I have always considered it a privilege to write for Barn Finds, allowing me to express my passion for classic cars. However, I also relish the opportunity to float ideas that may initially seem slightly left-field. That is the case with this 1968 Ford Mustang. It has belonged to the same family since the day it left the showroom, and is an unmolested and rust-free classic. It would be ideal for weekend adventures or trips to the local Cars & Coffee, but could it be a viable option as a daily driver? I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Mustang listed here on eBay in Addison, Illinois. The seller set their BIN at $19,900 with the option to make an offer.
Some classics come with limited information, making it almost impossible to assess their condition and relative worth. This 1968 Mustang is the polar opposite, leaving us drowning in its history. It has been part of the same family since Day One, passed down from a mother to her son. The first owner ordered it in Wimbledon White with a Black vinyl top, and the seller confirms that it has received a cosmetic refresh. It presents well for its age, with the paint consistent, the vinyl in good condition, and no major panel imperfections. Delving below the surface via the underside shots reveals that this Mustang is rust-free and as solid as the day it left the line. The trim is in good condition, and the glass is clear. The steel wheels and hubcaps give this Ford a subtle and understated look that purists will appreciate.
The first owner apparently preferred an effortless driving experience, ordering the Mustang with a 289ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission, and power steering. The 289 is the C-Code version, with 1968 marking the final year when buyers could tick that box on the Order Form. It should generate 195hp and 288 ft/lbs of torque, and although the power figure was down slightly compared to the previous year, a rise in torque meant that this Mustang offered comparable performance to its predecessor. The seller states that the odometer shows 61,600 miles, although there is no documentation confirming the reading as genuine. However, the buyer receives the original Owner’s Manual, Warranty Information, and the Bill of Sale. The seller supplies this YouTube video of the car in action. It is quite long, but provides an excellent walkaround and demonstrates that this Mustang runs and drives perfectly.
It is refreshing to find a Mustang of this vintage with an unmolested interior. Nobody has added extra gauges or an aftermarket stereo, with this car retaining its functioning AM radio. The Black vinyl trim matches the top and is in excellent condition for its age. The driver’s seat base has three seam separations that might be repairable, but the rest of the upholstered surfaces are free from rips and wear. There is no significant carpet wear, the headliner is spotless, and the plastic looks exceptional. Overall, the interior appears to have been treated respectfully by the family since they took delivery of this Mustang.
A 1968 Ford Mustang may not seem the obvious first choice as a daily driver, but why shouldn’t it be? Parts are readily available, maintenance is cheap, they are quite comfortable, and this car’s mechanical configuration should provide an effortless driving experience. If you still aren’t convinced, here’s a thought experiment for you. The new car market is awash with alternatives, so let’s take a current Toyota Corolla as an example. It will come with a warranty, a host of creature comforts, and will cost you around $22,500. It is slightly more expensive than this Mustang, and many readers may think that is fair considering the refinement and equipment level. However, what will that Corolla be worth in five years from now? Typical depreciation will wipe around 40% from its value, and history shows that the Mustang won’t suffer the same fate. Therefore, since this pony car is cheaper and almost certainly won’t lose its value, it could be an ideal daily driver. Do you agree?
Same in our family I have the car I grew up in with my grandmother‘s 1966 Mustang. They are worthless and priceless all at the same time. The value comes in the generational experiences that are found. Looks to be a great vehicle could be a reasonable daily driver May consider this one to add to the stable & keep all of the family information together.
Looks as if that original family might have changed the dog dish hub caps with truck caps.
Head and shoulders above what you usually see. Once owned a ’66 v8 coupe but this/the ’68 is a better, improved car. Paperwork nice to have. Better would be PdB and no 4 wheel drum which was real negative in our ’66. No question I would seriously consider this one – look at that beautiful underside . Looks like a winner that was cared for.
Definitely worthy of pulling daily driver duty. I’d do it without question. Over time you can upgrade the motor & suspension. Also upgrade to disc brakes up front.
Only downside I see is the vinyl top, never been a fan.
Looks nice but has the typical top inner fender overlap rust and a hole on pass side. Rust might a little worse underneath than stated?
Daily-driven n the salt belt of the Midwest, this solid-looking Mustang would be a rusty POS in about 4 years. When this car was new, that’s about how long they lasted in Chicago before the tinworm perforated quarter panels, floors and fenders. My Aunt’s ’68 had rust-through in the ROOF by the time she traded it! New cars are much-improved in terms of sheetmetal protection.
That said, it would make a great summer driver— even in Chicago!
Too much money for a Plain Jane Mustang. The rust under the hood suggests that there could be other hidden rust or rust that was covered up. Anybody who installs clamp-on battery ends is either an amateur or a hack – no self-respecting classic car seller would leave those in place on a car they are trying to sell for top dollar. In person inspection required.
DA,
Pricey yes, but clamp-on battery connectors does not make it a hack job. Granted just my opinion, we all have one. They are effective and these look like they were done well for what the car is.
As with anything though always best for an in-person look before purchase. Which would make more sense at 1/2 the asking price for my money.