Project candidates don’t come much better than this 1964½ Ford Mustang Convertible. It has spent decades in storage, only emerging as the seller prepares it to find a new home. It features its original 289ci V8 under the hood, teamed with a four-speed manual transmission. It needs plenty of work, but its relative rarity makes it worth the effort. The seller has listed the Mustang here on eBay in Strasburg, Colorado. A solitary bid of $5,000 is below the reserve, but there is a BIN option of $10,500 for enthusiasts viewing the Convertible as a must-have item.
Some new model launches occur while barely raising a ripple, but Ford’s decision to unveil the Mustang at the 1964 World’s Fair caused a sensation. Crowds flocked to see the company’s new pony car, and sales were strong. This first-year Convertible is a project candidate, finished in iconic Rangoon Red with a contrasting White soft-top. The seller indicated it has sat for decades, requiring total restoration to recapture its former glory. The panels are pretty straight, and any exterior rust is relatively minor. However, delving below the surface reveals the typical rust we have grown to know and love in the floors and rails. Common sense suggests that stripping this classic to the last nut and bolt would be a sensible approach to return the body to a structurally sound, rust-free state. The soft-top could be okay with the back window replaced, although enthusiasts seeking a high-end result may opt to replace it. The bright trim might be okay once polished, and this classic retains its original steel wheels and hubcaps.
This Mustang’s interior is a surprise package when you look beyond the accumulated dust. Its Red vinyl upholstered surfaces are free from wear and marks, and the back seat appears to have rarely seen use. The carpet will look very nice once cleaned, while the dash and pad are free from problems. The first owner’s decision to tick the boxes on the Order Form beside the console and pushbutton radio provides a luxurious feel and increases the car’s desirability.
The secret to the Mustang’s initial success was due to clever marketing and an excellent options system. Buyers could order a 1964½ powered by a 170ci six-cylinder engine, combining stunning good looks with affordability. Those seeking more power could opt for the 260ci V8, but the arrival of the 289ci powerplant cemented the badge’s performance credentials. The 260 placed 164hp and 258 ft/lbs of torque at the driver’s disposal. However, the D-Code 289 boosted those figures to 210hp and 300 ft/lbs. Suddenly, the Mutang was less of a pony than a galloping thoroughbred. Don’t be fooled by appearances, because this Convertible retains its numbers-matching D-Code, teamed with a four-speed manual transmission. A previous owner rebuilt the engine, but never coaxed it into life. It turns freely, but the visible corrosion extends into the cylinder head ports. Therefore, another rebuild may be required to guarantee this car’s mechanical health. It looks incomplete, but the image gallery confirms that most of this motor’s ancillary components are included.
Early examples of the Ford Mustang typically attract attention when they hit the market, and this 1964½ Convertible is no exception. Although it emerged during a shortened model year, the company sold 121,538 vehicles by year-end. That figure is quite impressive as a four-month tally, but it also represents the lowest “annual” figure during the First Generation’s entire production run. I don’t think the seller will have much trouble securing a sale for this Mustang, but are you tempted to be the lucky new owner?
289/4sp. is a great combo. Thanks for the good article Clarkey 👍
the door tag looks as it had some paint work done on it at one time