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Ford Mustang (first generation)
Encyclopedia
The first-generation Ford Mustang is the original pony car
, manufactured by Ford Motor Company
from 1964 until 1973.
It was initially introduced as a hardtop and convertible with the fastback version put on sale the following year. At the time of its introduction, the Mustang, sharing its underpinnings with the Falcon, was slotted into a compact car
segment.
With each revision, the Mustang saw an increase in overall dimensions and in engine power. As a result, by 1971, the Mustang had entered the muscle car
segment. After an initial surge, sales were steadily declining and Ford began working on a new generation Mustang. When the oil crisis hit in 1973, Ford was prepared, having already designed the smaller Mustang II. This car had no common components with preceding models.
's assistant general manager and chief engineer, Donald N. Frey
was the head engineer for the Mustang project — supervising the development of the Mustang in a record 18 months — while Iacocca himself championed the project as Ford Division general manager. The Mustang prototype was a two-seat, mid-mounted engine roadster
, styled in part by Phil Clark. Stylist John Najjar, in a 1984 interview with David R. Crippen, archivist of the Henry Ford Museum, spoke about the genesis of the two-seat prototype:
The Mustang I was later remodeled as a four-seat car styled under the direction of Project Design Chief Joe Oros
and his team of L. David Ash
, Gale Halderman, and John Foster — in Ford's Lincoln
–Mercury
Division design studios, which produced the winning design in an intramural design contest instigated by Iacocca.
The design team had been given five goals for the design of the Mustang:
it would seat four, have bucket seats and a floor mounted shifter, weigh no more than 2500 pounds and be no more than 180 inches in length, sell for less than $2500, and have multiple power, comfort and luxury options.
Having set the design standards for the Mustang, Oros said:
Oros added:
L. David Ash
is often credited with the actual styling of the Mustang. Ash, in a 1985 interview speaking of the origin of the Mustang design, when asked the degree of his contribution, said:
To decrease development costs, the Mustang used chassis
, suspension
, and drivetrain components derived from the Ford Falcon and Fairlane. It used a unitized platform-type frame from the 1964 Falcon, and welded box-section side rails, including welded crossmembers. Although hardtop Mustangs accounted for the highest sales, durability problems with the new frame led to the engineering of a convertible first, which ensured adequate stiffness. Overall length of the Mustang and Falcon was identical, although the Mustang's wheelbase
was slightly shorter. With an overall width of 68.2 inches (173 cm), it was 2.4 inches (6 cm) narrower, yet the wheel track was nearly identical. Shipping weight, approximately 2570 pounds (1,165.7 kg) with the straight six-cylinder engine, was also similar to the Falcon. A fully equipped V8
model weighed approximately 3000 pounds (1,360.8 kg). Although most of the mechanical parts were from the Falcon, the Mustang's body was completely different; sporting a shorter wheelbase, wider track, lower seating position and lower overall height. An industry first, the "torque box" was an innovative structural system that greatly stiffened the Mustang's construction and helped contribute to better handling.
s, the earliest Mustangs are widely referred to as the 1964½ model. A more accurate description is the "early 1965" model because it underwent significant changes at the beginning of the regular model year. All the early cars, however, were marketed by Ford as 1965 models. The low-end model hardtop used a "V-code" 170 CID straight-6
engine and three-speed manual transmission
and retailed for US$
2,368.
Several changes to the Mustang occurred at the start of the normal 1965 model year production, five months after its introduction. These cars are known as "late 65's," and were built after factory retooling in August 1964. The engine lineup was changed, with a 200 cu in (3.3 l) "T-code" engine that produced 120 hp. Production of the "L-code" 260 cu in (4.3 l) engine ceased when the 1964 model year ended. It was replaced with a new 200 hp "C-code" 289 cu in (4.7 l) engine with a two-barrel carburetor
as the base V8. An "A-code" 225 hp four-barrel carbureted version was next in line, followed by the unchanged "Hi-Po" "K-code" 271 hp 289. The DC electrical generator
was replaced by a new AC alternator
on all Fords (the quickest way to distinguish a 1964 from a 1965 is to see if the alternator light on the dash says "GEN" or "ALT"). The now-famous Mustang GT (Gran - Touring) was introduced as the "GT Equipment Package" and included a V8 engine
(most often the 225 hp 289), grille-mounted fog lamps, rocker panel stripes, and disc brakes. A four-barrel carbureted engine was now available with any body style. Additionally, reverse lights were an option added to the car in 1965. The Mustang was originally available as either a hardtop or convertible, but during the car's early design phases a fastback model was strongly considered. Also in 1965 Shelby Mustang
was born, it was available only in newly introduced fastback
body version with its swept-back rear glass and distinctive ventilation louvers.
The standard interior features of the 1965 Mustang included adjustable driver and passenger bucket seats, an AM radio, and a floor mounted shifter in a variety of color options. Ford added additional interior options during the 1965 model year. The Interior Decor Group was popularly known as "Pony Interior" due to the addition of embossed running ponies on the seat fronts, and also included integral armrests, woodgrain appliqué accents, and a round gauge cluster that would replace the standard Falcon instrumentation. Also available were sun visors, a (mechanical) remote-operated mirror, a floor console, and a bench seat. Ford later offered an under-dash air-conditioning unit, and discontinued the vinyl with cloth insert seat option, offered only in early 1965 models. One option designed strictly for fun was the Rally-Pac
. Introduced in 1963 after Ford's success at that year's Monte Carlo Rally
and available on other Ford and Mercury compacts and intermediates, the Rally-Pac was a combination clock and tachometer mounted to the steering column. It was available as a factory ordered item for US$69.30. Installed by a dealer, the Rally-Pac cost US$75.95. Reproductions are presently available from any number of Mustang restoration parts sources.
The 1966 Mustang debuted with moderate trim changes including a new grille, side ornamentation, wheel covers and gas cap. A cruisematic three-speed auto transmission became available for the 225-hp V8. The 289 "hipo" K code engine was offered with an automatic c4 transmission, it had stronger internals and a hipo automatic transmission can be identified by the outer casing of the servo is marked with a 'C'. The long duration solid-lifter camshaft that allowed the high revving 289 to make the horsepower it was known for, was not friendly for a non stall speed automatic torque converter. The "HiPo" could be spotted very easily by the 1 inches (25.4 mm) vibration damper, (as compared to 1/2 inch on the 225-hp version) the absence of a vacuum advance unit on the dual point distributor. With the valve covers off, there is a large letter "K" stamped between the valve springs, that along with screw in studs (vs. a pressed in stud for other 289's) for the adjustable rocker arms. A large number of new paint and interior color options, an AM
/eight-track sound system, and one of the first AM/FM
mono
automobile radios was also offered. It also removed the Falcon instrument cluster; the previously optional features, including the round gauges and padded sun visors, became standard equipment. The Mustang convertible would be the best-selling in 1966, with 72,119 sold, beating the number two Impala
by almost 2:1.
The 1965 and 1966 Mustangs are differentiated by variations in the exterior, despite similar design. These variations include the emblem on the quarter-panels behind the doors. In 1965 the emblem was a single vertical piece of chrome, while in 1966 the emblem was smaller in height and had three horizontal bars extending from the design, resembling an "E". The front intake grilles and ornaments were also different. The 1965 front grille used a "honeycomb" pattern, while the 1966 version was a "slotted" style. While both model years used the "Horse and Corral" emblem on the grille, the 1965 had four bars extending from each side of the corral, while on the 1966, these bars were removed. 1966 saw introduction of 'High Country Special' limited edition, 333 of them were sold in Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
When Ford wanted to introduce the Mustang in Germany
, they discovered that Krupp
company had already registered the name. The German company offered to sell the rights for US$10,000. Ford refused and removed the Mustang badge, instead naming it as T-5 (pre-production Mustang project name) for the German market until 1979 when Krupp copyrights expired.
