An engine starting system for a power train including an engine and an automatic transmission includes an engine stop/restart controller. The automatic transmission having special mode includes first and second planetary gear sets having respective sun gears, a turbine shaft, an output gear, a forward clutch and a 2-4 brake. The forward clutch sets the automatic transmission in a drive condition when engaged and in a neutral condition when disengaged. If the special mode is selected under conditions where the output gear is locked, the sun gear of the first planetary gear set is locked. During execution of automatic engine stop control operation, the engine stop/restart controller causes the automatic transmission to initiate a transfer to the special mode before fuel supply is interrupted and causes the forward clutch to completely engage at a specific point in time after the automatic transmission has completed the transfer to the special mode.