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Rust-Free Survivor: 1965 Ford Mustang GT

One of the challenges facing buyers searching for a turnkey First Generation Mustang is finding an unmolested and rust-free candidate. They are out there, but sometimes potential buyers need to wade through a mass of unsuitable vehicles before an appropriate candidate appears. If you are one of those people, this 1965 Mustang GT might look pretty attractive. It meets the listed criteria and needs a new home with an owner ready to appreciate the classic motoring experience. You will find the GT for sale here on Craigslist in Raleigh, North Carolina. The seller set their price for this survivor at $32,900.

This Mustang is a two-owner survivor that has spent most of its life in Georgia. The indications are it has been treated respectfully because its Vintage Burgundy paint shines beautifully. A close inspection may reveal marks or scratches, but the photos make a positive first impression. The panels are as straight as an arrow, while the gaps look tight and consistent. First Generation Mustangs have a well-earned reputation for rust problems, but this GT has avoided them effortlessly. Not only is it rust-free, but there are no patches, Bondo, or other evidence of prior rust repairs. That bodes well for potential buyers, although an in-person inspection would have no trouble confirming this. The trim is in above-average condition for a survivor, with the correct GT badges and the grille with floodlights all present. The glass looks flawless, and the wire hubcaps offer the perfect finishing touch to the exterior.

Lifting the hood reveals this GT’s A-Code 289ci V8 that should produce 225hp and 305 ft/lbs of torque. Those ponies feed to the back wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission, blessing the Mustang with the ability to gallop through the ¼ mile in 15.8 seconds. The original owner ordered the car with front disc brakes, but I’m surprised they didn’t select power assistance for them or the steering. The seller doesn’t supply specific information on how this classic runs or drives, but their emphasis on its excellent condition, combined with the engine bay presentation, suggests it should be a turnkey proposition for the buyer. They state it has a genuine 55,000 miles on its odometer, but there is no mention of verifying evidence. However, the Mustang’s condition makes the claim seem plausible.

The Mustang’s interior ticks some crucial boxes, the first of which is that it is as unmolested as the rest of the vehicle. Apart from a wheel wrap, I can’t spot any aftermarket additions. The Black vinyl upholstery looks nice for its age, with no wear or physical damage. There is none of the typical carpet fading we often see, with the dash and pad looking spotless. The original AM radio occupies its rightful place in the dash, while the car also features air conditioning, a console, and a remote driver’s mirror.

There’s a lot to like about this 1965 Mustang GT, from its originality to a rust-free history. It isn’t perfect, but its condition won’t cause its new owner shame during weekend outings or when they attend a Cars & Coffee. It has no apparent needs, and if a potential buyer can confirm the odometer reading, it lifts its desirability a notch or two. The asking price is hardly pocket change, but it does appear competitive. With First Generation Mustang values continuing to climb, it is a classic that is ready for fun that would also be an excellent long-term investment. I’ve been trying to find a negative in that scenario and can’t think of one. That makes it tempting, but is it enough for you to yield to that temptation?

Comments

  1. Avatar photo Joe

    Front disc brakes came standard with the GT but power assistance wasn’t available until 1967.

    Like 5
  2. Avatar photo 4Quarts

    Here’s a Beautiful Survivor, I think my ’65 Convertible is Jealous.

    Like 1
  3. Avatar photo Jack R

    If you look closely at image number 21 of the VIN tag, it looks like the car has been repainted

    Like 0
  4. Avatar photo 19sixty5 Member

    Are those 289 Hi-Po emblems on the fenders? Not the first time emblems got switched!

    Like 0

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