Some classics hit the market, creating barely a ripple. Others make a splash, and this 1966 Mustang falls into that category. It is understandable because it is an unmolested one-owner vehicle as solid as the day it rolled off the line. It runs and drives well, and the comprehensive selection of supplied photos suggests it has nothing to hide. The seller has listed the Mustang here on eBay in Clermont, Florida. Bidding has raced to $10,451 in a No Reserve auction.
The 1966 model year was the high water mark for the First Generation Mustang. Manufacturers often dream of that elusive moment where demand is so great it is impossible to meet, and with 607,568 buyers driving a Mustang off the lot that year, Ford made that dream a reality. This Mustang retains its original Emberglo paint, which shows its age on close inspection. The seller emphasizes it has never undergone repairs, and there is no Bondo hiding to cause future heartache. This car leaves me torn because it is a prime candidate for a faithful restoration. However, with the underside shots confirming this classic is rust-free and as solid as the day it was born, preserving it as a genuine survivor would prove tempting. The panels are generally straight, and although some trim shows minor deterioration, it is intact, and its condition is acceptable for a survivor or a driver-grade restoration.
Enthusiasts with an eye on originality will rejoice that this Mustang is numbers-matching. Its original owner selected the C-Code 289ci V8, a three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. The C-code produces 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque, making the Mustang a competent performer. Extracting extra power is straightforward and inexpensive, although the originality of this classic would prompt me to leave it untouched. The motor wears an aftermarket air cleaner, but the seller includes the factory unit for those preferring a stock look. They claim it has a genuine 72,000 miles on the clock without mentioning supporting evidence. The Mustang is a turnkey proposition that can be driven immediately on a cross-country adventure. The seller supplies this YouTube video of the car in action, and I can’t spot any problems.
The first owner obviously sought something special with this Mustang’s interior, ordering it with an Emberglo and Parchment Pony trim package. They added a factory console and an AM radio, creating an interior that would have been the envy of many in 1966. It remains original and unmolested, with no evidence of aftermarket additions. It isn’t perfect, with a few flaws and defects the buyer could address at their leisure. The driver’s seat has a seam separation, and it would be worth consulting a reputable upholsterer for repairs to preserve the car’s originality. The painted surfaces have deteriorated, and the wheel is cracked. However, recapturing something close to its former glory would be easy and inexpensive.
Twenty-six bids. That figure demonstrates that this 1966 Mustang has generated interest since hitting the market. It might not be a potent and desirable GT, but its originality will appeal to purists intent on preservation. With No Reserve in play, it will head to a new home in under a week. It is a turnkey proposition, so are you tempted to become the winning bidder so you can fly in and drive it home? I won’t blame you if you do.
Another nice driver-condition early Mustang. My favorite color for 1966 Fords. Coupled with the two-tone interior, after a paint job it would look spectacular. Someone will have fun with this one.
I had a ‘71 Camaro RS painted Emberglo. Loved the color.
Lots of “paint correction” magic techniques available today that would help rejuvenate the paint. Thankfully, the days of an expensive repaint being the only option are over.
With the cost of new cars and all of their complexity , this could be had for about 75% less than a new car. Why not daily this?
A C-code, by definition, cannot be numbers matching.
Auction has ended
Emberglo with matching deluxe interior is a fantastic combination, and the car’s originality is impressive. However, it’s not correct to say an early Mustang is “numbers-matching” unless it’s equipped with the K-code high performance 289. Those were the only engines stamped with a partial VIN. For more ordinary engines, the best you can do is verify that casting dates on engine components are close to, but not after, the car’s build date.
Sold locally, so auction cancelled? Decided to keep it, or the guy who shot the crappy YT video decided to buy it?
Nice, but it would be much better with another pedal on the floor.
Super carleave it drive it Dannys Mustangs
There are certain colors that, at least to me, look nicer on first generation Mustangs than others… And this color, most certainly is at the top of that list. And that Interior, absolutely beautiful. I can imagine the original owner spotting this beauty in the showroom and just going All In and splurging and getting this Mustang. Must have been their pride and joy for sure.