It is a question I have always pondered. To what point must a classic deteriorate before it is genuinely beyond salvation? That is the big one hanging over this 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible. It is a sad, sorry sight, with plenty of rust requiring attention before the buyer could consider it to be structurally sound. The interior is missing key components, and anyone contemplating a restoration will compile a long shopping list before they lift a spanner. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Zappenduster for spotting the Mustang listed here on Facebook Marketplace in Hartford, Wisconsin. The seller’s price of $2,000 reflects the work required to whip this classic into shape.
It’s quite hard to know where to start with this Mustang, but it possesses one interesting mystery. The paint cloaking its exterior is Rangoon Red, with that color extending to almost every visible interior painted surface. However, the Body Tag lists a paint shade of “8,” which corresponds to Springtime Yellow, a color Ford didn’t offer to Mustang buyers in the 1965 model year. I can’t see any evidence of Yellow anywhere, so the new owner may decide to investigate. My greatest concern surrounds the gap between the driver’s door and the front fender. It’s enormous! That is typically an indication of major structural issues, and I wonder whether this Convertible is ready to snap in half at the slightest provocation. With the amount of rust present in areas like the floor, it is very possible. Most trim pieces require restoration or replacement, but the glass is clear.
The interior shots reveal the difference between flawless and floorless. There is plenty of visible rust, and we can speculate about what lies beneath the heavy accumulation of leaf litter. The interior is missing the seats and other components, and it appears that very little is salvageable. With a shredded soft-top, water will have found its way behind the dash, placing a question mark over electrical components. Sadly, this Mustang doesn’t redeem itself by featuring a V8 under the hood. It features the T-Code 200ci six, producing 120hp and 190 ft/lbs of torque. The car currently houses a four-speed manual transmission, but the seller includes the original three-speed for anyone contemplating a faithful restoration. The health of these components is unclear, but bracing for the worst would probably be wise.
There is really no way to sugar-coat it; This 1965 Mustang Convertible looks pretty awful. From its rust issues to the missing parts, returning it to its former glory would be a major undertaking that won’t suit the faint-hearted. I tend to think that its future will be to serve as a donor for other projects, and the most valuable feature is its clear title. Do you agree, or is this a project that you would seriously consider?
Even in this condition, it still looks better than any 74′-78′ Mustang II.
This car is somewhere between $500 to $1000.00 dollar car at best. If had the money and a crazy dream, maybe but their are way to many Mustang for sale that this car would be anything but a labor and bill fold of love.