Because the Ford Mustang was introduced in the Spring of 1964, many assume even today that early examples were 1964 ½ models. But the reality is that all Mustangs produced before the 1966 editions came out were titled as 1965s. But that doesn’t mean they’re not interesting because of some small differences. The seller calls this “pony car,” a 1964 model, so we’ll treat it as having been built before August of ‘64. Though complete, the seller defines its condition as “salvage” with no title, so maybe it’s just a parts car in Clinton, Washington, and is available here on craigslist for only $1,000. Another tip from Barn Finder “Curvette.”
Unfortunately, this car is the subject of another online listing with practically no details and low-resolution photos. We’re told the mileage exceeds 100,000, and the odometer stopped working at some point. But how long ago was that, and how long has this 60-year-old Ford been sitting, presumably outdoors? While the car seems to be 100% covered in grey primer, the sheet metal doesn’t show any alarming distress. But could some earlier rust repairs have been made?
Under the hood sits a V8, but is it a 260 or 289 cubic inch version, since both were offered in the “1964 ½” Mustang, depending on timing? Considering the valve covers are not painted gold, I’m going with a 289. I can’t tell whether a generator or an alternator was used, one of the early ‘Stang differentiators.
Whatever the case, an automatic transmission was ordered. But since no interior pics were supplied, we don’t know the status of the passenger area. And another question mark is the use of a 1966 gas cap. For $1,000, this sounds like a viable donor or even a restoration project – if you want to take a gamble.
thinking all 65s v-8s were painted gold The standard 260 and 289 V-8 engines used gold valve covers and air cleaners, while the HiPo 289 engine, which came with a different set of performance upgrades, had blue ones
Robert. Incorrect. The HiPo289 came with Chrome plated valve covers black block for 65.
For a $1000 there is still some parts there you could sale and make up your money. Wrong coast otherwise I may be tempted, just for S&Gs.
It has after market dual pipes – somebody has enjoyed it – if the engine turns it would be a project for me only if it was 100 miles or less away from me, which it’s not.
So if you walked down the road and tripped over it you’d buy it? Me too. I guess.
I once met someone from Manhattan who said they had never once left “the island.”
A great buy for 1 k,parts alone are woth alot for some restoring a 65′ Just look in Mustang catalogs at the prices for parts.Check out VMF,Vintage Mustang Forum,its a free site.
Need to know why there’s no title. Can’t think of any good reason. Spidey Sense is tingling…
Complete? Missing title, condition marked as salvage. Odometer broken, engine condition not stated. Without any proof of ownership, who knows what they are buying? The terrible pictures do nothing to answer any questions.
Located in snohomish County Washington. (Suburb of Seattle) Cars there don’t see road salt. (Some ocean seasoned moisture that is normally attacking the roof areas of the vehicle) But the salt air is not as bad as say Santa Cruz California as the consistent rain tends to wash away any bad top body stuff. I’ve had a couple of 5.0 Mustangs with “salvage titles” that had been theft recoveries. If serous about the car. The police are happy to run the VIN to make sure that it is not stolen. What most people do with “titleless” cars is claim them abandon on your property. There is a procedure for contacting the previous owner and as long as they have “no interest ” in the car, the state will issue a title. (Different in every state) You never know about condition until a proper inspection. But early Mustangs tend to “wear their rust proudly” so I’m thinking that this could be a good buy.