- Seller: Giordano’s Vintage Motors (Contact)
- Location: Carnation, Washington
- Mileage: 81,450 Shown
- Chassis #: 6F07C254263
- Title Status: Clean
- Engine: 302 cui HiPo V8
- Transmission: Tremec 5-Speed Manual
The first-generation Mustang Coupe remains one of the most iconic classics ever built. The design resonated with all kinds of buyers. Whether you were looking for a fuel-efficient commuter or a rowdy performance machine, the Mustang could do it all. This 1966 example has mechanical upgrades that push it more toward the rowdy side. Its fresh satin-black finish keeps a relatively low profile, but a built 302 V8, five-speed manual transmission, upgraded steering and suspension, and a Ford 9-inch rear end mean it’s ready for some fun! The seller has listed this mild resto-mod here on Barn Finds with an asking price of $16,950. It’s located in Carnation, Washington, and is offered with a clean title.
Its VIN confirms that it began life as a Dearborn-built C-code Coupe, meaning it was originally powered by a two-barrel 289ci V8. The seller also states that it was equipped with a four-speed manual transmission from the factory. It has since been developed into a street-oriented performance car, with the work completed over a number of years and supplemented by more recent improvements at the seller’s shop.
Its original 289 has been replaced by what the seller describes as a professionally built high-performance 302. No horsepower figure or detailed engine specifications are provided, but the photos show a four-barrel carburetor, aluminum intake, aftermarket ignition components, headers, and a Monte Carlo bar spanning the engine bay. The presentation is functional rather than show-quality, which means you can drive it hard and not worry about rock chips.
Power is sent through a Tremec T-5 transmission. The addition of a fifth gear should make this Mustang more relaxed at highway speeds than the original four-speed, while still preserving the involvement that comes with three pedals. A Ford 9-inch rear end with a limited-slip differential completes the drivetrain, and a dual exhaust system is visible in the underside photos.
The suspension and steering have also received attention. The seller lists an updated steering rack, heavy-duty sport suspension, upgraded sway bars, and front power-assisted disc brakes. When the listing was submitted, new front brake calipers, pads, and a heavy-duty dual-circuit master-cylinder system were being installed. Five-spoke alloy wheels and low-profile performance tires add to the purposeful appearance without overwhelming the Mustang’s familiar lines. Fog lights have been installed in the grille, providing a visual nod to the factory GT package without the seller representing it as one.
The seller describes the body as straight and in excellent condition. They also state that the satin or matte-black finish is fresh, although it looks a bit like black primer. We would want to inspect the paint closely to make sure it’s a finish coat, rather than primer that won’t hold up to sun exposure. The chrome bumpers, exterior trim, glass, and lighting appear complete, and the matte finish lets the wheels and classic Mustang details stand out. The next owner could likely leave it as-is, but a conventional glossy finish would sure make it stand out. Add stripes or Shelby-style graphics, and it could have a serious competition look.
The black interior has received new front seat covers, door panels, and interior panels. It also features a wood-rimmed steering wheel, a floor-mounted five-speed shifter, and under-dash lighting. The rear seat and headliner appear presentable in the supplied photos, although the seller acknowledges that some interior finishing remains. The odometer displays 81,450 miles, but mileage accumulated by the replacement engine and drivetrain is not stated.
This Mustang occupies an interesting position between a finished driver and an unfinished project. Most of the expensive mechanical pieces are already present, leaving its next owner to decide how far to take the cosmetic details. It could be finished as a comfortable back-road cruiser, repainted and refined into a more traditional resto-mod, or developed further for autocross and vintage-track use. For someone who wants first-generation Mustang styling with a stronger drivetrain and more responsive chassis, this Coupe offers plenty of possibilities without the pressure of preserving a factory-original example. Would you retain its satin-black appearance, or give it a brighter factory-inspired finish?
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