Talk about being in the right place at the right time. Ford redesigned its Mustang pony car in 1974 to be smaller and lighter, which resulted in better fuel economy. Also, they wanted sales to rebound. And the new Mustang II came along about the time the OPEC oil embargo struck and sent buyers scrambling for economy cars. The Mustang II lasted for five years, and a new option was added in the final run: T-Tops. Ford called it the T-Roof Convertible, and it only came on hatchbacks. The seller has a really nice edition with a rebuilt drivetrain (maybe). Located in Islip, New York (but wearing Texas plates), this unique Ford is available here on craigslist for $8,900.
The smaller Mustang was still popular in 1978 and would give way to the all-new Foxbody Mustangs in 1979. Out of 192,000 units built in ‘78, more than a third, or 68,000, were the 3-door hatchback model (excluding the Mach 1 and Cobra variants, only available with a hatch). 1978 was the only year you could order a Mustang II with optional T-Tops, though production numbers aren’t known. This car has them, including the bags they could be stored in when not in use.
We’re told this Ford is in outstanding condition, even with 131,000 miles. It has the V6 engine paired with an automatic transmission, and the seller says they were all “gone through” a few years ago – is that another way of saying rebuilt? The white paint job may be original, and we’re told it presents well, as the photos tend to support. The two-tone interior also presents well and could be from the factory.
The seller adds that there are many new parts, including the brakes and suspension. As a result, the Ford performs well and even has fully functional air conditioning. The only noted item for a to-do list is to redo some of the weatherstripping, which the passage of time has worn down. If you consider the Mustang II to be collectible, the T-Tops should add to this one’s appeal. BTW, thanks again; go to Barn Finder Barney for the tip!
I’m not sure what attracted my attention to this Mustang II the most. The T Tops, The really great condition its in, or the fact that somebody out there is actually, and finally selling a vintage vehicle WITH WORKING AIR CONDITIONING!!! All joking aside, this looks like a nice one.
I think someone got a little carried away with the pinstripes. But, other than that, i can’t believe i am saying this, it’s a pretty good looking Mustang II. A 351 sure would wake it up.
Amen to that!
The stripes, and other trim items, mark it as having the Rallye Appearance Package. A look at the factory brochure suggests the upholstery is indeed factory correct, though the brochure color for the insert is gold. I’m guessing this one is correct but faded, but not sure.
Has had some maintenance work. High miles, but overall a nice Mustang II.
Agree with all of Bob’s comments, I’ll only add that the Rallye Appearance Package was offered for two years- 1977 and 1978.
Really nice Mustang. Not a fan of the white paint. This would be a highly desirable car if not for the 2.8 V6 as the more powerful 302 V8 would have been a better choice. Love the T tops .
Which angel would have driven this one?
Sabrina…. Kate Jackson
I wasn’t aware that some Mustangs had the T-Tops. Interesting.
never seen 1 with tops before. neat car but that interior is pretty ugly.
It could use a rear spoiler to finish the look. Looks naked without it.
Nice cruiser for the money. Not a big fan of the smaller Mustang ll, but this is really nice. Like the hatchback too.
In the summer of 1983, I spotted a beautiful silver 1977 Ford Mustang II hatchback for sale at Bowie Ford in Monroe, NC. It was quite nicely equipped, including 302 V8 engine, silver exterior & nice red interior. If I recall, it only had about 55,000 miles on it & drove very nicely. Hate to dispute the claim about the T-top option only available on 78 models, but this 77 had factory T-tops which increased desirability by about 100 %. I only kept the car for about a month, as my meager income during my college years, created a hardship of affordability, between the payments & the fuel penalty of the V8. For some reason, I couldn’t resist the fun of making the tachometer dance & routinely got about 12 miles per gallon. The 302 only had around 140 hp, but it was a rocket considering it only had to propel a 2800 pound vehicle. Of many cool cars I owned during my formative years, this is definitely one I wished I still had in my garage. My other regret was passing on a 77 Ford Bronco also 302 equipped with the modest asking price of $5000.00. It would probably fetch 10 times that price today. Oh well, great memories overall
Fun cruiser.
T-tops were available mid model year 1977.
This one has had the speedometer swapped with one from a 1974 model, so don’t trust the mileage! Engine was originally black with an all blue air cleaner assembly. Looks like a fun way to get into the hobby.