The First Generation Mustang has become something of a staple at Barn Finds, and the condition of cars that we have featured over more than a decade has varied widely. This 1966 Convertible could best be described as a tidy driver that can be enjoyed by its new owner immediately. It has some cosmetic needs, but addressing them once winter arrives again would be a rewarding and productive way to occupy those colder months. Its most pressing need is a new home, with the seller listing the Mustang here on eBay in Los Angeles, California. Bidding sits at $6,656, and with No Reserve to confuse matters, someone is mere days away from driving off in this turnkey classic.
The memory of the Edsel debacle remained fresh in the minds of many at Ford when management gave the green light to the Mustang project. What the company needed was a sales success to satisfy shareholders, and the pony car delivered in no uncertain terms. The 1966 model year marked the badge’s high point, with 607,568 buyers splashing their cash on a new Mustang. The Convertible variant proved popular, contributing 72,119 to that tally. The first owner ordered our feature Mustang in Springtime Yellow with the power top in contrasting Black. It would be best to describe this as a tidy driver that has undergone a repaint at some point. That leads us to its greatest weakness, because it appears that the preparation work may not have been completed to a high standard. The new paint is peeling in several locations, exposing the original finish hiding beneath. The problems may be isolated, although bracing to strip away the exterior to make a fresh start would be a wise consideration. One ray of light is this car’s rust-free status, meaning that while the process may prove time-consuming, at least the refresh won’t involve cutting, welding, or any form of panel repairs. There is a stain visible on the passenger-side rocker, but I can’t spot any signs of steel penetration. The soft-top is in good order, as are the trim and glass. Overall, it appears that the winning bidder can take their time to consider what will be the best approach for them.
One of the greatest secrets to the Mustang’s success was the company’s decision to provide something to suit every budget. Buyers in 1966 could opt for an entry-level six, but this car’s first owner teamed the C-code 289ci V8 with a three-speed automatic transmission. With 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal, the performance would be quite sprightly by the standards of the era. The seller confirms that this Convertible recently received a new fuel tank, a battery, and a tune-up. The engine bay presentation is very tidy, with a few cosmetic enhancements that could be removed if the winning bidder craves authenticity. There is plenty of good news, with the appearance not flattering to deceive. This Mustang is ready to hit the road for some classic top-down touring with the new owner behind the wheel.
One of the problems with owning a classic Convertible is that there is no way to hide a substandard interior with the top down. This Mustang isn’t horrendous, but it appears that tape may be hiding a few issues with the seatcovers. It is unclear how severe the problems are and whether they are repairable. Of course, with reproduction covers surprisingly affordable, many people may view replacement as the best long-term solution. Otherwise, the remaining vinyl and plastic are in good order, the carpet is clean, and the dash and pad look nice. The seller added aftermarket air conditioning, and the factory AM radio is intact.
This 1966 Mustang Convertible isn’t perfect, but its tidy presentation and lack of apparent rust help to explain why it has already attracted twenty-seven bids. The listing statistics suggest that the bid tally and price will both climb before the hammer falls. The thought of enjoying all that it offers during the warm months and addressing its cosmetic needs next winter will appeal to many people, allowing them to place their mark on this classic. Are you tempted to do so by joining what is fast becoming a bidding war? I wish you luck if you do.
Thank you Adam. Though it has its flaws, this still might be a nice top-down driver. I’ve always liked early Mustangs in eye-catching Springtime Yellow with the black contrasts.
Nice driver if it stays under $10K you can fix it as you drive it
On the surface OK? Maybe dig a little deeper!
Hi Barn Finders
This car didn’t come from the factory with a v-8. Through the ebay description vin has a “t” in the place for factory installed engine. That would indicate straight six, not an “a or c” for small block v-8, nor “s” for the big block 390. So I would wonder if it has four or five lug bolt pattern? But I could be wrong.
The car has the 289 V8 emblems on the front fenders. So either the VIN is incorrect may be better to see the VIN tag on the car
If you find a 66 with an”S” code that would be a red flag, but a “K” code was possible. 67 had the first big block.
Like I said, I could’ve been wrong! About the s-code, Oops! And yes I forgot about the k-code also. Thanks for keeping me in touch with fact.
Not too sure I want a car with 1,000,000 miles, as the eBay ad says
Great car. Was originally a 6 cylinder from the factory according to the VIN. Needs to stay below 20 K
I hate it when cars like this come up for bidding with no reserves. It just lets you know you’ve got your work cut out for you to get it at a sweet deal most of the time .
OTH if there is a reserve and it’s not stated you waste time not knowing if you’re bid is high enough.
In the poor quality video, the carpet looks red. The paint definitely is an issue, and I would like to see the door tag to confirm this is a V-8. The VIN indicates it originally was a 6, as Rob mentioned.
Was originally a straight 6 engine with either the 170 cubic inch or the more desirable 200 cubic inch motor.