. The overall size, interior and cargo space were increased. Exterior trim changes included concave taillights, side scoop (1967) and chrome (1968) side ornamentation, square rear-view mirrors, and usual yearly wheel and gas cap changes. The high-performance 289 option was placed behind the newer 320 hp 390 cu in (6.4 l) FE engine from the Ford Thunderbird
, which was equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. A 390 GT engine, and a 4-speed manual transmission
recorded quarter mile times of approximately 13 seconds and trap speeds of over 105 mph (169 km/h). During the mid-1968 model year, a drag racer for the street could be ordered with the optional 428 cu in (7 l) Cobra Jet engine which was officially rated at 335 hp all of these Mustangs were issued R codes on their VIN#'s.
The 1967 and 1968 models discontinued the "Pony Interior" in favor of a new deluxe interior package, which included special color options, brushed stainless steel (1967) or woodgrain (1968) trim, seat buttons, a tilt steering wheel, and special interior paneling. The 1968 models that were produced during 1968 were also the first year to incorporate 3 point lap belts as opposed to the standard lapbelts The air-conditioning option was fully integrated into the dash, the speakers and stereo were upgraded, and unique center and overhead consoles were options. The fastback model offered the option of a rear fold-down seat, and the convertible was available with folding glass windows. Gone too was the Rally-Pac, since the new instrument cluster had provisions for an optional tachometer and clock. Its size and shape also precluded the installation of the accessory atop the steering column.
The California Special Mustang
, or GT/CS, was visually based on the Shelby model and was only sold in Western states. Its sister, the 'High Country Special', was sold in Denver, Colorado
. While the GT/CS was only available as a coupe, the 'High Country Special' model was available in fastback and convertible configurations in 1966 and 1967 and only as a coupe in 1968.
The Mustang fastback gained popular culture status when used in the crime thriller Bullitt
(1968). Lt. Frank Bullitt, played by actor Steve McQueen
, drove a modified Highland Green 1968 Mustang GT fastback with 390 cu in (6.4 l) 4V engine, chasing two hitmen in a black 1968 Dodge Charger
in the film's car chase through the streets of San Francisco.
It featured a 302 cu in (5 l) V8 engine
with 220 hp. The 351cid V-8 was introduced in 1969, and was available with 250 or 290 hp. For those wanting more power, the 335-hp 428cid Cobra Jet V-8 big block was available with or without Ram-Air.
Car longer than previous models and sported convex rather than concave side panels. The new Mach 1
, with a variety of new powerplants, added many car styling and performance features. It used dual exhausts and steel wheels with bold-lettered Goodyear Polyglas tire
s. Reflective striping was placed along the body sides, with a pop-off gas cap, matte-black hood with simulated air scoop and NASCAR-style cable and pin tiedowns. A functional "shaker" hood scoop which visibly vibrated by being attached directly to the air cleaner through a hole in the hood was available, as were a tail-mounted wing and chin spoilers and rear window louvered blackout shade. The Boss 302 Mustang
was created to meet Trans Am rules and the Boss 429
was created to homologate that engine for NASCAR use, it featured distinctive hockey-stick stripes. Also for the first time Grande appeared - it was deluxe trim available for hardtop only. Fastback body version was renamed Sportsroof.
The 1970 model moved the headlamps inside the grille opening, added vent looking front corners on the outside of the headlamps, and removed the rear fender air scoops.
In 1969 Ford introduced (it was conceived by Ford) new Shelby Mustang
, it was drastically different looking than serial Mustang. There were two models; GT-350 and GT-500, offered as sportsroof and convertible. All 1969–1970 Shelby Mustangs were produced in 1969 as sales were falling down and 789 remaining 1969 cars were titled as 1970 models. They had modified front air dam and a blackout point treatment around the hood scoops.
Ford made 96 'Mustang Twister Special' cars for Kansas Ford dealers in 1970. The Twister Specials were Grabber Orange Mach 1's with special decals. Ford also made a few 'Sidewinders', which were built in Dearborn, shipped to Omaha, and sold in Iowa and Nebraska. They were available in Grabber Green, Grabber Blue, Calypso Corral, and Yellow. The stripes came in the trunk to be installed by dealers.
As before there were three body styles; hardtop, sportsroof and convertible.
On hardtops there was 'Grande' trim offered, it was meant as an luxury version. Sportsroof models were performance oriented, as it was only body version with 'Mach 1' option available, which was distinguishable by decals, hood with scoops (nonfunctional in most models), color keyed; side mirrors, strip on the edge of the front fenders and hood, urethane front bumper and grille with 'sportlights'. Cars equipped with 'Boss' engine had appearance of Mach 1 package, excluding front bumper, which was chrome. Convertible was equipped with a power top, a glass rear window, and tinted windshield standard. It was last Mustang available as a convertible until 1983.
There were no significant changes in appearance during 1971–1973 model years, 1973 however brought some mild restyling. Front bumpers in 'Base' and 'Grande' and Urethane in 'Mach 1' were all replaced by new Urethane one of new design to comply with new regulations. Thus turn signals were moved from underneath it to inside of the grille next to the headlights. Because of those changes horizontal grille 'sportlights' seen in 1971–1972 'Mach 1' were discontinued as new vertical blinkers took they place. New rear bumpers were introduced too. Also in 1973 new design of decals for the 'Mach 1' has been introduced, 'hockey stick' side stripes of 1971–1972 were still available on the 'Exterior Decor Group'. Magnum 500 wheels has been discontinued for 1973 and replaced with forged aluminum wheels.
1971–1973 Mach 1 has become famous thanks to the appearances in the films Diamonds Are Forever
(1971) and Gone in 60 Seconds
(1974).
For 1972 Ford prepared special model called 'Sprint' it was meant to commemorate USA participation in 1972 Olympic Games
. It consisted of special decals, color keyed front bumper, mirrors and grille taken from Mach 1. Performance suspension and wheels were also available.
There was no Shelby version of 1971–1973 Mustangs, save for the 'Shelby de Mexico GT-351', by Mexican dealer and very limited edition 'Shelby Europa', sold in Europe by private importer request to Shelby Motors.
; Dearborn, Michigan
; and Metuchen, New Jersey
produced almost 1.5 million Mustangs.
unprepared and Chrysler Corporation slightly less so. Chrysler introduced the Plymouth Barracuda
a few weeks before the Mustang, and although it was later redesigned as a distinct "pony car", it was initially a modified Plymouth Valiant
. However, the "fish car" did not enjoy as strong a market demand as Ford's "pony". General Motors executives thought the rear-engined Chevrolet Corvair Monza
would compete against the Mustang, but it also sold poorly by comparison. The Monza performed well, but lacked a V8 engine and its reputation was tarnished by Ralph Nader
in his book Unsafe At Any Speed
. It took GM until the 1967 model year to counter with the Chevrolet Camaro
and Pontiac Firebird
. Lincoln
-Mercury joined the competition in 1967 with the Mercury Cougar
, an "upmarket Mustang" and subsequent Motor Trend Car of the Year. In 1968, American Motors
(AMC) introduced the Javelin
, an "image changing" four-place pony car. This "real standout" model was quickly followed with "a Walter Mitty
Ferrari," the two-seater high-performance AMX
. In 1970, the Dodge Challenger
, a version of the Plymouth Barracuda platform
, was last to join the pony car race. This genre of small, sporty automobiles is often referred to as the "pony car
" because of the Ford Mustang that established this market segment.
