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1966 Ford Mustang Converted into a Tesla with Working 'Full Self-Driving'

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Why This Matters

This innovative project highlights the potential for classic cars to be modernized with Tesla's cutting-edge technology, including full self-driving capabilities. It demonstrates the feasibility of retrofitting vintage vehicles with electric drivetrains and advanced software, opening new avenues for enthusiasts and the automotive industry to explore sustainable and autonomous vehicle integration. Such conversions could influence future custom builds and inspire broader adoption of EV and autonomous tech in the collector and restoration markets.

Key Takeaways

A Tesla auto parts shop owner in Sacramento spent about $40,000 and two years converting a 1966 Ford Mustang into a fully functional Tesla — complete with the Model 3’s dual-motor drivetrain, 15-inch touchscreen, and working “Full Self-Driving” (Supervised).

It’s likely the first non-Tesla vehicle to run FSD, and it achieves 258 Wh/mi — roughly matching the efficiency of an actual Model 3.

From Facebook Marketplace find to Tesla-powered classic

Yaro Shcherbanyuk, the owner of Calimotive Auto Recycling in Rancho Cordova, California, found the 1966 Mustang on Facebook Marketplace in the summer of 2022. Calimotive specializes in Tesla and Rivian parts, so Shcherbanyuk had access to the components — and the knowledge — needed for an ambitious build.

He worked on the project for roughly two years alongside his father Viktor and brother Daniel. The family initially considered fitting the Mustang with a Model S drivetrain, but once the car was stripped down, Shcherbanyuk realized the Model 3 battery was nearly a perfect fit.

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The team grafted three sections of the 2024 Tesla Model 3’s floor and seats into the Mustang’s body, shortening the battery case to fit without altering the car’s original dimensions. The result is a classic Mustang shell sitting on top of a Model 3 dual-motor setup good for roughly 400 horsepower and 471 lb-ft of torque — enough to push it from 0-60 mph in about 3.5 seconds.

‘Full Self-Driving’ in a 60-year-old car

The most remarkable part of the build isn’t the drivetrain — it’s the software. Shcherbanyuk retrofitted Tesla’s camera array onto the Mustang, enabling Autopilot, Sentry Mode, and “Full Self-Driving” (Supervised). The system reportedly works, making this what appears to be the first non-Tesla vehicle to actually run FSD.

My personal Robotaxi, 1966 Ford Mustang with Tesla guts. Probably the first non-Tesla running FSD. pic.twitter.com/Au0QH9wZOh — Yaro (@Tutrifour) August 7, 2025

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