Finding a classic that isn’t totally original but is a rock-solid driver can be attractive to many. When a seller lists such a car with No Reserve, it might suddenly become irresistible. Such is the story of this 1968 Ford Mustang. It presents exceptionally well, and while it features modifications, it could still turn heads wherever it goes. Its next journey will almost certainly be to a new home, with the seller listing the Mustang here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. Subdued bidding has pushed the price to $15,400, but with No Reserve in play, it may not take much effort to park this gem in your garage.
Certain paint shades look “right” on some cars, which is true with this Mustang and the Candy Apple Red gracing its panels. It is unclear whether it received repairs or restoration, but the shine is pretty impressive. If there are any defects in it or the steel, they are too insignificant to show in the supplied photos. Contrasting the Red are Black stripes and a matching vinyl top. They are in as-new condition, helping this classic pony car to make a positive impression. The seller indicates it is a dry-climate vehicle, making its rust-free status unsurprising. The exterior is clean, while the underside shots reveal no issues with the traditional Mustang weak points. The trim and glass are immaculate, and the shiny new Magnum 500 wheels and tires from the good folks at BF Goodrich add the perfect finishing touch.
I am sure that this Mustang is not numbers-matching. The VIN indicates it rolled off the line powered by a C-Code 289ci V8, but the seller confirms that the engine bay houses a 302ci powerplant. Its specifications are unclear, but it sends its power to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission. The F-Code 302 that became available in 1968 delivered 210hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque, placing a sub-16-second ¼-mile ET within reach. The seller claims this Mustang has a genuine 76,354 miles on the clock, although no mention is made of supporting evidence. I always question the value of such claims if the car has received a significant drivetrain upgrade, but opinions differ on the subject. However, it is a turnkey proposition that only sees active service for weekend outings. It runs and drives perfectly, ready to give the winning bidder immediate classic motoring fun.
The theme of impressive presentation continues when we examine this Mustang’s interior. The seller describes the interior as “all original,” although the sports wheel, radio/cassette player, and B&M shifter weren’t there when the car rolled off the line. I’m confident they used that term to describe the trim and upholstery, and if this is true, it indicates the car has always been treated respectfully. There is no wear or physical damage and no signs of UV impact. This last point is critical, seemingly supporting the claim the Mustang has always remained garaged when not in use. The interior appears to need nothing, and while there are modifications, it would still be a pleasant place to spend time as the miles roll under the tires.
Many enthusiasts aspire to park a totally original classic in their garage. Still, with the values of many of the more desirable candidates climbing mercilessly, that becomes merely a dream for some. There is no shame in turning their attention to a modified vehicle, particularly if the changes are sympathetic. That could perfectly describe this 1968 Mustang. If anything surprises me, it is the fact it has only received four bids. It might not be the most desirable version on the planet, but it is a 1960s pony car with a V8 under the hood and no apparent needs. With sluggish bidding and No Reserve, someone might become its new owner without much effort and at a modest cost. Does that tempt you to pursue it further?
That, folks, is one fine car. Like the man said, it pushes all my buttons.
This little puppy is right up my alley. It’d be great to have this when I visit Vegas. Alas, it does need AC but having two 68 Mustangs, one East and one West would be something.
I’m with you bobhess. Everyone loves a fastback, but for me a dressed-up coupe like this one is hard to beat. That aftermarket shifter is kind of jarring but otherwise not much to complain about.
Love the sedan, coupe, notchback, trunk Mustangs. 🐎
Very pretty notchback.Red is the perfect color.
Looks like this car is not originally from Nevada. The rear quarters must have been replaced because there are no side marker lights, a ’68 requirement. Fronts are there. And there are metal patches on the front aprons next to the front fenders. If the VIN indicates a 289 then maybe it was a very early model year build. Price is ok but look closely for that much money.
Anyone truly interested in this car would be well advised to do an in person inspection before committing to a bid. The quarters most likely have been replaced as the rear side reflectors are now missing. It has the typical rust holes where the inner fender aprons meet the shock towers that have been poorly repaired. The left door latch was cracked where it bolts to the door shell and that too has been very poorly repaired. With “repairs” like these it makes me wonder how other repairs were made.
That left rear wheel lip looks suspect to me.
I agree and additionally the right rear interior panel looks to have bee through a fairly significant collision with that crease and wrinkled head liner. the left door latch as you pointed out is hideous and extremely amateur. The engine compartment is rough and been painted a number of times, even over grease and dirt. The missing side marker lights are a dead giveaway.
Missing fender bolts on passenger side?
Agreed. Careful with this one.
Not sure the story with the engine in this one, but the numbers matching ’68 notchback I had up until recently had 289 on the build sheet but was assembled with a 302. It was built in April when the 289 was being replaced by the 302.
Absolutely a beautiful car. I agree with a lot of the comments but am surprised no one mentioned the rust in the lower driver’s side door jam. All that work and to not try and at least knock the rust off and color it over. I mean would look better than a big ole rusty spot. Lol
Nothing wrong with a sheet metal repair if it’s done right. I personally dig the the trunk ones myself. I’ve restored many cars in my day. A 302 swap ain’t a bad thing folks. What are you really looking for? I prefer a driver with smart mods done on it. Not a museum piece. I did a mustang once. A 1972 notch. 351 Cleveland 3 spd auto . The paint work was unreal. We bought a Mach one hood for it. Then harvest green and painted Mach one stripes in gold metallic. Perfect match of the decals. Got a set of 15″ mag 500 wheels. Car was a brute. Looked great. Bet it still does. Only thing I really hate is the steering wheel. I’d spring for a real nardi wheel. That and the pile of wires on the floor…..still great driver. Make it your own .