Pony car
Pony car is an American class of automobile launched and inspired by the Ford Mustang in 1964. The term describes an affordable, compact, highly styled car with a sporty or performance-oriented image.-Origins of the breed:...
, manufactured by Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company is an American multinational automaker based in Dearborn, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. The automaker was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903. In addition to the Ford and Lincoln brands, Ford also owns a small stake in Mazda in Japan and Aston Martin in the UK...
from 1964 until 1973.
It was initially introduced as a hardtop and convertible with the fastback version put on sale the following year. At the time of its introduction, the Mustang, sharing its underpinnings with the Falcon, was slotted into a compact car
Compact car
A compact car , or small family car , is a classification of cars which are larger than a supermini but smaller than or equal to a mid-size car...
segment.
With each revision, the Mustang saw an increase in overall dimensions and in engine power. As a result, by 1971, the Mustang had entered the muscle car
Muscle car
Muscle car is a term used to refer to a variety of high-performance automobiles. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines muscle cars as "any of a group of American-made 2-door sports coupes with powerful engines designed for high-performance driving." Usually, a large V8 engine is fitted in a...
segment. After an initial surge, sales were steadily declining and Ford began working on a new generation Mustang. When the oil crisis hit in 1973, Ford was prepared, having already designed the smaller Mustang II. This car had no common components with preceding models.
Conception and styling
As Lee IacoccaLee Iacocca
Lido Anthony "Lee" Iacocca is an American businessman known for engineering the Mustang, the unsuccessful Ford Pinto, being fired from Ford Motor Company, and his revival of the Chrysler Corporation in the 1980s...
's assistant general manager and chief engineer, Donald N. Frey
Donald N. Frey
Donald Nelson Frey , was widely known as the Ford Motor Company product manager who, along with Lee Iacocca and others, developed the Ford Mustang into a viable project — and who ultimately supervised the development of the car in a record 18 months.At times besieged by autograph seekers for...
was the head engineer for the Mustang project — supervising the development of the Mustang in a record 18 months — while Iacocca himself championed the project as Ford Division general manager. The Mustang prototype was a two-seat, mid-mounted engine roadster
Roadster
A roadster is a two-seat open car with emphasis on sporty handling and without a fixed roof or side weather protection. Strictly speaking a roadster with wind-up windows is a convertible but as true roadsters are no longer made the distinction is now irrelevant...
, styled in part by Phil Clark. Stylist John Najjar, in a 1984 interview with David R. Crippen, archivist of the Henry Ford Museum, spoke about the genesis of the two-seat prototype:
The Mustang I was later remodeled as a four-seat car styled under the direction of Project Design Chief Joe Oros
Joe Oros
Joseph E. Oros was an automobile stylist for Ford Motor Company over a period of 21 years — known as the Chief Designer of the team at Ford that styled the original Mustang, and for his contributions to the 1955 Ford Thunderbird.Oros was born to non-English speaking Romanian parents...
and his team of L. David Ash
L. David Ash
L. David Ash was an automotive stylist who worked variously in the Lincoln, Continental, Edsel and Ford studios at Ford Motor Company. He is known for his contributions to the styling of the Ford Mustang, Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln Continental Mark III — and his innovative work on the...
, Gale Halderman, and John Foster — in Ford's Lincoln
Lincoln (automobile)
Lincoln is an American luxury vehicle brand of the Ford Motor Company. Lincoln vehicles are sold mostly in North America.-History:The company was founded in August 1915 by Henry M. Leland, one of the founders of Cadillac . During World War I, he left Cadillac which was sold to General Motors...
–Mercury
Mercury (automobile)
Mercury was an automobile marque of the Ford Motor Company launched in 1938 by Edsel Ford, son of Henry Ford, to market entry-level luxury cars slotted between Ford-branded regular models and Lincoln-branded luxury vehicles, similar to General Motors' Buick brand, and Chrysler's namesake brand...
Division design studios, which produced the winning design in an intramural design contest instigated by Iacocca.
The design team had been given five goals for the design of the Mustang:
it would seat four, have bucket seats and a floor mounted shifter, weigh no more than 2500 pounds and be no more than 180 inches in length, sell for less than $2500, and have multiple power, comfort and luxury options.
Having set the design standards for the Mustang, Oros said:
Oros added:
L. David Ash
L. David Ash
L. David Ash was an automotive stylist who worked variously in the Lincoln, Continental, Edsel and Ford studios at Ford Motor Company. He is known for his contributions to the styling of the Ford Mustang, Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln Continental Mark III — and his innovative work on the...
is often credited with the actual styling of the Mustang. Ash, in a 1985 interview speaking of the origin of the Mustang design, when asked the degree of his contribution, said:
To decrease development costs, the Mustang used chassis
Chassis
A chassis consists of an internal framework that supports a man-made object. It is analogous to an animal's skeleton. An example of a chassis is the underpart of a motor vehicle, consisting of the frame with the wheels and machinery.- Vehicles :In the case of vehicles, the term chassis means the...
, suspension
Suspension (vehicle)
Suspension is the term given to the system of springs, shock absorbers and linkages that connects a vehicle to its wheels. Suspension systems serve a dual purpose — contributing to the car's roadholding/handling and braking for good active safety and driving pleasure, and keeping vehicle occupants...
, and drivetrain components derived from the Ford Falcon and Fairlane. It used a unitized platform-type frame from the 1964 Falcon, and welded box-section side rails, including welded crossmembers. Although hardtop Mustangs accounted for the highest sales, durability problems with the new frame led to the engineering of a convertible first, which ensured adequate stiffness. Overall length of the Mustang and Falcon was identical, although the Mustang's wheelbase
Wheelbase
In both road and rail vehicles, the wheelbase is the distance between the centers of the front and rear wheels.- Road :In automobiles, the wheelbase is the horizontal distance between the center of the front wheel and the center of the rear wheel...
was slightly shorter. With an overall width of 68.2 inches (173 cm), it was 2.4 inches (6 cm) narrower, yet the wheel track was nearly identical. Shipping weight, approximately 2570 pounds (1,165.7 kg) with the straight six-cylinder engine, was also similar to the Falcon. A fully equipped V8
V8 engine
A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
model weighed approximately 3000 pounds (1,360.8 kg). Although most of the mechanical parts were from the Falcon, the Mustang's body was completely different; sporting a shorter wheelbase, wider track, lower seating position and lower overall height. An industry first, the "torque box" was an innovative structural system that greatly stiffened the Mustang's construction and helped contribute to better handling.
1964–1966
Since it was introduced five months before the normal start of the production year and manufactured among 1964 Ford Falcons and 1964 Mercury CometMercury Comet
The Mercury Comet is an automobile produced by the Mercury division of the Ford Motor Company from 1960–1969 and 1971-1977 — variously as either a compact or an intermediate car.The Comet was based on the compact Ford Falcon and later the Ford Maverick...
s, the earliest Mustangs are widely referred to as the 1964½ model. A more accurate description is the "early 1965" model because it underwent significant changes at the beginning of the regular model year. All the early cars, however, were marketed by Ford as 1965 models. The low-end model hardtop used a "V-code" 170 CID straight-6
Straight-6
The straight-six engine or inline-six engine is a six-cylinder internal combustion engine with all six cylinders mounted in a straight line along the crankcase...
engine and three-speed manual transmission
Manual transmission
A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
and retailed for US$
United States dollar
The United States dollar , also referred to as the American dollar, is the official currency of the United States of America. It is divided into 100 smaller units called cents or pennies....
2,368.
