The word “icon” is probably one of the most overused in the classic world. However, there are few better ways to describe the Ford Mustang. Hiding in this barn is a 1965 Mustang that has sat for a few years. It once saw regular use following its restoration but hasn’t been on the road for a while. It shows promise beneath the layer of dust, offering its new owner a couple of options to improve its appearance once it returns to its rightful place on our roads. The seller has listed the Mustang here on eBay in Grapevine, Texas. Bidding sits below the reserve at $ 4,550, with a BIN of $7,500 for those viewing this classic as a must-have.

The First Generation Mustang created a sensation upon its release, justifying Ford’s faith when 559,451 buyers took one home during the first full production year. This Hardtop was one of those cars, with the seller listing it on behalf of their father-in-law. They state that it underwent a restoration a few years ago, and the Raven Black paint hiding beneath the dust exhibits a promising shine. There are no glaring cosmetic problems, although the image quality makes it impossible to be certain. The panels look straight, and the seller believes that this dry-climate classic is rust-free. The trim condition is acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle, and the glass seems clear.

This Mustang represents why the badge was a runaway success. Its first owner equipped it with a T-Code 200ci six-cylinder engine and a three-speed manual transmission. That made it the cheapest version available in 1965, and while the buyer didn’t receive scintillating performance, they still slipped behind the wheel of a car with stunning good looks at an affordable price. Ford quoted a power output of 120hp for the six, providing performance on par with that of an average family sedan. Of course, splashing extra cash brought a V8 to the party, increasing the driving pleasure. The seller states that this Hardtop saw regular action following its restoration, but it has been hibernating for a while. They don’t specify a time frame, but the bulletproof nature of the mechanical components could make revival pretty straightforward and inexpensive.

I would describe this Mustang’s interior as tidy and serviceable. It is an area where the buyer could make their mark if they wanted this classic to “pop.” The driver’s seat shows a couple of seam separations, there are a couple of splits in the headliner, and some pieces of Red vinyl trim are discolored. However, since the carpet, dash, and pad are in good condition, I don’t believe that a complete retrim is justified. Purchasing individual pieces would be cheaper, and the inside of this Mustang would be as pretty as a picture with those items installed. Aftermarket additions include air conditioning (a wise move for a Texas car wearing Black paint) and a radio/cassette player.

Some readers may immediately dismiss this 1965 Mustang, citing the lack of a V8 under the hood as justification. That’s a fair call, because it is in that form that the First Generation Mustang is at its most desirable. However, if it is as rust-free as the seller suspects, this car could be an ideal, affordable candidate for an engine upgrade. Slotting something period-correct under the hood would be easy and relatively cheap, or the buyer could throw caution to the wind with a restomod approach. Personally, I’d revive it now, enjoy the ownership experience, and consider my options later. Do you agree?