For reasons unknown, this 1965 Ford Mustang and 1972 Datsun 240Z were parked in Mom’s backyard in the early 1980s – and left there to the elements. They haven’t run since, and both will need substantial work to perform once again, although they’ve both been covered. Located in West Mobile, Alabama, the details and photos are sketchy here on craigslist, and the seller hasn’t indicated what he or she is hoping to get for either project. Thanks for the tip, Chuck Foster/ 55chevy.
1965 Ford Mustang Fastback
The seller describes the Mustang as a 1964 ½ model, but there were all titled 1965s. And the fastback wasn’t available until the Fall line-up debuted. We’re told this is a complete car although some of the windows have been busted out by vandals. There is no mention as to which engine is in the Ford, and since there are no 289 emblems on the front fender, a 200 cubic-inch inline-6 could be tucked under the hood (along with a manual transmission).
1972 Datsun 240Z
The 240Z was Nissan’s first closed-coupe sports car imported to the U.S. It was quite popular and would evolve into the 260Z and 280Z as the decade progressed. These cars had a 2.4-liter inline-6. We’re told it has more rust than the Mustang but is also a complete vehicle. The seller can offer both cars for sale due to a court order that granted ownership. The seller wants them both gone quickly – within the next few days.
Good job with limited pics and info, Russ. And as you mentioned – since the Fastback wasn’t released until the Fall, then no Fastback could be considered a “1964 1/2” … even unofficially.
The Craigslist ad indicates it’s a 6-cylinder with manual transmission, so the engine isn’t a mystery, but the transmission is. Three- and four-speed manuals were available with the 200-cid six.
The six-cylinder reference could also apply to the 240Z.
Hey Russ, How much? Need info
It’s a poor quality photo but the wheels appear to be a four bolt pattern which would mean the car originally came with a six cylinder.
Exactly
Living in a humid climate, I know that covering a car with non-breathable tarp is certain death for both the bodywork and interior materials. Would love to own any 240Z but rust is a deal breaker.
That ol tin worm is a sonnabeesh
I absolutely love the old 240’s … but they started to rust as they came off the assembly line. Don’t hold out much hope for this baby.
They actually look way better than I thought they would!
I agree. Mobile is near Pensacola where I once lived, and under these coastal conditions a car would normally now be non existent, especially with a humidity trapping cover.
That Z looks mighty toasty. If it looks that rough from the side pic I would guess the tin worm had its fill with the rest of the car.
The Mustang has a future as a Shelby clone and the Z car,I would do a factory restoration if high cost isn’t a factor. But if it’s going to cost too much to restore,then make it a safe driver and rack the miles up on it.
Look at the rockers on that Z! Pretty far gone I reckon. And that’s the good side…