Several changes to the Mustang occurred at the start of the normal 1965 model year production, five months after its introduction. These cars are known as "late 65's," and were built after factory retooling in August 1964. The engine lineup was changed, with a 200 cu in (3.3 l) "T-code" engine that produced 120 hp. Production of the "L-code" 260 cu in (4.3 l) engine ceased when the 1964 model year ended. It was replaced with a new 200 hp "C-code" 289 cu in (4.7 l) engine with a two-barrel carburetor
Carburetor
A carburetor , carburettor, or carburetter is a device that blends air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. It is sometimes shortened to carb in North America and the United Kingdom....
as the base V8. An "A-code" 225 hp four-barrel carbureted version was next in line, followed by the unchanged "Hi-Po" "K-code" 271 hp 289. The DC electrical generator
Electrical generator
In electricity generation, an electric generator is a device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy. A generator forces electric charge to flow through an external electrical circuit. It is analogous to a water pump, which causes water to flow...
was replaced by a new AC alternator
Alternator
An alternator is an electromechanical device that converts mechanical energy to electrical energy in the form of alternating current.Most alternators use a rotating magnetic field but linear alternators are occasionally used...
on all Fords (the quickest way to distinguish a 1964 from a 1965 is to see if the alternator light on the dash says "GEN" or "ALT"). The now-famous Mustang GT (Gran - Touring) was introduced as the "GT Equipment Package" and included a V8 engine
V8 engine
A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
(most often the 225 hp 289), grille-mounted fog lamps, rocker panel stripes, and disc brakes. A four-barrel carbureted engine was now available with any body style. Additionally, reverse lights were an option added to the car in 1965. The Mustang was originally available as either a hardtop or convertible, but during the car's early design phases a fastback model was strongly considered. Also in 1965 Shelby Mustang
Shelby Mustang
The Shelby Mustang is a high performance variant of the Ford Mustang which was built by Shelby American from 1965 through 1970. Following the introduction of the fifth generation Ford Mustang, the Shelby nameplate was revived in 2007 for new high performance versions of the Mustang.- 1965–1966 :The...
was born, it was available only in newly introduced fastback
Fastback
A fastback is a car body style whose roofline slopes continuously down at the back. The word can also designate the car itself. The style is seen on two-door coupés as well as four-door sedans.-History:...
body version with its swept-back rear glass and distinctive ventilation louvers.
The standard interior features of the 1965 Mustang included adjustable driver and passenger bucket seats, an AM radio, and a floor mounted shifter in a variety of color options. Ford added additional interior options during the 1965 model year. The Interior Decor Group was popularly known as "Pony Interior" due to the addition of embossed running ponies on the seat fronts, and also included integral armrests, woodgrain appliqué accents, and a round gauge cluster that would replace the standard Falcon instrumentation. Also available were sun visors, a (mechanical) remote-operated mirror, a floor console, and a bench seat. Ford later offered an under-dash air-conditioning unit, and discontinued the vinyl with cloth insert seat option, offered only in early 1965 models. One option designed strictly for fun was the Rally-Pac
Rally-Pac
Rally-Pac is the name given to an optional tachometer and clock fitted to certain car models built by the Ford Motor Company in the mid-1960s....
. Introduced in 1963 after Ford's success at that year's Monte Carlo Rally
Monte Carlo Rally
The Monte Carlo Rally or Rally Monte Carlo is a rallying event organised each year by the Automobile Club de Monaco which also organises the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix and the Rallye Monte-Carlo Historique. The rally takes place along the French Riviera in the Principality of Monaco and...
and available on other Ford and Mercury compacts and intermediates, the Rally-Pac was a combination clock and tachometer mounted to the steering column. It was available as a factory ordered item for US$69.30. Installed by a dealer, the Rally-Pac cost US$75.95. Reproductions are presently available from any number of Mustang restoration parts sources.
The 1966 Mustang debuted with moderate trim changes including a new grille, side ornamentation, wheel covers and gas cap. A cruisematic three-speed auto transmission became available for the 225-hp V8. The 289 "hipo" K code engine was offered with an automatic c4 transmission, it had stronger internals and a hipo automatic transmission can be identified by the outer casing of the servo is marked with a 'C'. The long duration solid-lifter camshaft that allowed the high revving 289 to make the horsepower it was known for, was not friendly for a non stall speed automatic torque converter. The "HiPo" could be spotted very easily by the 1 inches (25.4 mm) vibration damper, (as compared to 1/2 inch on the 225-hp version) the absence of a vacuum advance unit on the dual point distributor. With the valve covers off, there is a large letter "K" stamped between the valve springs, that along with screw in studs (vs. a pressed in stud for other 289's) for the adjustable rocker arms. A large number of new paint and interior color options, an AM
Amplitude modulation
Amplitude modulation is a technique used in electronic communication, most commonly for transmitting information via a radio carrier wave. AM works by varying the strength of the transmitted signal in relation to the information being sent...
/eight-track sound system, and one of the first AM/FM
FM broadcasting
FM broadcasting is a broadcasting technology pioneered by Edwin Howard Armstrong which uses frequency modulation to provide high-fidelity sound over broadcast radio. The term "FM band" describes the "frequency band in which FM is used for broadcasting"...
mono
Monaural
Monaural or monophonic sound reproduction is single-channel. Typically there is only one microphone, one loudspeaker, or channels are fed from a common signal path...
automobile radios was also offered. It also removed the Falcon instrument cluster; the previously optional features, including the round gauges and padded sun visors, became standard equipment. The Mustang convertible would be the best-selling in 1966, with 72,119 sold, beating the number two Impala
Chevrolet Impala
The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size automobile built by the Chevrolet division of General Motors introduced for the 1958 model year. Deriving its name from the southern African antelope, Chevrolet's most expensive passenger model through 1965 had become the best-selling automobile in the United...
by almost 2:1.
The 1965 and 1966 Mustangs are differentiated by variations in the exterior, despite similar design. These variations include the emblem on the quarter-panels behind the doors. In 1965 the emblem was a single vertical piece of chrome, while in 1966 the emblem was smaller in height and had three horizontal bars extending from the design, resembling an "E". The front intake grilles and ornaments were also different. The 1965 front grille used a "honeycomb" pattern, while the 1966 version was a "slotted" style. While both model years used the "Horse and Corral" emblem on the grille, the 1965 had four bars extending from each side of the corral, while on the 1966, these bars were removed. 1966 saw introduction of 'High Country Special' limited edition, 333 of them were sold in Colorado, Wyoming, and Nebraska.
When Ford wanted to introduce the Mustang in Germany
Germany
Germany , officially the Federal Republic of Germany , is a federal parliamentary republic in Europe. The country consists of 16 states while the capital and largest city is Berlin. Germany covers an area of 357,021 km2 and has a largely temperate seasonal climate...
, they discovered that Krupp
Krupp
The Krupp family , a prominent 400-year-old German dynasty from Essen, have become famous for their steel production and for their manufacture of ammunition and armaments. The family business, known as Friedrich Krupp AG Hoesch-Krupp, was the largest company in Europe at the beginning of the 20th...
company had already registered the name. The German company offered to sell the rights for US$10,000. Ford refused and removed the Mustang badge, instead naming it as T-5 (pre-production Mustang project name) for the German market until 1979 when Krupp copyrights expired.
