Because the Ford Mustang was introduced on April 17, 1964, a lot of folks have referred to the early examples as 1964 ½ models. But that was totally unofficial, as Ford titled every Mustang built before the 1966 model year as a 1965. This inline-6 project is one of those early builds, but it’s not running and may not have for a while. As a project, the little Ford is available here on craigslist and near Scottsdale, Arizona, for $3,500.
A bunch of these so-called 1964 ½ Mustangs were produced, about 121,500 in total. The first was built in early March and the last in mid-August. The seller’s car left the line in May. It should have a 200 cubic inch inline-6 with a 3-speed manual transmission, so options on the car were few. The mileage is unknown as the odometer is broken. The seller may have planned to do a V8 conversion with an automatic tranny and is sending a C4 along with the sale.
This car may have stayed in Arizona its entire life, which may explain why the vehicle is rust-free (at least per Chuck, the seller). The white paint job is past its prime, and there’s a fair amount of primer on the front clip. Speaking of front clips, we wonder if this one is from 1966, as the grille looks to be ’66-vintage. But the floors, quarter panels, and doors seem to be all up to snuff.
The photos indicate that the upholstery has been redone, as the materials are nothing like what Ford installed in the Mustang back in the day. If you’re looking for one of these to restore, its bones seem to be worthy. But an inline-6 Mustang is one of the least sought after, and you’d probably have to redo the interior again if you want to be period-correct.
Worth a look if you live in the area and are interested in an early Mustang project at what appears be a reasonable price.
Steve R
Build Date May 23 1964 WOW
price is fair if you are looking for 1 of these.
There are so many 65-73 Mustangs on FB Marketplace here in the Phoenix metro .
Strange to see one without backup lights, but they were optional equipment on early Mustangs. Also, the engine should be a 170. The 200 became standard in the fall, at the start of the “official” 1965 model year.
Russ, can we please stop with the moniker that never was? It serves no purpose but for perpetuating an Urban Myth.