1965 Ford Mustang

Description

Mustang convertibles will always rank high on collectors' wish lists. This pretty 1965 ragtop offers all the great Mustang virtues, including a V8 engine, a great color combination, A/C, and, of course, unbeatable classic good looks, with absolutely no drawbacks.

In a sea of bright red Mustangs, this lovely Wimbledon White ragtop stands out and is a fitting car to own on this, the eve of the very first Mustang's 50th anniversary. Repainted in the mid-2000s, the finish is deep and lustrous with the only flaws being the result of driving and enjoying the car, not due to the workmanship, which is uniformly good. The result is a car that's both instantly recognizable but looks like something more expensive, and the upscale color combination can only help it keep a low profile with the local constabulary. Panel fit is very, very good, with good gaps all around and doors that open and close easily, a sure sign that the structure underneath is solid and strong. Nobody took any liberties with the classic Mustang details, either-there's a set of '260 badges up front (more on those in a moment), plus quarter panel inserts on the flanks. In fact, all the trim was restored and simply sparkles against the Wimbledon White paint job. Halogen headlights were added, and definitely make a difference in nighttime driving.

A two-tone black and white interior is a bright and cheerful choice on the convertible and really works well. Things like the carpet, console, dash pad, and seat covers were replaced not too long ago, while the door panels are in good shape and may very well be original. Sharp-eyed readers will note that a reproduction A/C system has been installed in the usual location under the dash and the radio is a modern AM/FM stereo unit in the original slot. Factory gauges show bright markings and clear lenses, perhaps too nice to be original but possible and the steering wheel is a correct 3-spoke piece that's just the right color and not too bright. The power top is in very good condition with a crystal clear rear window, and a matching white boot is included. Finally, the trunk is finished with a reproduction mat, jack bag, and a cover for the spare tire.

Early Mustangs sported Ford's 260 cubic inch V8, which really doesn't give up any performance to the 289 that would follow. It's finished in black, as all the early V8s were, and with chrome valve covers and an open-element air cleaner, it looks dressed up for show. Early cars also had generators, but this one carries a proper alternator for reliability and better performance at low speeds. The 260 was completely overhauled about the same time it was repainted, with the C4 3-speed automatic transmission behind it being rebuilt just last year (2013). The undercarriage is quite clean, carrying a recent dual exhaust system and power steering that really does make a difference, even in the relatively lightweight Mustang. The 9-inch out back is full of 3.00 gears and it rides on classic styled steel wheels with 195/75/14 blackwall radials.

If you love Mustangs, you can't help but realize that this is a fantastic summertime cruiser that will never go out of fashion. Add in A/C, a wonderful V8 exhaust note, and more than $11,000 in restoration receipts, and it's a safe bet for future fun. Call today!