Although a 1977 model with a base 4-cylinder engine that hasn’t been operational since the early nineties might not be the most appealing Ford Mustang out there, for $1,500, there may be some worthwhile possibilities here. The seller doesn’t give us a whole lot of background, but does mention that this one is fresh out of the barn, so hopefully, some budget-conscious gearhead will find something satisfying to do with it. Whatever the vision, there’s plenty of work to be done, but fortunately, this one appears to be mostly complete. This red pony can be found here on Facebook Marketplace in Cascade, Wisconsin, and we’d like to say thanks to Barn Finds tipster Lothar… of the Hill People for making us aware of it!
Probably the worst area outside is the driver’s quarter, which shows significant rust, particularly around the wheel opening. It’s hard to tell whether some of the other areas are actual corrosion or just paint peeling, but I’m pretty sure the tin worm has also been doing some gnawing around the same section on the passenger side. Hopefully, most of the parts from the doors forward will be salvageable, sans the front bumper.
No attempt has been made to start the 2.3-liter engine, which might prove difficult, as no ignition key is present. However, the seller reports that it still turns freely, so there may be hope of getting it going again. However, another and perhaps better option would be to yank the motor and replace it with something more powerful, since this base 4-cylinder has a factory HP rating of less than 100. Fortunately, this one’s equipped with a 4-speed, so whatever path is chosen, it’s already set up for a manual transmission.
Things inside could also use a good refresh or, at a bare minimum, a thorough cleaning. However, with such a low initial cost, there may be enough funds left over to give the inside a nice makeover. Nevertheless, if it’s just a cheap driver you’re after, maybe just spend an afternoon with a bottle of 409, splurge for some fresh carpeting, and call it a day. I’m finding the price and 4-speed both appealing factors here, and I’d rather see this 1977 Ford Mustang saved than not. How about you?
A four-cylinder four-speed Mustang II, there were plenty of them built. They filled the role of basic economy car back in the day. Too bad about the rust on this one. Maybe it has a future beyond parts car. As you point out Mike, perhaps someone will want to take it on.
Nice one, Mike and Lothar! One of these days (Alice), I want to own a Mustang II, I really like how unique they are. I had a model of a notchback as a kid and have always wanted a real one. It would have to have a 4-speed for sure.
Love the notchbacks. Maybe you could whip up a cop car 77′ notch rendering SG ? 🚨 😲 They were sure popular a generation later.
Whew, that took longer than I thought it would, Stan!
That looks very realistic Scotty. Now I want one!!!
Heads will be exploding 🤯 on that one…lol.
That’s really cool.
OK, that is impressive! Actually looks pretty good in law-enforcement black-and-white…
That car was not worth $1,500 dollars brand new.
Millions of folks bought them. To spite themselves, I guess.
Fomoco sold over a half million of them in 74, then several hundred thousand each year 75-78. Most disagree.
Get the existing motor running and breath a little stoutness into it. With a healthier cam and a bigger carburetor it would breath and rev a lot easier. And with a 4 spd already in place whats not to like? Granted it needs a little metal work and interior clean up but those can be addressed as you use it. Might as well tighten up the suspension a bit for handling prowess.
No great shakes in the land of automotive investment with this mustang 2 but the fun per miles could be huge. Prefect starter project for any kid, young or old.
Or a parts car. What’s the going rate for a complete mustang 2 front end these days?
If you can find one in the wrecking yard. About $250.
I like the body style of the fastback. (sans the park bench bumpers) These, not so much.
I can smell that interior from here..(Texas)!
I’m afraid the next stop for this is the junkyard. Too much work for what it is worth. That rust is super scary, especially around the rear window.
I’ve always been interested in the Mustang II. I’d buy one if it was in nicer condition than this. It doesn’t have to be immaculate, but it does have to be solid. It also has to run and drive safely.
Why would anyone want one of these?
Because it’s a slice of 70’s American auto history is why
I had a ’77 hatch back. I was a good little car. It was just as good as anything else that was out there. They were certainly no worse. This one has seen better days. This one would have been a $200 car back in the day. I know people trash talk them, but they came out at just the right time with the oil crunch going on. Many people credit The Mustang II for saving the name plate. I now have a 2013 convertible. My best one yet.
Chevy called. He wants his name back.