1966 Ford Mustang 1st Gen (1965-1966)

1966 Ford Mustang Coupé assembled at the San Jose factory in late December 1965 and retaining its original V8 289ci C-code engine, 2-barrel Autolite carburettor and C-4 automatic gearbox. Following import in late 2022, the car has been sympathetically re-commissioned, rather than a full restoration, in-order to retain as much of its authentic character and features where possible. Presented in good order throughout, this Mustang has had its engine recently professionally rebuilt by renown Mustang experts Pilgrim V8, along with a sensible change to a new aluminium radiator; the engine should be good for another 60 years of driving pleasure.

As an ex-Californian car, the chassis, sub-frame, floor-pans etc are in excellent condition. The Candy Apple red paintwork has some chips or marks, but combined with the red and white interior, white walled tyres and wire wheel hubs, the car has a real striking presence and always turns heads, whether on the road or parked up.

The interior presents very well with only a few blemishes; carpet, seat vinyl and door-cards are new, whilst dashboard, glovebox front, steering wheel, headlining, visors etc are all original. The fuel gauge and speedometer were not working and have been replaced, but the old speedometer dial has been retained.
All electrics are in good working order, lights, indicators, hazard switch, wipers and washer jets, cigarette lighter, door, glovebox and dash lights and horn. A period correct aftermarket radio is present but is not working as is common with these old transistor radios. Additionally, the glass on the radio has a crack with a small piece of glass missing.

The original internal heater box has been restored to fully working order, including a new extended pipe core, seal kit, plenum and ducting. The original blower motor, whilst working, was sensibly replaced, but has been retained.

Given the desire to retain originality, chrome-work, such as bumpers, show a few age-related blemishes but are nonetheless bright, and chrome on some handles, window trims etc have some pitting marks in places.

For safety, a dual brake cylinder was added. The front drum brake shoes have been replaced, with new springs and brake cylinders. Rear drums are in good order.

In summary, the car runs and drives as it should, having been maintained to a high standard and benefits from being dry stored in a garage. Accompanying the vehicle is a history file containing invoices covering the last US title, re-commissioning, engine rebuild works along with other sundry invoices and the current V5C registration document.