1965 Ford Mustang T5

Description

By now most of you know that the T5 was Germany's name for the early Ford Mustang, and this 1965 Ford T5 is, indeed, registered with the T5 Registry. Designed for GIs stationed overseas, it's essentially the same car in all but name, but then again, this impressive pony has more than a few trucks up its sleeve.

Wimbledon White is the classic Mustang color, and with that Shelby-style hood and twin nostrils up front, it's certainly an appropriate choice on this early pony. The bodywork is in good order and this is a tidy-looking Mustang, er, T5 with doors that close well, a trunk that lines up right, and even an aftermarket hood that fits pretty well, so you know there was some time invested in all that stuff. The paint shows some signs of enjoyment however, which is a big part of why this car is as affordable as it is (once you see the mechanicals, you'll understand better). It's certainly still very presentable, as the overall luster and shine still attracts crowds of eager onlookers. In addition, there's plenty of shiny trim that looks good, including GT-style fog lamps up front, correct T5 badges, and 289 emblems on the front fenders. Nobody will be offended if you call this a Mustang, that's for sure.

A handsome tan interior was installed a few years ago and works well with the white paint, offering a classic, yet slightly different look for the familiar Ford. The seat covers, door panels, and all the other tan parts were new at that time, along with the color-matched steering wheel that still looks great. A modern center console was created to work with a modern B&M shifter and the familiar under-dash A/C system, and it all looks like it belongs there. With the goal being a reliable, comfortable daily-driver-capable early Mustang, it also got upgrades like an AM/FM/CD stereo system with speakers in the kick panels, a Rally Pak on the steering column, and a full set of Auto Meter gauges built into the original 5-hole GT gauge cluster. Color-matched floor mats protect the darker brown carpets and the trunk is protected by a reproduction mat that fits well. A tan top was installed recently with a luxurious look and feel and a crystal clear rear window.

Mechanically, this isn't merely a pleasant old pony, this is a thundering resto-mod that brings big power to the table. A 408 cubic inch stroker motor replaces the original 289, and it's a neat fit under the hood. The good stuff is inside, including an Eagle crank and rods, Mahle forged pistons, AFR aluminum heads, roller rockers, and an Edelbrock intake and Holley carb. It's dressed like a vintage performance engine with finned valve covers and a Cobra air cleaner, and the ancillaries around it are all about functionality: serpentine belt drive, MSD ignition, dual reservoir master cylinder, and an Optima battery. The stout stroker motor is backed by a built AOD 4-speed automatic transmission with 4r70w internals and TCI upgrades to make it reliable, and it feeds a 3.83-geared Lincoln Versailles rear end with disc brakes. It's all ferociously competent but docile enough to drive every day, and you'll never get tired of the bellow through the custom 2-inch exhaust system. Classic Magnum 500 wheels are a favorite Mustang look and they carry 235/60/14 Cooper radials.

A neat car with a bit of history behind it and a ton of money invested in making it not only reliable, but comfortable and outrageously fast. Now you see why we love this car. Call today!