Some classics have so many positive attributes that isolating one as its most outstanding is seemingly impossible. Such is the case with this 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible. It has belonged to the same owner since 1967 and has clocked a mere 67,000 miles. Its presentation is exquisite following a cosmetic restoration, and the sale includes an extensive collection of paperwork. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Mustang listed here on Craigslist in Redmond, Washington. Cars of this type are rarely cheap, and someone must be prepared to pay $49,950 for the privilege of driving away in this Convertible.
Ah, 1966. The year when the First Generation Mustang came of age. An incredible 607,568 of these babies rolled off the line that year, marking the peak of production. Our featured Convertible is from that model year, and started life as a rental at Budget Rent-A-Car. The current owner purchased the car in January 1967 and used it regularly until 1975, after which it became a “special-occasions-only” classic. The owner cherished this Mustang, deciding to give it a birthday in 1988 by having the body stripped to bare metal, eliminating any minor rust issues, and applying a fresh coat of the car’s correct Signal Flare Red paint. The process included replacing the power top in its correct, contrasting Black, and fitting new bumpers. The seller states that the car has seen limited use since the restoration, which helps explain its spotless presentation. The exterior appears to be beyond criticism, from the sparkling paint to the laser-straight panels, and the top that fits as tight as a drum.
Budget ordered this Mustang fitted with a C-Code 289ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, and power steering. The C-Code’s 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque provided respectable performance, but this Convertible may have something extra hidden up its sleeve. The first thing to note is that it isn’t numbers-matching. A professionally rebuilt replacement engine was installed in 2022 after the owner discovered that the original engine’s block had cracked. This motor features an upgraded camshaft, but it is impossible to determine whether they fitted any additional “go-faster” components. The listing indicates that a long list of mechanical components has been replaced over the years, but these should be considered items that reflect regular servicing and maintenance. The deal includes the original Owner’s Manual, Dealer Envelope, Warranty Tag, original Washington “pink slip,” original Dealer Purchase Order, original Washington Title issued in 1967, registration slips, and a large binder of records. Potential buyers should consider the Mustang a turnkey proposition, and the documentation may substantiate the seller’s mileage claim.
Some readers might believe that the 1988 cosmetic restoration included at least a partial interior retrim in the car’s correct Black vinyl, but nothing could be further from the truth. The seller describes the interior as original, making its condition particularly noteworthy. There is slight wear on the driver’s seat and a close inspection will probably reveal other minute imperfections. Otherwise, the condition reflects respectful treatment and is consistent with the mileage claim. The optional equipment list isn’t extensive, although the console and radio should make life on the road fairly pleasant.
I earlier used the word “exquisite” to describe this 1966 Mustang Convertible, and I won’t retreat from that. Its exterior presentation is faultless, while the original interior tells the story of a classic that has been the current owner’s treasured possession for almost six decades. The Mustang might not be cheap, but the buyer shouldn’t need to spend another dime beyond the purchase price. Would you hand over your cash for this classic, or do you believe that the seller is being optimistic?
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