Finding a classic with a known ownership history and a low odometer reading can be challenging, but this 1996 Ford Mustang GT Convertible ticks those boxes. It has been the pride and joy of an elderly owner since Day One and has a genuine 60,000 miles showing on the clock. It carries the hallmarks of a vehicle that has been treated respectfully and protected from some of the hazards that can take a heavy toll on vehicles over time. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the GT listed here on Craigslist in East Providence, Rhode Island. The seller set their price at $11,999 for a classic that appears to need nothing.
Ford released its Fourth Generation Mustang for the 1994 model year. It bore no physical similarities to the Fox-Body that it replaced, but carried many design cues from the iconic First Generation range. The first owner ordered this classic in 1996, electing to cloak its panels in Black. The seller only recently became its custodian, providing significant information about its history. They sourced it from the original elderly owner, and it has been treated with care and been garage-kept since Day One. The paint retains an impressive depth of color and shine, and any imperfections appear limited to both bumpers. There is visible physical damage to the front, while the paint is also exhibiting deterioration on both bumpers. However, a reputable shop should have no trouble addressing those shortcomings fairly easily. The panels are as straight as an arrow, and the Tan soft-top looks perfect. The positive impression is heightened by the spotless 16″ alloy wheels and the crystal clear glass.
The overall presentation of this Mustang’s exterior makes the interior condition unsurprising. The first owner chose Tan leather trim which shows no undue wear or other problems. The outer seat edges are particularly noteworthy because they have avoided the problems that often plague these classics. The remaining upholstered surfaces and the carpet are excellent, the dash is clean, and the only visible addition is the wheel wrap. This interior isn’t short on creature comforts, with the buyer receiving air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/CD player.
The Fourth Generation Mustang evolved slowly during its first two production years, but 1996 brought the most profound change. After decades of faithful service, Ford quietly retired its venerable 302ci V8. In its place, the Mustang GT received the company’s 4.6-liter “Modular” V8 producing 215hp and 285 ft/lbs of torque. The first owner teamed this motor with a five-speed manual transmission and power assistance for the steering and four-wheel disc brakes. Performance was pretty respectable by the standards of the day, and this classic should still provide a rewarding driving experience. The seller doesn’t indicate whether they hold evidence verifying that the odometer reading of 60,000 miles is genuine, but the car’s ownership experience makes that possible. The GT recently received new tires and a new battery and appears to be a turnkey proposition for its new owner.
I will celebrate my birthday within the next few weeks, and many readers will wonder why that is relevant to the story of this 1996 Mustang GT Convertible. However, it is a landmark where our government will consider me to be a “Senior Citizen.” Some will immediately have visions in their head of a gray-haired guy wandering along at 50mph in the fast lane, but that is far from the truth. I still love nothing better than to slip behind the wheel for some spirited motoring. The difference between me today and forty years ago is that I have a deeper understanding of the concept of mechanical sympathy. It means that I can push a car hard without overly stressing its drivetrain. The history of this Mustang suggests it may have lived that type of life, making it an attractive proposition for potential buyers. That is why it deserves more than a passing glance.
Nice write up. As a 72-year old owner of a 1995 Corvette in similar condition and with similar mileage, I get the concept of “mechanical sympathy”. I have noticed that for the first time in 40 years of Corvette ownership, I am starting to think about whether continued ownership is justified, and maybe it is time for a “practical” car I can drive 12 months a year. That’s scary.
Frank …replacing your beloved, classic daily driver is a big step- you will miss your Corvette but a pause is OK.
Maybe just a break – borrow a family members car – and you may find it is not so great.
I am near 70 (dang!) And still drive a 1969 Ford like the one my HS pal bought in ’77. Nostalgia is a big part as well of the experience and might be part of your Vette ownership.
I would have a pro look over this GT for a total eyes wide open on cost to fix bumpers, etc.
Every driver has their match in a car – this one seems affordable (?).
@Torino- I like the way you think! We may have the makings of a support group here.
Add me to that support group, Frank…I’m the grey haired 87 y.o. owner of a 2003 Mustang GT convertible, True Blue with tan interior and top, power everything, A/C, 5 speed stick, and–drum roll, please–just a bit under 50k on the speedo… with no rust in sight. I bought it from a Cleveland dealer in 2010 when it had less than 9,000 miles on it and winter snow was on the way!
Nice looking Mustang. Black and tan pair well together. Everyone has a yearning for their youth. I’m now the stereotype gray haired guy driving the convertible. A role I’ll assume readily.
I raise my hand to second the opinions stated here. I am now “that guy” after all this time trying to not become my father. Now, my Father has been elevated to someone deserving of capitalization as I have learned to appreciate his accomplishments. Everyone gets here eventually. I’m just trying to limit the kicking and screaming, as I cannot find any dignity in that approach. Beautiful Mustang.
Fellow gray haired 72 yr old sports car guy. 2001 Miata LS, black and tan. Owned it forever, bought to revisit my British sports car youth. Still drive it with vim and vigor, but I take better care of it than my cars of youth. I would never get rid of it.
I had a 2000 model hardtop same basic style I didn’t like how close the headliner was to the top of my head , never sat in a convertible to see if it had the same issue.
I’m 87. Owned several 4.6 Mustangs, Didn’t ” Like” any of them. Now my Daily Driver is a Ford Expedition and my Saturday Night Special is an 800hp 97 Ford Ranger. ” Don’t let the old man in”Clint Eastwood
The most collectible Mustangs of these model years are the Cobras. This GT could fool some people, as the black/tan theme was common on the Cobras. This example looks good, and the car appears to be in excellent condition. Not expensive. Lots to like here.
I guess I’m “that guy” too.
Daily drive a 2025 Mazda CX-30,just right size,but really enjoy my 66′ Mustang.
I guess I match that scenario to, 76 have 2004 GT 40th.Anniversary trim convertible in Silver with no stripes.My car isn’t supposed to exist, 40th.
Anniversary convertibles were only one color, but mine has proper code on data plate for silver, and build sheet says 40th. anniversary trim so you decide.Got it from another old guy, who had owned it for 15 years,he bought it from original buyer, who bought it for his wife.Car is in good shape, except for some garage rash on right rear wheel arch with an amateur repair, and non matching color.Put on new top last year, this year’s project is new seat covers, and refurb of plastic trim.Did all maintenance and replaced a lot of under hood parts, coils, plugs,injectors,and hoses and belts.But still intend to have a lot of top down cruising this summer.
Nobody has mentioned the potential new seat cover on the drivers side. Doesn’t match that worn leather look like the passengers side and the color is off slightly. Just being picky on a well preserved Stang, GLWS!