Ford officially unveiled the First Generation Mustang on April 17th, 1964 to almost universal acclaim. Motoring journalists and buyers were equally impressed by the stunning styling and the affordability of the entry-level variants. However, this Convertible is a genuine 1964½ variant that rolled off the line on March 25th of that year. That makes it one of the earliest that you are likely to find in the current classic market. It presents nicely, with no major issues or shortcomings. Located in Deltona, Florida, the seller has listed this drop-top here on Craigslist. They set their price at $30,900, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Randy J for spotting this beauty.
I have always found it fascinating that while Ford unveiled the Mustang on April 17th at the 1964 World’s Fair, the first car was actually sold three days earlier. That demonstrates how enthusiastic potential buyers were, and the desire to own a Mustang grew enormously during the following two years. This early Convertible was ordered by its first owner in iconic Rangoon Red with a contrasting White power top. The seller doesn’t mention repairs or restoration, although the sparkling paint suggests it has received a cosmetic refresh. The seller admits there are minor imperfections, but first impressions are positive. The panels are straight, while the underside shots suggest that this Convertible is rust-free. I believe that the factory chrome wheels might be a later addition, especially considering other updates to be found across the car. The trim looks extremely nice, and the glass is clear.
One aspect of this Mustang that is seemingly unmolested is its interior. The first owner teamed the Rangoon Red exterior with White Crinkle vinyl and Red carpet. They accentuated the ownership experience by ticking the boxes beside the full-length console and AM radio on their Order Form. The vinyl trim exhibits some deterioration, and there are a couple of visible splits that may cause concern. However, if the new owner wishes to protect the car’s survivor status, discussing the problems with an upholsterer may reveal solutions that would negate the need for a retrim.
I may be viewing things harshly, but this Mustang’s engine bay is one of the car’s low points. It retains the correct 260ci V8, with the first owner teaming the motor with a three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. The larger 289ci powerplant was soon destined to join the Mustang range to replace the 260, offering improvements over the 164hp and 258 ft/lbs of torque generated by the smaller engine. This aspect of the Convertible is where my desire for originality becomes apparent. I don’t like the cosmetic enhancements provided by the chrome, especially on the generator. I would reverse those changes ASAP, and would also search for something more period-correct than the existing aluminum radiator. One concern is the battery hold-down bracket, which is an obvious DIY effort. That would have to go because a car of this caliber deserves far better. Another mechanical upgrade is the conversion of the brakes to four-wheel discs. This undoubtedly provides improved safety, but originality is often the key to long-term investment potential for cars of this type. There is no supplied information regarding the car’s mechanical health, but I would expect any Mustang within this price range to run and drive well.
What would be your strategy if you chose to pursue this 1964½ Mustang Convertible further? My first step would be to obtain a Marti Report to gain a clear insight into this classic’s original form. My next would be to reverse any changes to return this car to its factory form. I believe that such an early example, a car that effectively defined the pony car sector, deserves nothing less. Do you agree?
Agree to disagree Adam. While some of the bright bits on the engine might affect collectibility, I’d keep the disc brakes. Their benefits outweigh. I’d be looking to extract some more ponies out of that 260 ci engine.
I’m with you Fox Owner. Unless that car is going to get the vast majority of its future miles sitting a trailer, converting to disc brakes is a great modification. A higher efficiency radiator isn’t a bad idea either but you could go period correct there without risking your car.
If I’m driving that beauty, I don’t want to lose it because of the poor performance of drum brakes.
Even more important than the disc brake conversion is the change from a single-circuit to a dual circuit master cylinder that went with the disc brake conversion! Remember, dual circuit master cylinders didn’t become the “law of the land” until 1966, with the passage of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act, which established the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA). Before then, all cars, including this Mustang, had single-circuit master cylinders, so a single-point failure caused a complete loss of braking power in the service brakes! This was not good! I’ll trade originality for safety on every day of the week and twice on Sunday, LOL! I’d probably also add seatbelts as another non-original, but important safety feature, but that’s just me.
Period-correct changes I would leave because they are part of the car’s early history and what may have been done at the time in general. At least that’s my rationale for not spending
Obey.
64 1/2 – 66 didn’t have a battery hold down,it was a lip at the bottom of the factory battery that kept it in place.battery hold down devices are sold at NPD.
A little misleading there. They didn’t have a hold down from the top, but they did have a hold down clamp that bolted to the tray at the bottom. Two different sizes were used based on which battery your car came with.
i agree with the article writer about the under hood. very poor for the high asking price. would look better 100% in stock form.