1965 Ford Mustang

Description

Just as they were nearly 50 years ago, Mustangs are fast, fun, and affordable ways to get around. Traditional ponies like this 1965 coupe are a great way to own an icon without spending a ton of money, and when they carry a few clever updates, they make wonderful hobby vehicles that can still be enjoyed every day.

Seriously, if you could own a classic V8-powered Mustang coupe for less than the price of a new one with a V6 engine, why wouldn't you leap at the chance? Recently refinished, this glossy black coupe carries all the timeless design cues that put these cars at the top of every enthusiast's wish list. Bodywork is well done, the slick paint gives it a classic Mustang look, and everything lines up nicely. The line that runs along the tops of the fenders is as sharp as a crease in Don Draper's suit, and the paint is so deep that you're tempted to touch it and see if it sends out ripples. It's not a real GT, but does include some of the styling cues, including the rear valence with exhaust trumpets poking through it, and there's a hood scoop that gives it a bit of a Shelby look, too. All the chrome sparkles against the inky black paint, and goodies like the running pony emblem, '289' badges on the front fenders, and classic 3-element taillights are crisply restored. It's not a perfect car, but anyone seeing this one roll by is going to stop and stare.

Basic black upholstery makes the interior a fine place to spend some time. Replaced not very long ago, the seats are so properly upholstered and supportive, and the matching door panels are exact reproductions that look fantastic. The original gauges are in fantastic condition, with the usual trio of auxiliary dials underneath, since the factory really only offers speed and fuel level. The original AM radio is gone, replaced by an AM/FM stereo unit, and I've always liked the simplicity of the no-console look. Power steering is a desirable option, even on the lightweight Mustang and the three-spoke steering wheel that controls it has been wrapped in a thick black leather cover. Even the embroidered floor mats look right and help protect the fresh carpets, so this Mustang will look this good for years to come. A/C is a welcome sight, too, making this a great choice for weekend trips, especially since the trunk is neatly finished with spatter paint and a spare tire with correct cover.

Classic performance in a Mustang means only one thing: a snappy 289 cubic inch V8. This was originally a T-code 6-cylinder car, so the 289 and matching C4 3-speed automatic transmission were borrowed from a '68 Mustang. It's a perfect fit that looks right, and when your car runs this well, there's really no need for upgrades and modifications. There are perhaps 6000 miles on the rebuild and it uses a 2-barrel carburetor, so it's even reasonably thrifty. It fires easily and has a snarky V8 exhaust note thanks to a new Flowmaster dual exhaust system with proper trumpet tips. It's not detailed or too shiny underneath, but the brakes were recently rebuilt and we have to say that the floors look great. Late-model wheels from a 2013 Mustang California Special are a retro look and wear 245/40/18 front and 255/45/18 rear performance radials that look and fit better than most big wheels on an early pony.

We seem to be getting lucky with getting beautiful early Mustangs here at Streetside Classics, but don't wait for the next one, you need to put this lovely '65 coupe in your garage right away. Call now!