Engines
| engine displacement Engine displacement Engine displacement is the volume swept by all the pistons inside the cylinders of an internal combustion engine in a single movement from top dead centre to bottom dead centre . It is commonly specified in cubic centimeters , litres , or cubic inches... , type Engine configuration Engine configuration is an engineering term for the layout of the major components of a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine. These components are the cylinders and crankshafts in particular but also, sometimes, the camshaft.... , carburetor Carburetor A carburetor , carburettor, or carburetter is a device that blends air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. It is sometimes shortened to carb in North America and the United Kingdom.... type | max. motive Motive power In thermodynamics, motive power is an agency, as water or steam, used to impart motion. Generally, motive power is defined as a natural agent, as water, steam, wind, electricity, etc., used to impart motion to machinery; a motor; a mover. The term may also define something, as a locomotive or a... power Power (physics) In physics, power is the rate at which energy is transferred, used, or transformed. For example, the rate at which a light bulb transforms electrical energy into heat and light is measured in watts—the more wattage, the more power, or equivalently the more electrical energy is used per unit... at rpm Revolutions per minute Revolutions per minute is a measure of the frequency of a rotation. It annotates the number of full rotations completed in one minute around a fixed axis... | max. torque Torque Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist.... at rpm |
|---|---|---|
| 170 cu in (2.8 l) Thriftpower I6 (1964) 1-barrel |
105 bhp @ 4,400 |
156 lbft @ 2,400 |
| 200 cu in (3.3 l) Thriftpower I6 (1965–1966) 1-barrel |
120 bhp @ 4,400 |
190 lbft @ 2,400 |
| 260 cu in (4.3 l) Windsor V8 V8 engine A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft.... (1964) 2-barrel |
164 bhp @ 4,400 |
258 lbft @ 2,200 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor V8 (1965–1966) 2-barrel |
200 bhp @ 4,400 |
282 lbft @ 2,400 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor V8 (1964) 4-barrel |
210 bhp @ 4,400 |
300 lbft @ 2,800 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor V8 (1965–1966) 4-barrel |
225 bhp @ 4,800 |
305 lbft @ 3,200 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor HiPo V8 (1964–1966) 4-barrel |
271 bhp @ 6,000 |
312 lbft @ 3,400 |
1967–1968
The 1967 model year Mustang was the first model to feature a major redesign with the installation of a big-block V8 engineV8 engine
A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
. The overall size, interior and cargo space were increased. Exterior trim changes included concave taillights, side scoop (1967) and chrome (1968) side ornamentation, square rear-view mirrors, and usual yearly wheel and gas cap changes. The high-performance 289 option was placed behind the newer 320 hp 390 cu in (6.4 l) FE engine from the Ford Thunderbird
Ford Thunderbird
The Thunderbird , is an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company in the United States over eleven model generations from 1955 through 2005...
, which was equipped with a four-barrel carburetor. A 390 GT engine, and a 4-speed manual transmission
Manual transmission
A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
recorded quarter mile times of approximately 13 seconds and trap speeds of over 105 mph (169 km/h). During the mid-1968 model year, a drag racer for the street could be ordered with the optional 428 cu in (7 l) Cobra Jet engine which was officially rated at 335 hp all of these Mustangs were issued R codes on their VIN#'s.
The 1967 and 1968 models discontinued the "Pony Interior" in favor of a new deluxe interior package, which included special color options, brushed stainless steel (1967) or woodgrain (1968) trim, seat buttons, a tilt steering wheel, and special interior paneling. The 1968 models that were produced during 1968 were also the first year to incorporate 3 point lap belts as opposed to the standard lapbelts The air-conditioning option was fully integrated into the dash, the speakers and stereo were upgraded, and unique center and overhead consoles were options. The fastback model offered the option of a rear fold-down seat, and the convertible was available with folding glass windows. Gone too was the Rally-Pac, since the new instrument cluster had provisions for an optional tachometer and clock. Its size and shape also precluded the installation of the accessory atop the steering column.
The California Special Mustang
California Special Mustang
In mid-February 1968, the California Ford Dealers began to market a factory-built, limited-edition Mustang, called the GT/CS, or "California Special". The hope was for a targeted production run of 5,000, but actually, 4118 were made, which included 251 units that were remarketed in Denver,...
, or GT/CS, was visually based on the Shelby model and was only sold in Western states. Its sister, the 'High Country Special', was sold in Denver, Colorado
Denver, Colorado
The City and County of Denver is the capital and the most populous city of the U.S. state of Colorado. Denver is a consolidated city-county, located in the South Platte River Valley on the western edge of the High Plains just east of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains...
. While the GT/CS was only available as a coupe, the 'High Country Special' model was available in fastback and convertible configurations in 1966 and 1967 and only as a coupe in 1968.
The Mustang fastback gained popular culture status when used in the crime thriller Bullitt
Bullitt
Bullitt is a 1968 American police procedural film starring Steve McQueen, Jacqueline Bisset and Robert Vaughn. It was directed by Peter Yates and distributed by Warner Bros. The story was adapted for the screen by Alan Trustman and Harry Kleiner, based on the 1963 novel Mute Witness by Robert L....
(1968). Lt. Frank Bullitt, played by actor Steve McQueen
Steve McQueen
Terrence Steven "Steve" McQueen was an American movie actor. He was nicknamed "The King of Cool." His "anti-hero" persona, which he developed at the height of the Vietnam counterculture, made him one of the top box-office draws of the 1960s and 1970s. McQueen received an Academy Award nomination...
, drove a modified Highland Green 1968 Mustang GT fastback with 390 cu in (6.4 l) 4V engine, chasing two hitmen in a black 1968 Dodge Charger
Dodge Charger (B-body)
The Dodge Charger was a mid-size automobile produced by Dodge. The 1966-1974 Chargers were based on the Chrysler B platform. The 1975-1978 Chargers were based on the Chrysler Cordoba.-Origin of the Charger:...
in the film's car chase through the streets of San Francisco.
Engines
| engine displacement Engine displacement Engine displacement is the volume swept by all the pistons inside the cylinders of an internal combustion engine in a single movement from top dead centre to bottom dead centre . It is commonly specified in cubic centimeters , litres , or cubic inches... , type Engine configuration Engine configuration is an engineering term for the layout of the major components of a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine. These components are the cylinders and crankshafts in particular but also, sometimes, the camshaft.... , carburetor Carburetor A carburetor , carburettor, or carburetter is a device that blends air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. It is sometimes shortened to carb in North America and the United Kingdom.... type | max. motive Motive power In thermodynamics, motive power is an agency, as water or steam, used to impart motion. Generally, motive power is defined as a natural agent, as water, steam, wind, electricity, etc., used to impart motion to machinery; a motor; a mover. The term may also define something, as a locomotive or a... power Power (physics) In physics, power is the rate at which energy is transferred, used, or transformed. For example, the rate at which a light bulb transforms electrical energy into heat and light is measured in watts—the more wattage, the more power, or equivalently the more electrical energy is used per unit... at rpm Revolutions per minute Revolutions per minute is a measure of the frequency of a rotation. It annotates the number of full rotations completed in one minute around a fixed axis... | max. torque Torque Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist.... at rpm |
|---|---|---|
| 200 cu in (3.3 l) Thriftpower I6 (1968) 1-barrel |
115 bhp @ 4,400 |
190 lbft @ 2,400 |
| 200 cu in (3.3 l) Thriftpower I6 (1967) 1-barrel |
120 bhp @ 4,400 |
190 lbft @ 2,400 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor V8 V8 engine A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft.... (1968) 2-barrel |
195 bhp @ 4,600 |
288 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor V8 (1967) 2-barrel |
200 bhp @ 4,400 |
282 lbft @ 2,400 |
| 302 cu in (5 l) Windsor V8 (1968) 2-barrel |
210 bhp @ 4,600 |
300 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor V8 (1967) 4-barrel |
225 bhp @ 4,800 |
305 lbft @ 3,200 |
| 302 cu in (5 l) Windsor V8 (1968) 4-barrel |
230 bhp @ 4,800 |
310 lbft @ 2,800 |
| 289 cu in (4.7 l) Windsor HiPo V8 (1964–1966) 4-barrel |
271 bhp @ 6,000 |
312 lbft @ 3,400 |
| 390 cu in (6.4 l) FE V8 (1968) 2-barrel |
280 bhp @ 4,400 |
|
| 390 cu in (6.4 l) FE V8 (1967) 4-barrel |
320 bhp @ 4,800 |
427 lbft @ 3,200 |
| 390 cu in (6.4 l) FE V8 (1968) 4-barrel |
325 bhp @ 4,800 |
427 lbft @ 3,200 |
| 428 cu in (7 l) Cobra Jet & Super Cobra Jet V8 (1968) 4-barrel |
335 bhp @ 5,200 |
440 lbft @ 3,400 |
| 427 cu in (7 l) FE HiPo V8 (1968) 4-barrel |
390 bhp @ 5,600 |
460 lbft @ 3,200 |
1969–1970
The 1969 restyle increased body length by 3.8 inches (96.5 mm) (with the wheelbase remaining at 108 inches) and width by almost half an inch. This was the first model to use quad headlamps placed inside and outside the grille opening. The corralled grille pony was replaced with the pony and tribars logo, set off-center to the drivers side.It featured a 302 cu in (5 l) V8 engine
V8 engine
A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft....
