For as long as there have been cars, there have been project cars. For as long as that, there have been father-and-son project cars and the goal of bringing families closer together. Addison Lee grew up wrenching on his father Don’s Cobra, and when it was Addison’s time to go to high school, father and son got to work putting together a 1965 Mustang fastback.

Though it sports the Shelby colors, Addison is quick to point out that this is a regular ol’ fastback Mustang. Even so, it’s undoubtedly one of the coolest rides at his school, and this young guy sure seems to know his way around vintage iron.

A 430 horsepower 347 stroker engine rests under the hood, backed by a five-speed manual with overdrive to compensate for the steep 4.11 gears out back. Stiff shocks and a tubular A-arm suspension help the Mustang out in the corners, making this a fairly well-rounded pony car whether it’s straightaways or twisties that Addison has to contend with.

This love of Mustangs led Addison to pursue a racing career as well, having competed in the American Iron and SCCA Spec Mustang series. Just like his father before him, Addison found himself drawn to the sights, sounds and smells of the racing circuit, and it’s rather amazing to think how something as simple as a project car could have such a profound impact on a person.

Yet all the time, energy, and money obviously paid off in Addison’s case. It’s a lesson in love, perseverance, and following your dreams, and we should all be so lucky.