Owning a car, any car, even something as pedestrian as a Honda Civic, is a special kind of journey with a beginning, middle, and eventual end. The Ford Mustang is more than just a car to many people, representing both an ideal and a challenge as people spend years, or even decades perfecting their Mustang to be more of a personal statement rather than just a cold, unfeeling machine.

The Real Drivers series on YouTube took a look at the long journey of Michael Murphy and his 1985 Ford Mustang with a 5.0 V8, and the many stories he has to tell.

Like many Mustang stories, Murphy’s starts out with him seeing this old ‘85 Mustang for sale on the side of the road. Over the years he slowly built it up, putting in one part here or there and going from an embarrassingly slow 16-second car at the drag strip into something downright formidable. It may not be the sharpest-looking Mustang to ever leave the stable, but underneath is something Murphy has every reason to be proud of.

This video is a reminder to all of us, a reminder that that car hobby is a very special and unique hobby to be a part of. The commitment Murphy showed to his car, and dedication he showed to his vision, are something more of us should try to emulate. Every time a part broke, he just replaced or upgraded it, over time building the car he wanted to build.

Murphy looks at the overall experience not just the driving and enjoying, but the blood and frustration and sweat that comes from building something unique you to you. It’s an experience you just can’t buy.