1978 was the final year before the Fox platform began carrying Ford’s pony car, and this second-generation Mustang II appears to be a very nicely preserved example all the way around. This is one of those scenarios where the seller doesn’t go into great detail about the car’s history, leaving the photos to do most of the talking. Fortunately, the pictures seem to show a very solid and well-cared-for subcompact, with the asking price of $11,500 sounding reasonable given the condition, especially if the odometer reading is accurate. Reader Jack M. spotted this 1978 Ford Mustang II here on Craigslist in Leitchfield, Kentucky, and we’d like to thank him for sending us the tip here!
By 1973, the first-generation Mustang had grown in size from its early days, and the release of the smaller Mustang II couldn’t have been planned much better. The all-new 1974 model hit dealer lots around the time of the ’73 oil embargo, and buyers welcomed the redesigned, downsized pony with open arms, since fuel efficiency had become a priority for many consumers. Three engine options were available in 1978, including the base 2.3-liter inline-4, plus an optional V6 and the 5.0 V8. This one’s powered by the middle-of-the-road 2.6-liter, and while things look to be in good order under the hood, there’s no word on whether it’s ever had a rebuild or if the 22,964 miles showing are actual.
Yellow isn’t typically a color on my top-ten list for most cars, but for this particular body style, I think the subdued shade works great on the outside. The white Landau vinyl roof and body-side moldings complement the panels perfectly, which all appear very straight and are confirmed by the seller as being rust-free. The only information we get about the paint is that it’s nice, and while that’s a given, it would be helpful to know if this one’s had a respray or if the finish is original.
Also working well here is the black-and-white combo interior, and with such a strong condition, it’s making me lean toward believing that the mileage reading is likely correct. This one’s said to be ready for car shows and cruising, but with just 90 horsepower and an automatic transmission, I’d stay far away from the race tracks. The seller throws out the idea of a possible trade for an older Ford or GM truck, but also mentions that cash is king. How much currency would you be willing to shell out for this 1978 Ford Mustang II?
As long as one approaches this car for what it is, it is perfectly fine. Specifically, a very nicely trimmed economy car, a car in the mold of a smaller version of the then-popular personal luxury coupe (think Thunderbird). In fact, one of the Mustang II’s at my local small town dealer I specifically remember was this same car: yellow/white Ghia, white/black interior, wire mesh wheels.
I liked the one I remember. Seeing another one, I still like it, all these years later. This example appears to be in good shape.
Thanks Mike.
Nice to see someone approach this car that way. This is a really nice example of a Mustang II and we have to realize where the car industry was at this time. Someone obviously like these cars or they wouldn’t have sold so many. Wouldn’t be my first pick for a classic car, but one has to admire the condition it’s in. Very nice little car.
I’m going to agree with Bob. ( He beat me to it) I don’t normally go for yellow cars, but this just works, especially with the white vinyl top and black and white interior. The rims and whitewall tires really look great too. The V6 auto combo I’m sure was a popular combination with the more upscale Mustang II models. Nice write up Mike!!! And great find Jack M.
Thanks Bob and Driveinstile, I’m glad I wasn’t the only one here who appreciates this car! I agree, all these years later the styling has held up well.
It really has Mike ( the styling). When I was young, Mustang II’s were litterally inexpensive used cars that were 10 years old. And even in the 80’s, they were usually used up and beat up by then. I think now, at least for someone like me, I absolutely appreciate them more now. And I think other people do as well. And especially if you find one as nice as this, it really deserves to be preserved. Ford came out with this at just the right time as you pointed out already.
I enjoyed Mike’s write-up and the comments above. How many Mustang II’s can be remaining in this original condition? It is a unique time capsule from a unique time in automotive history.
I honestly don’t remember this color yellow but agree that it works here. We refer to the 70’s as a Malaise era but at least cars still came in a variety of exterior and interior colors.
Very tidy, especially in tough spots like the sill plates and the faux wood dash. I’d be tempted to believe the mileage. Price isn’t bad either, in these days of sky high values.
Nice deuce 👍
Looks like the one driven by Jaclyn Smith (Kelly Garrett in Charlie’s Angels, and my favorite angel), though all of them were beautiful.