This 1965 Mustang has occupied this spot in the seller’s garage for thirty-five years. The dry environment means it should be rock-solid, although it is begging for TLC. The lack of apparent rust makes it ideal for someone considering a first project because most of its shortcomings could be addressed in a home workshop. It retains its numbers-matching drivetrain. Therefore, returning it to its factory form is an achievable goal. The Mustang is listed here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. The seller set their BIN at $14,936 with the option to make an offer.

Ford undeniably had a hit on its hands with the First Generation Mustang. Demand far outstripped the company’s initial expectations and production capacity. However, it soon hit its straps, with 559,451 cars finding homes during the first full production year. This Hardtop is a tired-looking vehicle, with its Wimbledon White paint well past its best. Its history is unclear beyond its years in hibernation. However, it appears to have spent its life in a dry climate. That should be good news for potential buyers, minimizing the chances that they face significant rust repairs. The seller doesn’t mention hidden issues in the floors, rails, or torque boxes. The lower passenger door corners exhibit some spots, but the lower extremities look clean and sound. The panels wear an assortment of minor imperfections, and when combined with the paint deterioration, dismantling the car entirely might be the best approach to achieve a high-end result. Many trim pieces require restoration or replacement, although the glass looks okay.

This Mustang is consistent, with its interior requiring the same level of TLC as its exterior. A retrim is the only option, and the approach will depend on the new owner’s vision. Complete kits to obtain a factory-fresh state are readily available, which will probably be the path most enthusiasts consider. However, other options are there for those contemplating a custom approach. The factory radio is out of the car but is included. This Mustang will undoubtedly score points with some people, courtesy of the original owner’s decision to add the factory console.

Powering this Mustang is a numbers-matching 289ci V8, which I believe is the C-Code version. That would send 200hp and 282 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission. This was the least potent V8 variant available in 1965, but its performance would have satisfied all but the most hardened enthusiast. It is unclear whether the Mustang is roadworthy, but the seller recently spent a considerable sum on its brakes and suspension. It features new brake shoes, wheel cylinders, brake lines, tie rods, and an idler arm. The wheels were cleaned and fitted with new tires, while new studs and lug nuts round out the package. That lot cost them $2,900 but represents an excellent starting point for those wishing to return this classic to active service.

If this 1965 Mustang Hardtop is as structurally sound as the listing and images suggest, it is a prime project candidate. It needs work, although, with values climbing, First Generations almost invariably represent a sound financial investment. This could be a $30,000 plus car following a faithful restoration, but $40,000 awaits an owner who achieves perfection. It is possible that the budget could blow out beyond the lower figure if the new owner isn’t hands-on. However, future appreciation means that it may only be short-term pain for long-term gain. I believe it will find a new home, but is it a project you might pursue further?