with 220 hp. The 351cid V-8 was introduced in 1969, and was available with 250 or 290 hp. For those wanting more power, the 335-hp 428cid Cobra Jet V-8 big block was available with or without Ram-Air.
Car longer than previous models and sported convex rather than concave side panels. The new Mach 1
Ford Mustang Mach 1
The Ford Mustang Mach 1 was a performance model of the Ford Mustang that Ford produced beginning in 1969. The original production run of the Mach 1 ended in 1979 because the Mustang II coupe was being phased out in favor of newer Mustangs on the Fox body platform.The Mach 1 returned in 2003 as a...
, with a variety of new powerplants, added many car styling and performance features. It used dual exhausts and steel wheels with bold-lettered Goodyear Polyglas tire
Goodyear Polyglas tire
The Goodyear Polyglas tire is a trademark of Goodyear. It was the name of a bias belted tire introduced in 1967 which generally had a wider tread than most other tires on the market at the time and used belts made of fiberglass...
s. Reflective striping was placed along the body sides, with a pop-off gas cap, matte-black hood with simulated air scoop and NASCAR-style cable and pin tiedowns. A functional "shaker" hood scoop which visibly vibrated by being attached directly to the air cleaner through a hole in the hood was available, as were a tail-mounted wing and chin spoilers and rear window louvered blackout shade. The Boss 302 Mustang
Boss 302 Mustang
The Boss 302 Mustang is a high performance variant of the Ford Mustang originally produced in 1969 and 1970, but revived in the 2012 model year. It was produced for the Trans Am racing series, while the Mustang Boss 429 which was produced the same years was built around a larger engine.-First...
was created to meet Trans Am rules and the Boss 429
Boss 429
The Boss 429 was a high performance Ford Mustang variant offered in 1969 and 1970.-Overview:The Boss 429 is arguably one of the rarest and most valued muscle cars to date. In total there were 859 original Boss 429s made. The origin of the Boss 429 comes about as a result of NASCAR...
was created to homologate that engine for NASCAR use, it featured distinctive hockey-stick stripes. Also for the first time Grande appeared - it was deluxe trim available for hardtop only. Fastback body version was renamed Sportsroof.
The 1970 model moved the headlamps inside the grille opening, added vent looking front corners on the outside of the headlamps, and removed the rear fender air scoops.
In 1969 Ford introduced (it was conceived by Ford) new Shelby Mustang
Shelby Mustang
The Shelby Mustang is a high performance variant of the Ford Mustang which was built by Shelby American from 1965 through 1970. Following the introduction of the fifth generation Ford Mustang, the Shelby nameplate was revived in 2007 for new high performance versions of the Mustang.- 1965–1966 :The...
, it was drastically different looking than serial Mustang. There were two models; GT-350 and GT-500, offered as sportsroof and convertible. All 1969–1970 Shelby Mustangs were produced in 1969 as sales were falling down and 789 remaining 1969 cars were titled as 1970 models. They had modified front air dam and a blackout point treatment around the hood scoops.
Ford made 96 'Mustang Twister Special' cars for Kansas Ford dealers in 1970. The Twister Specials were Grabber Orange Mach 1's with special decals. Ford also made a few 'Sidewinders', which were built in Dearborn, shipped to Omaha, and sold in Iowa and Nebraska. They were available in Grabber Green, Grabber Blue, Calypso Corral, and Yellow. The stripes came in the trunk to be installed by dealers.
Engines
| engine displacement Engine displacement Engine displacement is the volume swept by all the pistons inside the cylinders of an internal combustion engine in a single movement from top dead centre to bottom dead centre . It is commonly specified in cubic centimeters , litres , or cubic inches... , type Engine configuration Engine configuration is an engineering term for the layout of the major components of a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine. These components are the cylinders and crankshafts in particular but also, sometimes, the camshaft.... , carburetor Carburetor A carburetor , carburettor, or carburetter is a device that blends air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. It is sometimes shortened to carb in North America and the United Kingdom.... type | max. motive Motive power In thermodynamics, motive power is an agency, as water or steam, used to impart motion. Generally, motive power is defined as a natural agent, as water, steam, wind, electricity, etc., used to impart motion to machinery; a motor; a mover. The term may also define something, as a locomotive or a... power Power (physics) In physics, power is the rate at which energy is transferred, used, or transformed. For example, the rate at which a light bulb transforms electrical energy into heat and light is measured in watts—the more wattage, the more power, or equivalently the more electrical energy is used per unit... at rpm Revolutions per minute Revolutions per minute is a measure of the frequency of a rotation. It annotates the number of full rotations completed in one minute around a fixed axis... | max. torque Torque Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist.... at rpm |
|---|---|---|
| 200 cu in (3.3 l) Thriftpower I6 (1970) 1-barrel |
120 bhp @ 4,400 |
190 lbft @ 2,900 |
| 250 cu in (4.1 l) Thriftpower I6 (1969–1970) 1-barrel |
155 bhp @ 4,000 |
240 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 302 cu in (5 l) Windsor V8 V8 engine A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft.... (1969–1970) 2-barrel |
210 bhp @ 4,600 |
300 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Windsor V8 (1969–1970) 4-barrel |
250 bhp @ 5,600 |
355 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cleveland Ford 335 engine The Ford 335 engine family were a group of small-block V8 engines built by the Ford Motor Company between 1970 and 1985. The significance of the Numerals '335' designated to this series of Small block Ford V8 engines is relatively unknown... V8 (1969) 4-barrel |
290 bhp @ 4,800 |
385 lbft @ 3,600 |
| 302 cu in (5 l) Boss Ford Boss 302 engine The Boss 302 engine is a high-performance small-block V8 from Ford Motor Company. It was a hybrid of small-block Ford V8s - It used the block of the small Ford Windsor engine and the heads of the larger Ford Cleveland engine... V8 (1969–1970) 4-barrel |
290 bhp @ 5,800 |
290 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 390 cu in (6.4 l) FE V8 (1969) 4-barrel |
320 bhp @ 4,800 |
427 lbft @ 3,200 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cleveland V8 (1970) 4-barrel |
300 bhp @ 5,400 |
385 lbft @ 3,400 |
| 428 cu in (7 l) Cobra Jet & Super Cobra Jet V8 (1969–1970) 4-barrel |
335 bhp @ 5,200 |
440 lbft @ 3,400 |
| 429 cu in (7 l) Boss Ford 385 engine The Ford 385 engine family was the Ford Motor Company's final big block V8 engine design, replacing the Ford MEL engine and gradually superseding the Ford FE engine family... V8 (1969–1970) 4-barrel |
375 bhp @ 5,200 |
450 lbft @ 3,400 |
1971–1973
The Mustang became larger and heavier with each revision, culminating with the 1971 to 1973 models designed under the supervision of Ford's new product design manager, Semon "Bunkie" Knudsen, originally of General Motors. Introduced in September 1970 Mustang MY 1971 saw the last high-performance big-block Mustang, 375 hp 429 Super Cobra Jet. The body style designed for the purpose of big-block installation versions was limited to a maximum of 351 cu in (5.8 l) in 1972 and 1973 due to stricter U.S. emission control regulation, as well as the low demand for big block muscle cars because of high insurance premiums. Two more high-performance engines were introduced in 1972; the 351 "HO" and the 351 Cobra Jet. Both versions were high performers for their era, but nowhere near the level of the Boss cars and original Cobra Jet. Automakers in the U.S. switched from "gross" to "net" power and torque ratings in 1972, which coincided with the introduction of low-compression engines with different, far more restrictive induction systems. Thus, it is difficult to compare power and torque ratings.As before there were three body styles; hardtop, sportsroof and convertible.
