In a world full of custom Mustangs, few stand out quite like Ventoso—a 1994 Ford Mustang GT with a one-of-a-kind pedigree. Originally built and modified by the iconic Kenne Bell Inc., this car is #1 of just 2 ever created, making it one of the rarest surviving examples of period-correct Mustang performance.
Now residing in Staten Island, New York, Ventoso is owned by enthusiast John Kolbaska, who discovered the car just a year ago on Facebook Marketplace. “I liked the history of the car,” John says. “It wasn’t just a Mustang—it was a story, a time capsule, and something I felt needed preserving.”
And preserve it, he has.
The car only has 18,000 original miles and remains in jaw-dropping condition. Over the seven years Kenne Bell owned the car, they used it as a development platform, evolving it constantly—though not always documenting their changes. Originally fitted with Twisted Wedge aluminum heads, they eventually swapped in Dart II ported and polished Windsor 351 heads after repeated warping.
Some of the standout features include:
The previous owner had made only light, respectful changes to the car under his care, including:
“I love a good ole supercharger,” John says. “That’s my favorite part—it screams nostalgia and raw power.” But despite his appreciation for the car’s performance, Ventoso isn’t a regular driver. “It’s the only car I feel guilty driving. Like I’m not being a good steward if I take it out casually. I have other cars for that—I drive the hell out of them. But this one? This one stays protected.”
The only challenge with owning a car like this, he admits, is the sense of responsibility. “You’re the gatekeeper for a piece of Mustang history,” John explains. “It’s not just yours—it belongs to the culture.”
Ventoso will soon be displayed at the Mustang Owners Museum in North Carolina, further cementing its place in the history books. Though it hasn’t been entered in shows under John’s ownership, the car was featured in multiple magazines back in its heyday.
The name Ventoso—Italian for “wind”—was given by Kenne Bell themselves. Fitting, considering the car’s legacy was built on forced induction and pure velocity.
When asked what’s next, John keeps it simple: “Maybe new tires—they’re 20 years old. But otherwise, nothing. If money were no object, I’d still keep it just the way it is.”
With shoutouts to VA Motorsports by Vinnie Allegretta, Carl Melendez at 631 Coatings, Jenn from Foxy Events, and clubs like Vicious Stangs of Long Island, it’s clear this isn’t just about owning a rare car—it’s about honoring the people and passion behind it.
Follow John on Instagram: @lawndart81
