Some classics make a positive first impression, which is the case with this 1966 Ford Mustang. It is an original and unmolested survivor with 57,000 miles on the clock. The underside shots confirm the typically prone areas are rust-free, while the engine bay houses its numbers-matching V8. However, a close inspection reveals issues that will prompt a cosmetic restoration as part of this classic’s short-term future. The Mustang is listed here on Craigslist in Milpitas, California. The seller set their price at $17,900, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder ToddK for spotting this classic pony car.

The 1966 model year was a banner one for the First Generation Mustang, with a record 607,568 buyers handing over their cash to drive one off the lot. This ’66 makes a positive first impression, finished in Wimbledon White with a contrasting Black vinyl top. It retains its original chrome and hubcaps, with these and the tinted glass in good order. The car has resided in California, making the straight panels and solid floors, rails, and torque boxes unsurprising. So far, there appears to be nothing but positive news. However, there are issues for potential buyers to consider. The seller admits it has prior accident repairs, and the bizarre state of the paint on the passenger side quarter panel suggests this might be the area involved. I can’t determine why the paint has deteriorated in this fashion, but stripping it away will be the only solution to the problem. The hood exhibits checking, making it a candidate for a repaint, but this could be the tip of the iceberg. There is significant bubbling appearing below the vinyl, suggesting rust has sunk its teeth into this Mustang’s steel. Combining those factors virtually guarantees that the only way to return this classic to its former glory will involve stripping the exterior to bare metal and starting from scratch.

The seller confirms this Mustang is numbers-matching, with its engine bay housing a C-Code 289ci V8. This motor sends 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission, while the original owner passed on such luxuries as power assistance for the steering and brakes. This was the least potent variant of the V8-equipped Mustang available in 1966, although it offered enough performance to satisfy most buyers. The seller claims it is a two-owner classic with 57,000 original miles on the clock. They don’t mention verifying evidence for the odometer reading, meaning it must be taken at face value. The car runs and drives very well, but the lack of regular use leads the seller to suggest it would benefit from a service and tune-up to perform at its best.

Examining the interior shots confirms the only aftermarket addition inside this Mustang is a more modern radio/cassette player occupying the spot normally reserved for the factory radio. Otherwise, it is unmolested and acceptable for a driver-grade classic. The seats show minimal wear, with the dash and pad looking excellent. The carpet exhibits typical light fading, and the Black vinyl on the door trims has stretched. Addressing those few shortcomings would be easy and inexpensive, but the lack of gaping holes and other significant issues means that could happen at the new owner’s leisure.

I have a genuine soft spot for the 1966 Mustang because the minor cosmetic upgrades it received for that model year didn’t spoil the purity of the original design. This one shows initial promise but has enough imperfections to demand an in-person inspection. A classic car is typically a luxury item, and few mere mortals have money to splash on a vehicle that could consume cubic dollars to present acceptably. Addressing this Mustang’s shortcomings could be straightforward, but running an eye over it would provide peace of mind. Do you agree?