On hardtops there was 'Grande' trim offered, it was meant as an luxury version. Sportsroof models were performance oriented, as it was only body version with 'Mach 1' option available, which was distinguishable by decals, hood with scoops (nonfunctional in most models), color keyed; side mirrors, strip on the edge of the front fenders and hood, urethane front bumper and grille with 'sportlights'. Cars equipped with 'Boss' engine had appearance of Mach 1 package, excluding front bumper, which was chrome. Convertible was equipped with a power top, a glass rear window, and tinted windshield standard. It was last Mustang available as a convertible until 1983.
There were no significant changes in appearance during 1971–1973 model years, 1973 however brought some mild restyling. Front bumpers in 'Base' and 'Grande' and Urethane in 'Mach 1' were all replaced by new Urethane one of new design to comply with new regulations. Thus turn signals were moved from underneath it to inside of the grille next to the headlights. Because of those changes horizontal grille 'sportlights' seen in 1971–1972 'Mach 1' were discontinued as new vertical blinkers took they place. New rear bumpers were introduced too. Also in 1973 new design of decals for the 'Mach 1' has been introduced, 'hockey stick' side stripes of 1971–1972 were still available on the 'Exterior Decor Group'. Magnum 500 wheels has been discontinued for 1973 and replaced with forged aluminum wheels.
1971–1973 Mach 1 has become famous thanks to the appearances in the films Diamonds Are Forever
Diamonds Are Forever (film)
Diamonds Are Forever is the seventh spy film in the Eon Productions James Bond series, and the sixth and final Eon Productions film to star Sean Connery as the fictional MI6 agent James Bond. The film is based on Ian Fleming's 1956 novel of the same name, and is the second of four James Bond films...
(1971) and Gone in 60 Seconds
Gone in 60 Seconds (1974 film)
Gone in 60 Seconds is a 1974 American action film written, directed, produced by, and starring H.B. 'Toby' Halicki. It centers on a group of car thieves and the 48 cars they must steal in a matter of days. The film is famous for having wrecked and destroyed 93 cars in a 34-minute car chase scene....
(1974).
For 1972 Ford prepared special model called 'Sprint' it was meant to commemorate USA participation in 1972 Olympic Games
1972 Summer Olympics
The 1972 Summer Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XX Olympiad, were an international multi-sport event held in Munich, West Germany, from August 26 to September 11, 1972....
. It consisted of special decals, color keyed front bumper, mirrors and grille taken from Mach 1. Performance suspension and wheels were also available.
There was no Shelby version of 1971–1973 Mustangs, save for the 'Shelby de Mexico GT-351', by Mexican dealer and very limited edition 'Shelby Europa', sold in Europe by private importer request to Shelby Motors.
Engines
1971 power and torque figures are gross, 1972–1973 are net.| engine displacement Engine displacement Engine displacement is the volume swept by all the pistons inside the cylinders of an internal combustion engine in a single movement from top dead centre to bottom dead centre . It is commonly specified in cubic centimeters , litres , or cubic inches... , type Engine configuration Engine configuration is an engineering term for the layout of the major components of a reciprocating piston internal combustion engine. These components are the cylinders and crankshafts in particular but also, sometimes, the camshaft.... , carburetor Carburetor A carburetor , carburettor, or carburetter is a device that blends air and fuel for an internal combustion engine. It is sometimes shortened to carb in North America and the United Kingdom.... type | max. motive Motive power In thermodynamics, motive power is an agency, as water or steam, used to impart motion. Generally, motive power is defined as a natural agent, as water, steam, wind, electricity, etc., used to impart motion to machinery; a motor; a mover. The term may also define something, as a locomotive or a... power Power (physics) In physics, power is the rate at which energy is transferred, used, or transformed. For example, the rate at which a light bulb transforms electrical energy into heat and light is measured in watts—the more wattage, the more power, or equivalently the more electrical energy is used per unit... at rpm Revolutions per minute Revolutions per minute is a measure of the frequency of a rotation. It annotates the number of full rotations completed in one minute around a fixed axis... | max. torque Torque Torque, moment or moment of force , is the tendency of a force to rotate an object about an axis, fulcrum, or pivot. Just as a force is a push or a pull, a torque can be thought of as a twist.... at rpm |
|---|---|---|
| 250 cu in (4.1 l) Thriftpower I6 (1972) 1-barrel |
95 bhp @ 3,400 |
197 lbft @ 1,600 |
| 250 cu in (4.1 l) Thriftpower I6 (1973) 1-barrel |
98 bhp @ 3,400 |
197 lbft @ 1,600 |
| 250 cu in (4.1 l) Thriftpower I6 (1971) 1-barrel |
145 bhp @ 4,000 |
232 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 302 cu in (5 l) Windsor V8 V8 engine A V8 engine is a V engine with eight cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of four cylinders, in most cases set at a right angle to each other but sometimes at a narrower angle, with all eight pistons driving a common crankshaft.... (1972) 2-barrel |
136 bhp @ 4,000 |
239 lbft @ 2,000 |
| 302 cu in (5 l) Windsor V8 (1973) 2-barrel |
140 bhp @ 4,000 |
239 lbft @ 2,000 |
| 302 cu in (5 l) Windsor V8 (1971) 2-barrel |
210 bhp @ 4,600 |
296 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cleveland V8 (1972) 2-barrel |
168 bhp @ 4,000 |
384 lbft @ 2,000 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cleveland V8 (1973) 2-barrel |
177 bhp @ 4,000 |
284 lbft @ 2,000 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cleveland V8 (1971) 2-barrel |
240 bhp @ 4,600 |
350 lbft @ 2,600 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cobra Jet V8 (1972) 4-barrel |
248 bhp @ 5,400 |
301 lbft @ 3,600 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cobra Jet V8 (1973) 4-barrel |
266 bhp @ 5,400 |
301 lbft @ 3,600 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) HO V8 (1973) 4-barrel |
266 bhp @ 5,400 |
286 lbft @ 3,800 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) HO V8 (1972) 4-barrel |
275 bhp @ 5,400 |
286 lbft @ 3,800 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cobra Jet V8 (1971) 4-barrel |
280 bhp @ 5,400 |
380 lbft @ 3,400 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Cleveland V8 (1971) 4-barrel |
285 bhp @ 5,400 |
370 lbft @ 3,400 |
| 351 cu in (5.8 l) Boss V8 (1971) 4-barrel |
330 bhp @ 5,400 |
|
| 429 cu in (7 l) Cobra Jet Ford 385 engine The Ford 385 engine family was the Ford Motor Company's final big block V8 engine design, replacing the Ford MEL engine and gradually superseding the Ford FE engine family... V8 (1971) 4-barrel |
370 bhp @ 5,400 |
450 lbft @ 3,400 |
| 429 cu in (7 l) Super Cobra Jet Ford 385 engine The Ford 385 engine family was the Ford Motor Company's final big block V8 engine design, replacing the Ford MEL engine and gradually superseding the Ford FE engine family... V8 (1971) 4-barrel |
375 bhp @ 5,600 |
450 lbft @ 3,400 |
Production
In 1964 Mustang production started with 22,000 orders taken on the first day. In the first two years of production, three Ford Motor Company plants in Milpitas, CaliforniaMilpitas, California
Milpitas is a city in Santa Clara County, California. It is a suburb of the major city of San Jose, California. It is located with San Jose to its south and Fremont to its north, at the eastern end of State Route 237 and generally between Interstates 680 and 880 which run roughly north/south...
