The 1966 model year marked what many would consider the high point for the First Generation Mustang. More potent and highly desirable versions were waiting in the wings, but the Mustang set a sales record that many manufacturers envied. By the end of the model year, an incredible 607,568 people had given a Mustang a new home. This car is a rock-solid survivor and would suit an enthusiast seeking a hands-on project. It runs and drives, meaning the winning bidder could indulge in some classic motoring fun before picking up their tools. The Mustang is listed here on eBay in Sacramento, California. Bidding sits at $11,000 in a No Reserve auction.

I’m always astounded that owners list cars like this Mustang and choose not to take decent photos. Plenty of space is available around this classic to get some clear side and front shots, but this one is about as good as it gets. However, there is much that can be confirmed with what we have. The original owner ordered this car in Candy Apple Red, and whether it has undergone any restoration work is unclear. The paint shows the type of baked deterioration you might expect from any classic from this location. The climate that inflicts that damage can preserve steel, and the winning bidder will benefit from that. There could be some minor rust developing in the passenger side lower rear quarter panel, but the poor photo quality means that it could be an illusion. The remaining prone areas are clean, and the underside shots confirm this classic is rock-solid. Most panels are straight, with only the hood sporting appreciable damage. The seller recommends replacing this and with reproductions retailing for around $200, it hardly seems worth the effort to attempt to repair the existing damage. The trim might respond positively to polish, but the buyer may need to brace for replacing some items. Most of the glass looks good, except the windshield, which is cracked. This beauty rolls on a set of factory chromed steel wheels that help lift the appearance to a higher level.

This Mustang’s interior is original, with no visible additions beyond the dash cover. It shows its age in many areas, and only an in-person inspection will confirm what is salvageable. The seats might be okay with a thorough clean, but items like the headliner, carpet, and rear parcel tray are destined for the skip. We can’t see the state of the pad under the cover, the wheel is cracked, and the faux chrome on the gauge bezel has worn away. Buying individual items is possible, but a new owner seeking a high-end result may splash $1,600 on a trim kit. That would contain almost everything required to recapture its former glory, and an additional $100 would add a high-quality bezel to the mix. With those items installed, this interior would shine like a new penny.

Most enthusiasts seeking a Mustang restoration project focus on candidates with a V8 under the hood. This car doesn’t disappoint, although it is the least potent variant. The C-Code 289 sends 200hp to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission. It features power steering, but the brakes are unassisted. The power output gives this car respectable performance, but squeezing extra ponies from the V8 is not difficult or expensive for an owner unconcerned about originality. Potential buyers will be pleased to learn that this Mustang runs and drives. It is a roadworthy classic the new owner can enjoy immediately while deciding how to tackle their build.

I would typically expect a First Generation Mustang V8 project vehicle, especially one that is rock-solid and roadworthy, to attract fierce bidding. That hasn’t been the case with this car. It has attracted a solitary bid, and I ask myself why. There are no glaring rust or structural issues that I can spot, and its roadworthy state suggests it is not a mechanical basket case. The poor photo quality might be the culprit, but potential buyers could use those to their advantage. Unless the situation changes as the auction draws to a close, securing this rough diamond with a single bid could be possible. Does that tempt you to monitor this listing to the end?