Which Mustang is that?
Which Mustang is that? A fun and easy to read guide to know your Mustang Muscle.
The history of the mustang and which one everyone remembers, well this is easy. People do typically remember the first mustang made or at least that body style. This style ran for 2 official years however the first model was ready early and actually became know as the 64 1/2 whilst all the components weren’t yet full Mustang specification the car was ready in its full glory for launch in April 1964. The cars as it turned out where all marked as 1965 models and to the day make for great reading and debate particularly over the introduction of the fastback in the Summer of 64 as the official launch of the 1965 model and the introduction of the GT and the 3rd body type. No lets go back a few steps and cover of the Launch and how the 1964 Convertible and the 1964 Coupe (notchback) found there way to Dearborn for manufacturing almost six months ahead of the original plan.
The 1964 ½ as its become affectionately known can be identified most easily by its date code pre 31 July of 1964, this is when production of the 1965 model was then started (August 17th). The other traits include the engine options and the V8 standard was a 260ci not the 289ci that we all remember, but even in these early days the 289 was an option in the 4V configuration (4 barrel carburetor). So where did the controversy come in well, simply it’s the fact that they are all marked 1965 – even though the codes use to nominate the engines and colors where different, the other feature include generators not alternators used which also finds its way to the gauge with GEN being light up when a problem occurs under the hood on the item in question.
The additional controversy is then around the introduction of the fastback and the existence of some models know as “crossovers” these cars have all the hallmarks of a 1964 ½ car but according to ford simply don’t exist – “All Fastbacks are full 1965 models”.
In addition in 1965 the GT became available both as factory delivered or dealer installed options – this later and even more so now allows phase 1 mustangs with the appropriate engine options to be presented as genuine GTs without too much to be challenged at times (Buyer be ware). In 65 the Shelby Mustang become available and with thousands of them sold become an overnight hit both on the street and racetrack. Of course all engine where now standardizes he 289 for the V8s and the 200Ci for the sixes.
In many peoples eyes the 1966 is the most popular “the peoples award if you like”, whilst only subtle changes where made to the body styling they where very successful and liked by all. The GT continued as an option and the famous Hertz Shelby was borne. More color options for trim and exterior and a solid reputation on the street and track.
Once again while this original Mustang look and shape it is possibly the one most recognized. It has not found its way back as a retro style fit into the later models – I wonder when that will be?
Use the Highlighter