Enthusiasts seeking true originality may want to give this 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible a wide berth. However, if you prefer an extremely tidy driver with desirable factory options and a few non-urgent needs, it might be worth a close look. It is ready for action as-is, but the coming winter months might be an ideal time to address its shortcomings, so it can deliver classic motoring pleasure when the sun shows its head again. Barn Finder Curvette deserves credit for spotting the Mustang listed here on Craigslist in Granite Falls, Washington, for $32,500.
In 1965, Ford found itself in an enviable position, struggling to meet buyer demand for the Mustang. It dominated the pony car market, with only the Plymouth Barracuda as a competitor. The pressure would come in 1967 with the release of the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird, but Ford undoubtedly made hay while the sun shone. It sold 559,451 cars in 1965 before the badge hit its high-water mark in 1966, with 607,568 buyers driving home in a new Mustang. Some paint shades are iconic on certain vehicles, and Rangoon Red on a First Generation Mustang is one of them. This Convertible features that color, paired with a contrasting White power top. The paint has exceptional depth and shine, suggesting it may be relatively fresh. The seller doesn’t mention it specifically, but the appearance makes it plausible, and the listing text hints at it. I noticed a couple of small panel bumps, but I believe a paintless dent removal company could eliminate these. Less exciting are the underside shots, revealing rust in the inner rockers. The problems aren’t extensive, and I believe they could be addressed with isolated repairs, rather than wholesale steel replacement. The top fits nicely, and the glass is clear. The trim and 14″ styled wheels are excellent, and the GT-style grille and fog lights are an interesting touch that increase the visual appeal.
This Mustang is powered by a 289ci V8, and as the C-Code variant, it should produce 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque. It also features a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and unassisted front disc brakes. The C-Code was essentially the entry-level V8, and although it didn’t offer the same performance as the A-Code or the fire-breathing K-Code, it was a popular choice, delivering a great compromise of performance and efficiency. Of course, it also delivers that beautiful bass growl that many enthusiasts expect from a Mustang. The seller doesn’t mention whether the Convertible is numbers-matching, although many people wouldn’t view non-original mechanical components as a deal-breaker when searching for a driver-grade classic. The seller says the V8 runs smoothly and the vehicle drives extremely well, ready for action as soon as the buyer hands over the cash.
Although this Mustang’s interior is presentable and has no torn or shredded upholstery, it still falls short of my expectations for a vehicle in this price range. The dashpad looks dark from some angles, suggesting UV deterioration. The carpet has faded spots, and the console paint is scratched in places. That said, it is still tidy enough to tick the boxes for a driver-grade classic. It also features a few desirable options, including the console, factory air conditioning, and Rally Pac gauges. The seller added a retro-style stereo, but the buyer can swap it for a genuine radio if they prefer authenticity.
From its sparkling paint to its factory options, this 1965 Mustang Convertible makes a positive first impression. A closer look reveals rust, which is disappointing, though it isn’t severe. Fixing it would be a rewarding way to spend the winter months, ensuring it is structurally sound when the time for relaxed, sunny cruising arrives. For me, the sticking point is the price, which I believe is optimistic for a car with the issues visible in the seller’s image gallery. Do you agree, or am I wrong? I’m happy to be corrected if that’s the case.
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