1965 Ford Mustang 289 Convertible (LHD)

Description

The original Ford Mustang, described by Ford as a ’64 1/2 ’ model was a huge hit when launched midway through 1964 in hardtop and convertible versions. One ingenious hot dog purveyor displayed a sandwich board reading ‘our hotcakes are selling like Mustangs’. Rivals quickly followed, including Chevrolet's Camaro and Dodge's Challenger and the term ‘pony car’ came into vogue. It all started with automotive visionary Lee Iacocca who, with his team, took inspiration for the Mustang production model from the Mustang 1 concept vehicle. Through clever use of existing Falcon underpinnings, the Mustang’s price was kept to affordable levels, while an incredible array of options, from drivetrain to trim levels, made it appealing to a wide spectrum of customers and especially to women. Ford hit on a winning formula with the first-generation Mustang and orders began flooding in, making this one of the most successful models in American automotive history. Ford wisely made few changes to the Mustang’s successful formula for 1965, the only major mechanical upgrade of note being improved electrics thanks to the adoption of an alternator in place of the original generator. A new fastback body style was added and the range of engine choices expanded, stretching from the base 170 cubic-inch six-cylinder to the fire-breathing Hi-Po 289 cubic-inch V8. Options like automatic transmission proved popular, while front disc brakes and a handling package could transform the Mustang from a boulevard cruiser into a car that performed well on the racetrack. The Mustang has since maintained its place as the pre-eminent muscle car amongst enthusiasts today and there are compelling reasons for buying one – parts are in plentiful supply, the cars are easy to work on and respond well to tuning.