; Dearborn, Michigan
Dearborn, Michigan
-Economy:Ford Motor Company has its world headquarters in Dearborn. In addition its Dearborn campus contains many research, testing, finance and some production facilities. Ford Land controls the numerous properties owned by Ford including sales and leasing to unrelated businesses such as the...
; and Metuchen, New Jersey
Metuchen, New Jersey
Metuchen is a Borough in Middlesex County, New Jersey, United States, which is 8 miles northeast of New Brunswick, 18 miles southwest of Newark, 24 miles southwest of Jersey City, and 29 miles southwest of Manhattan, all part of the New York metropolitan area...
produced almost 1.5 million Mustangs.
Industry reaction
Mustang success left General MotorsGeneral Motors
General Motors Company , commonly known as GM, formerly incorporated as General Motors Corporation, is an American multinational automotive corporation headquartered in Detroit, Michigan and the world's second-largest automaker in 2010...
unprepared and Chrysler Corporation slightly less so. Chrysler introduced the Plymouth Barracuda
Plymouth Barracuda
The Plymouth Barracuda is a 2-door car that was manufactured by the Plymouth division of the Chrysler Corporation from 1964-1974.The first-generation Barracuda, a fastback A-body coupe based on the Plymouth Valiant, had a distinctive wraparound back glass and was available from 1964-1966.The...
a few weeks before the Mustang, and although it was later redesigned as a distinct "pony car", it was initially a modified Plymouth Valiant
Plymouth Valiant
The Plymouth Valiant is an automobile manufactured by the Plymouth division of Chrysler Corporation in the United States from 1960 to 1976. It was created to give the company an entry in the compact car market emerging in the late 1950s...
. However, the "fish car" did not enjoy as strong a market demand as Ford's "pony". General Motors executives thought the rear-engined Chevrolet Corvair Monza
Chevrolet Corvair
-First generation :The 1960 Corvair 500 and 700 series four-door sedans were conceived as economy cars offering few amenities in order to keep the price competitive, with the 500 selling for under $2,000...
would compete against the Mustang, but it also sold poorly by comparison. The Monza performed well, but lacked a V8 engine and its reputation was tarnished by Ralph Nader
Ralph Nader
Ralph Nader is an American political activist, as well as an author, lecturer, and attorney. Areas of particular concern to Nader include consumer protection, humanitarianism, environmentalism, and democratic government....
in his book Unsafe At Any Speed
Unsafe at Any Speed
Unsafe at Any Speed: The Designed-In Dangers of the American Automobile by Ralph Nader, published in 1965, is a book detailing resistance by car manufacturers to the introduction of safety features, like seat belts, and their general reluctance to spend money on improving safety...
. It took GM until the 1967 model year to counter with the Chevrolet Camaro
First-generation Chevrolet Camaro
The first-generation Chevrolet Camaro appeared on September 26, 1966, for the 1967 model year on an all brand new rear-wheel drive GM F-body platform and would be available as a 2-door, 2+2 seat, coupe or convertible with a choice of six-cylinder and V8 powerplants...
and Pontiac Firebird
Pontiac Firebird
The Pontiac Firebird was built by the Pontiac division of General Motors between 1967 and 2002. The Firebird was introduced the same year as the automaker's platform-sharing model, the Chevrolet Camaro...
. Lincoln
Lincoln (automobile)
Lincoln is an American luxury vehicle brand of the Ford Motor Company. Lincoln vehicles are sold mostly in North America.-History:The company was founded in August 1915 by Henry M. Leland, one of the founders of Cadillac . During World War I, he left Cadillac which was sold to General Motors...
-Mercury joined the competition in 1967 with the Mercury Cougar
Mercury Cougar
The Mercury Cougar is an automobile which was sold under the Mercury brand of the Ford Motor Company's Lincoln-Mercury Division from 1967 to 2002. The name was first used in 1967 and was carried by a diverse series of cars over the next three decades. As is common with Mercury vehicles, the Cougar...
, an "upmarket Mustang" and subsequent Motor Trend Car of the Year. In 1968, American Motors
American Motors
American Motors Corporation was an American automobile company formed by the 1954 merger of Nash-Kelvinator Corporation and Hudson Motor Car Company. At the time, it was the largest corporate merger in U.S. history.George W...
(AMC) introduced the Javelin
AMC Javelin
The Javelin was a production version of one of the AMC AMX prototypes shown during the 1966 AMX project nationwide tour. Intended to rival other pony cars such as the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro. American Motor's Javelin debuted on 22 August 1967, for the 1968 model year...
, an "image changing" four-place pony car. This "real standout" model was quickly followed with "a Walter Mitty
Walter Mitty
Walter Mitty is a fictional character in James Thurber's short story "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty", first published in the New Yorker on March 18, 1939, and in book form in My World and Welcome to It in 1942...
Ferrari," the two-seater high-performance AMX
AMC AMX
The AMC AMX is a two-seat GT in style and approach sports car that was produced by American Motors Corporation for the 1968 through 1970 model years. The AMX was also classified as a muscle car, but "unique among other American cars at the time due its short wheelbase"...
. In 1970, the Dodge Challenger
Dodge Challenger
The Dodge Challenger is the name of three different generations of automobiles marketed by the Dodge division of Chrysler.The first generation Dodge Challenger was a pony car built from 1970 to 1974, using the Chrysler E platform and sharing major components with the Plymouth Barracuda. The second...
, a version of the Plymouth Barracuda platform
Automobile platform
An automobile platform is a shared set of common design, engineering, and production efforts, as well as major components over a number of outwardly distinct models and even types of automobiles, often from different, but related marques...
, was last to join the pony car race. This genre of small, sporty automobiles is often referred to as the "pony car
Pony car
Pony car is an American class of automobile launched and inspired by the Ford Mustang in 1964. The term describes an affordable, compact, highly styled car with a sporty or performance-oriented image.-Origins of the breed:...
" because of the Ford Mustang that established this market segment.
Further reading
- Ford MustangFord MustangThe Ford Mustang is an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. It was initially based on the second generation North American Ford Falcon, a compact car. Introduced early on April 17, 1964, as a "1964½" model, the 1965 Mustang was the automaker's most successful launch since the Model A...
- Ford Mustang Mach 1Ford Mustang Mach 1The Ford Mustang Mach 1 was a performance model of the Ford Mustang that Ford produced beginning in 1969. The original production run of the Mach 1 ended in 1979 because the Mustang II coupe was being phased out in favor of newer Mustangs on the Fox body platform.The Mach 1 returned in 2003 as a...
- Shelby MustangShelby MustangThe Shelby Mustang is a high performance variant of the Ford Mustang which was built by Shelby American from 1965 through 1970. Following the introduction of the fifth generation Ford Mustang, the Shelby nameplate was revived in 2007 for new high performance versions of the Mustang.- 1965–1966 :The...