Solid and Original: 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible

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With so many 1st Generation Mustangs experiencing significant rust damage, finding a solid survivor is always a nice experience. That appears to be the story behind this particular car, which is not only solid but is very original. It has been garage-kept since 1992 but is now ready to find its way to a new home. The Mustang is located in Salt Lake City, Utah, and is listed for sale here on eBay. Bidding on the Mustang has now made its way to $11,101, but the reserve hasn’t been met.

The Mustang presents quite well, having received a repaint in its original Springtime Yellow back in the 1970s. There are a few chips and marks on the paint, but nothing of any real significance. Not only do the panels appear to be free of any rust, but the owner supplies photos of the floors and frame, and there are no signs of any problems This Mustang appears to be as solid as a rock, with little more than a few spots of very minor dry surface corrosion visible. The Black manual soft-top is in good order, and the rear window seems to have avoided developing the sort of cloudy appearance that can afflict these Convertibles. The remaining glass is in good order, while the external trim and chrome also present nicely.

This is a car that seems to have plenty of positive attributes, and while the interior might not be perfect, there really isn’t a whole lot to criticize. The first thing to note is the fact that it is very original, with no obvious aftermarket additions. The dash still houses its factory radio, and it, along with the cap, appears to be faultless. The upholstered surfaces look to be in great order, while the carpet looks incredible. The owner doesn’t mention this ever being replaced, but I think that it really looks too good to be original. The only upholstery flaws that have been identified are some seam separations on the base of the passenger seat, along with one small hole in the base of the driver’s seat. I’ve had a good look at both, and I think that these might be able to be repaired if the next owner wants to maintain the vehicle’s originality.

Lifting the hood of the Mustang reveals a C-Code 289ci V8, and a 3-speed automatic transmission. This is a numbers-matching car, and once again, the originality is pretty impressive. The Mustang has apparently been well maintained throughout its life, and beyond normal servicing and tuning, all that it has ever needed is the gaskets replaced on both valve covers. The owner claims that it has a genuine 69,000 miles on the odometer, but doesn’t mention whether this can be verified. This would appear to be a car where the next owner can slide behind the wheel, and hit the open road. It is said to drive beautifully, with the engine feeling strong, the transmission shifting smoothly, no signs of any oil leaks or smokes, and the whole car feeling as tight as a drum.

This Mustang Convertible needs little, especially if the next owner is seeking a clean and tidy driver-quality car. It could certainly be restored to a pristine state, and doing this would seem to be a fairly straightforward task. It is a car that has attracted some strong bidding since it has been listed for sale, which indicates that I’m not the only person who sees the potential that is contained within this 1960s classic.

Auctions Ending Soon

Comments

  1. Gaspumpchas

    Sure looks like a well maintained sweetie, but by virtue of the overspray looks like its been to Maaco, also would like to see under the floor mat. Might want to bring a magnet and inspect bodywork closely if you are serious. Nice to see a nice one like this. Wonder what the reserve is?? Good luck. If this is the real deal i’d drive it as is!
    Cheers
    GPC

    Like 3
  2. grant

    Obviously a well maintained, restored car. And if the upholstery has already been replaced, (it has) then there is no need to try and repair splits and holes to “maintain originality.” Not sure why the author would say this in the sentence after stating he thinks it’s not original. So just order new seat covers and cruise it.

    Like 0
  3. SteVen

    Looks like a car that has had bodywork and paint and probably new carpet but is otherwise mostly original in terms of mechanical, seats, etc. I have a ’66 hardtop with 35K miles that was my grandma’s from new and this reminds me a lot of my car and the work I’ve had done.

    Like 0
  4. Bob_in_TN Bob_in_TNMember

    For someone who wants to be in the old car hobby but wants it to be as enjoyable and stress-free as possible, it is hard to beat a first generation Mustang:

    They are simple cars. Parts availability is excellent, both for mechanical pieces and for cosmetics. Easy to work on, most any old-school mechanic can keep them running. Decent power, can keep up with modern traffic. Everyone had one, makes for fun conversations at cruise-ins. You can modify or keep them stock, both have their benefits and proponents. Many to choose from. Excluding certain models, not very expensive. As always, buy the nicest one you can afford– avoid the rusty ones (of which there unfortunately are many).

    This is a nice example.

    Like 8
    • Claudio

      Well said, i totally agree

      Like 3
  5. TimM

    A rag top makes it a lot more fun cruising!! The V-8 though not a racing motor will give plenty of power!! I’m sure there’s been more done then the seller is letting on but a beautiful car never the less!!!

    Like 3
  6. Bob S

    $16.2k, reserve still not met. Nice early ‘stang.

    Like 0

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