spoiler, new headlights, fog lights, and a custom front grille. These upgrades make the Mustang look more modern and aggressive, turning it into a unique build.
Features:
- Painted carbon fiber hood
- Black spoiler
- Updated headlights and grille
- Lightweight hood struts for easy access
Performance Upgrades
VMP Gen 3R Blower Setup
A VMP Gen 3R supercharger was fitted to the engine. This supercharger uses a TVS design and runs on a single belt system. It features a twin jet 69 mm throttle body for increased airflow. The supercharger is paired with a visible boost gauge inside the car, making it easier to monitor boost levels while driving. This system produces 767 rear wheel horsepower using 94 octane fuel.
Engine Enhancements and Add-Ons
Several changes were made to help the engine with the new power. The build includes billet oil pump gears for better reliability. GT500 blue valve covers give the engine a unique appearance and extra strength. Oil catch cans from UPR were also added to keep oil out of the intake system. The alternator and radiator from the Boss 302 model are used to keep electrical and cooling systems strong. The setup also has Cooks long tube headers and a new exhaust for better engine breathing.
Cooling and Heat Management
A Boss 302 radiator was installed to handle the extra heat from the supercharger. Cooling improvements also include a carbon fiber hood, which is lighter and may release heat faster. The hood has strut upgrades to stay open, even with the lighter material.
Cooling Upgrades Table:
| Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Boss 302 Radiator | Larger, better heat control |
| Carbon Fiber Hood | Lighter, improved cooling |
| Hood Struts | Supports lighter hood |
Transmission and Drivetrain Changes
The Mustang now uses an MGW short shifter for quicker and more accurate gear changes. Stronger Mcleod clutches were also added to handle the higher horsepower. For better traction and control, BMR suspension parts lower the car and stiffen the ride. The car now has upgraded brakes from Wilwood and new performance tires. The addition of a panhard bar brace supports the solid rear axle.
Finished Build Presentation
Notable Changes in Appearance
- Wheels and Brakes: The car features upgraded wheels with Wilwood brakes for enhanced stopping power. New tires complete the look.
- Body Changes: A painted carbon fiber hood replaces the original hood, bringing both lightness and a new style. The spoiler has been swapped for a black version, making the rear end stand out compared to the color-matched, smaller original.
- Lowered Suspension: The BMR suspension has lowered the car, giving it a more aggressive stance.
- Lighting Upgrades: The build includes new headlights, fog lights, and an updated grille, giving the front end a modern and clean design.
Upgraded System Details
| Feature | Stock | Upgraded Build |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Gen One Coyote V8 | Gen One Coyote V8 with VMP Gen3R Supercharger |
| Horsepower (rear wheels) | Not listed | 767 HP (on Sunoco 94 Ultra) |
| Exhaust | Stock Exhaust | Cooks Headers and Aftermarket Exhaust |
| Suspension | Factory | BMR Lowered Suspension |
| Brakes | Stock Brakes | Wilwood Brakes |
| Hood | Standard | Painted Carbon Fiber |
| Shifter | Standard | MGW Short-Throw Shifter |
| Clutch | Standard | Upgraded Performance Clutch |
| Radiator | Stock | Boss 302 Radiator |
| Alternator | Stock | Boss 302 Alternator |
| Valve Covers | Standard | GT500 Blue Valve Covers |
| Catch Cans | Not included | UPR Catch Cans |
| Additional Features | None | Boost Gauge |
Sound: Original vs. Upgraded
- Before Upgrades: The car started with a very quiet, factory exhaust note. The startup and idle were smooth and subtle, with only a hint of V8 rumble when revved.
- After Upgrades: The new setup features a far louder and deeper exhaust because of the new headers and performance system. On startup and rev, the car now sounds much more aggressive, with a sharp, intense growl that stands out from the stock sound.
- Driver Reaction: The change in sound surprised and impressed the owner, especially when revving, showing just how much the new exhaust and engine upgrades have changed the overall driving experience.
Owner and Presenter Responses
Carl’s Initial Thoughts and Comments
Carl saw the Mustang after all the upgrades were finished. He was surprised and excited by the changes. The car looked and sounded very different from before. He said it “looks like a whole different car” and especially liked the black spoiler and the carbon fiber hood, mentioning how light it felt with the new hood struts. Carl also noticed the upgraded headlights, fog lights, and the front grill. He said the car was very clean and loved the deep sound when the engine was revved.
Highlights:
- Visual changes: Likes the black spoiler, hood, and cleaner look
- Sound: Impressed by how much louder and stronger the car sounds
- Upgrades: Noted the boost gauge, wheels, and big brakes
- Feelings: Excited and happy with the results
| Feature | Carl’s Opinion |
|---|---|
| Hood | Loves carbon fiber, very light |
| Spoiler | Likes the new black color |
| Engine sound | “That sounds sweet” |
| Wheels & brakes | “I love them” |
| Suspension | Feels improved, lower |
Presenter’s Driving Impressions
The host prepared to drive the upgraded Mustang for the first time. He pointed out that the car now has much more horsepower and big performance parts like the supercharger, BMR suspension, and a short shifter. He expected the car to be much faster and said it now “rips.” The host noticed the car’s new grip and handling from the fresh tires and suspension, as well as strong new brakes.
He also appreciated how the car remained clean and tidy inside and out, despite the major upgrades. The host looked forward to showing how the Mustang performed on the road, focusing on both power and drivability.
Upgrades Noticed:
- VMP Gen 3R supercharger
- BMR suspension
- MGW short shifter
- Wheel and tire upgrade
- Wilwood brakes
Driving Expectations:
- Much more horsepower and speed
- Better handling from new suspension
- Stronger braking for safety
- Overall a big change from stock configuration
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Key improvements after the transformation:
- The 2014 Mustang moved from a fully stock state to a high-performance build.
- Major upgrades include a VMP Gen 3R supercharger, Cooks headers, and a full BMR suspension system.
- New features such as upgraded Wheelwood brakes, fresh tires, and new wheels provide better safety and handling.
- Added performance components, like the Boss 302 alternator, Boss 302 radiator, and UPR catch cans, support the power increase.
Highlights of the Build:
| Upgrade | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | VMP Gen 3R Supercharger, oil pump gears, GT500 valve covers |
| Suspension/Brakes | BMR suspension, Wheelwood brakes, lowered ride height |
| Exterior | Carbon fiber hood, new headlights, black spoiler |
| Interior | MGW short shifter, new clutch system |
| Performance Output | 767 rear wheel horsepower on 94 octane |
- The appearance is refreshed with elements like a carbon fiber hood and black spoiler.
- The car now sounds and feels much more powerful and responsive than ever before.
- Essential gauges and systems were added for safety and performance monitoring.
What Makes This Build Unique:
The project showcases how a stock S197 Mustang can be dramatically improved with the right upgrades. Careful part selection and professional installation created a well-balanced, reliable, and visually striking car.
Standout features include:
- Twin jet 69 mm throttle body
- Boost gauge for monitoring supercharger output
- Enhanced cooling and safety systems
The result is a rare example of a first-generation Coyote Mustang with modern muscle performance and style.
