Possible Engine Upgrade? 1965 Ford Mustang

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First Generation Mustangs are almost the automotive equivalent of Lego Blocks. That isn’t a criticism, but merely recognition that they offer endless possibilities for adding and removing components to create the car of your dreams. This 1965 Mustang is a prime example, because enthusiasts who crave additional performance could easily bolt something more potent under the hood without spending a fortune. The interest generated since it hit the market suggests that there are plenty of people who might consider turning this classic into a bit of a weapon. The seller listed the Mustang here on eBay in Sunnyvale, California. They set their BIN at $6,000 with the option to make an offer.

It is undeniable that Ford hit a sweet spot when it unveiled the Mustang in 1964. The company found itself in an enviable position, struggling to meet buyer demand as 559,451 buyers took one home in 1965. This Hardtop left the line that year, and appears to have been ordered by its first owner in Tropical Turquoise. The White stripes are a later addition, and the baked appearance reflects long-term exposure to harsh UV rays. The seller’s listing images and description are sadly lacking, but I see no evidence of significant rust issues. There appear to be some small developing bubbles behind the passenger-side rear wheel arch, but none in the remaining lower extremities. We can’t see the driver’s side, and there are no underside images. However, the car’s location may have protected it from the issues that often plague these classics. The grille is damaged, but most of the remaining trim and the glass should be acceptable for a driver-grade build.

This Mustang’s Blue and White “Pony” interior is a mixed bag, but whipping it into shape for a driver-grade result may not be difficult or expensive. The shopping list will include a new dashpad and carpet set, but the remaining upholstered surfaces should look acceptable after a deep clean. There are no visible rips or tears, although the buyer may need to glue the door trim edges where the vinyl has lifted. I will qualify that statement, because the rear seat may be beginning to deteriorate in the upper backrest area due to UV exposure. The radio is swinging in the breeze, and wires hang below the dash. Overall, it may take more time than money to whip the inside into shape. The seller provides no engine bay shots, but it appears this Mustang features an entry-level mechanical configuration. It is powered by a 200ci six, feeding 120hp to the rear wheels via a three-speed manual transmission. Performance won’t be exceptional, which may prompt some potential buyers to contemplate an engine transplant. The world will be their oyster, and they will be spoiled for choice if they pursue that path. However, with this classic recently receiving a new carburetor, exhaust, radiator, and fuel lines, the impression is that it is a turnkey proposition. If so, the new owner can take their time as they weigh up their options.

I find it unsurprising that this 1965 Ford Mustang has attracted over 400 views in the past day. The seller’s price falls within an affordable territory, and while their information is limited, it appears to be a rock-solid project candidate. The big question is what the buyer might do once this icon is safely parked in their garage. It is a prime candidate for a faithful restoration, although upgrading the drivetrain to unleash improved performance would be easy. I’m not sure which path I would follow, and it will be fascinating to gauge your opinions and see whether we have readers who might pursue this classic further.

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Comments

  1. OpaJimMember

    Not a simple swap. Even the wheels must be changed from 4 bolt to 5 bolt and many other bits and pieces to make it a V8 clone. Better to find an original V8.

    Like 4
  2. RayTMember

    Why swap? It has been done so many times that original six-cylinder cars are becoming a vanishing breed.

    Like 4

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