The Monroe handler was a custom built Mustang II that could be considered the vintage equal to a modern day SEMA show car.

Based from a production hatchback Mustang II, this car was a joint effort between Monroe Shocks and Hot Rod Magazine with construction beginning in 1977. In total there were 7 Monroe Handler cars produced, the first had steel IMSA-style fenders while the remainder used fiberglass parts made by Creative Car Craft Company.

Six of these cars were awarded as sweepstakes prizes in a contest sponsored by Monroe, BF Goodrich Tires, Centerline Wheels, Ford Motor Company, Motorola Communications, Revell Models, and Roush. The remaining car was supposedly built for a southern US politician.

Each handler car was equipped with a 363-ci Roush smallblock engine, producing approximately 400 horsepower, a reworked suspension with Monroe “Handler” shocks, and the custom body appointments as seen in the photo. Creative Car Craft’s Dave Kent went on to produce “Handler” body kits for private sale to those looking to do their own conversions.

Spec Card

Original Price: unknown

Engine: Roush 363ci (5.95L) 400 BHP

Transmission: unknown

Weight: unknown

Performance 0-60 MPH: unknown

Performance 1/4 Mile: unknown