A-Code/4-Speed: 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible

There must have been people within Ford’s management team dancing a jig in 1966. The Mustang represented a bold risk as a niche model, but their faith in the project was rewarded handsomely. The company’s pony car returned enormous sales volumes and a healthy profit, justifying the roll of the dice. This ’66 Mustang Convertible presents superbly following a rotisserie restoration. Adding to its appeal is the A-Code 289ci V8 hiding beneath the hood. It is a classic that the buyer can enjoy immediately. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting this beautiful drop-top listed here on Craigslist in Tigard, Oregon. The seller set their price at $59,500, indicating that the price is firm.

It’s funny how certain paint shades seem inherently “right” when applied to classic cars. Any late 1970’s Pontiac Trans Am in Starlight Black can be considered iconic, as can a Plymouth ‘Cuda in Plum Crazy. The first owner ordered this 1966 Mustang Convertible in Candy Apple Red, a color that looks right at home on this drop-top. The seller indicates it recently emerged from a rotisserie restoration, and its presentation reflects that. The paint has a mirror shine, the panels are laser-straight, and the gaps are tight and consistent. The underside wears the correct Red Oxide, with the images confirming the car’s rust-free status. The Parchment soft-top appears new, and the trim is perfect. Cosmetically, this Mustang seems to be a winner.

The “Parchment” theme set by the soft-top continues inside this Mustang. Its condition is close to “as-new,” with no visible flaws or issues. The carpet is perfect, the painted surfaces are equally impressive, and the factory air conditioning adds to its appeal. I’m unsure whether it could be considered show-quality, but there is nothing in this interior to embarrass the new owner.

Some classics are a triumph of style over substance, but no such criticisms could be leveled at this Mustang. Lifting the hood reveals a 289ci V8 and a four-speed manual transmission. Interestingly, listing images confirm that this car features power steering, but I can’t spot a booster for the claimed power front disc brakes. In fact, as Barn Finder CATHOUSE pointed out soon after I initially published this article, this Mustang definitely features four-wheel drums. As the A-Code 289, this motor should produce a factory-quoted 225hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque. It won’t be muscle-car fast, but this Convertible will be an accomplished performer in all circumstances. The seller performed a few changes during their build, converting the distributor to electronic internal components. They added a dual Flowmaster exhaust and installed an Edelbrock carburetor. Those preferring authenticity will welcome the news that the original carb is included if they wish to reverse that change. Potential buyers can consider the Mustang a turnkey proposition.

While automotive history contains examples of cars that have excited the world, that doesn’t mean that the enthusiasm has translated into showroom success. However, the 1966 Mustang sold in unprecedented numbers. An incredible 607,568 cars rolled off the line in that model year, marking the badge’s high point. Ford had a winner on its hands, and the Mustang has remained a staple of the marque’s line-up ever since. This 1966 Convertible is a gem, though, with the seller’s price pushing it into the upper end of the market, it needs to be. They may need to be patient to achieve sales success, but I believe that it will happen. Are you tempted by what you see?