Special Editions have existed for almost as long as motor vehicles have plied our roads. They let manufacturers boost sales by offering buyers a unique combination of options at a bargain price. Ford adopted that approach when it added the California Special, or GT/CS, to its Mustang range in 1968. This GT/CS is an unrestored classic in need of a new home. It is a tidy survivor, though its new owner could address a couple of minor issues to improve its appearance. The seller has listed the Mustang here on eBay in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Bidding has reached $13,300, though that figure is below the reserve. There is also a BIN option of $30,000 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.
The First Generation Mustang peaked in 1966, with 607,568 buyers taking one home. Although it continued to sell in extremely healthy numbers, the 1967 tally of 472,121 represented a 22% fall, and Ford was keen to arrest the drop. In 1968, it introduced a couple of Limited Edition models, including the California Special. Also known as the GT/CS, those cars featured the scoops, rear deck lid, end caps, and taillights that also appeared on the iconic Shelby variants. Our featured car retains those items and is a survivor-grade classic finished in Wimbledon White. Close inspection reveals a few cosmetic flaws, but I don’t consider these negative. Owning a pristine vehicle is wonderful, but one with a few chips and marks often offers a more relaxed ownership experience. The paint shines nicely, and the panels are straight. The fiberglass enhancements are in good condition, and the underside shots reveal no evidence of rust. Add crystal-clear glass, spotless trim, and ultra-clean wheels to the equation, and this Mustang looks like a winner.
The interior is where the buyer could make their mark if they wished to improve this Mustang’s appearance. The carpet isn’t heavily worn, but it is faded in some spots. It remains acceptable for a survivor-grade vehicle, but spending $225 on a replacement carpet set would make a difference. It is unclear what’s under the dash mat, but the pad doesn’t appear warped. The mat might be there for protection, but it may also hide UV damage. If so, reproduction pads are readily available for around $230. The upper passenger-side dash trim has deteriorated, but a $45 replacement would address that. Otherwise, the Red vinyl upholstery is in good condition, although there appears to be some type of slipcover over the driver’s seat back. The first owner ordered the car with air conditioning, but the compressor is sitting in the trunk. It is unclear what is required to get the system functioning, but I believe doing so would be worthwhile.
Lifting this Mustang’s hood reveals its numbers-matching 289ci V8, teamed with its original three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. This 289 is the C-Code version, producing a factory-rated 195hp and 288 ft/lbs of torque. The overall performance would be very respectable, and would satisfy most enthusiasts seeking a relaxed driving experience. The best news for potential buyers beyond the numbers-matching status is that this GT/CS is a turnkey proposition. The seller says that it runs and drives beautifully, and they are willing to supply a supporting video to interested parties.
Although Ford planned to build 5,000 examples of the 1968 Mustang GT/CS, only 4,118 left the line during the 5½-month production run. Enthusiasts consider the California Special desirable, and pristine examples can command healthy sale prices. This one isn’t perfect, but the seller’s BIN looks realistic at a time when values are climbing fairly steadily. Depending on their reserve, the financial situation could be better if interested parties join the bidding war. Would you do that, or do you like this Mustang enough to throw caution to the wind and hit the button? I’d be interested to hear your feedback.
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