2010 Ford Mustang

The 2010 Mustang is more powerful, features a revised interior and exterior, and is available with options such as a backup camera, voice activated navigation, and 19-inch wheels. In a press statement, Paul Randle, Mustang chief engineer said, "The new Mustang marks new levels of both power and refinement. We've designed and engineered this to be the next classic Mustang that everyone talks about for years and years."

The 4.6L V8 engine gets a boost of 15 horsepower, bringing its numbers to 315 hp and 325 lbs.-ft of torque. The engineers at Ford have equipped the new base 2010 GT Mustang with an air-induction system pioneered on Ford's extensive racing programs. This true ram-air system delivers a colder, denser intake charge to the cylinders resulting in increased horsepower and torque. Randal said, "That means more horsepower and more torque in all driving conditions." Ford also increased the redline of the V-8 Mustang to 6,500 rpm.

The 4.0L V-6 Mustang returns once again with its 210 hp and 240 lbs.-ft. of torque.

The 2010 Mustang will also feature a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Of note, both the V-6 and the V-8 Mustangs will feature larger exhaust tips in the rear. In all, the tips increase from 3-inches to 3 1/2 inches in length.

The ride of the 2010 Ford Mustang has also been improved. For instance, Ford worked to include a three-link rear suspension with a panhard bar as standard equipment on all Mustangs. In addition, vehicle Engineering Manager Tom Barnes said, "We adjusted the springs, stabilizer bars and shocks to better balance the ride, steering and handling for all models, which results in a more engaging driving experience. The 2010 Mustangs feel more controlled for steering and handling, yet retain a good ride balance."

The 2010 Mustang also sports a revised exterior. Ford says the changes improve the overall performance of the car. Product Design Engineer Steve Parks said, "We've reduced the drag coefficient, which measures the ability of the Mustang to slip through the air, by 4 percent in the V-6 models and 7 percent in the GT models. In addition, we reduced the front aerodynamic lift for the 2010 Mustang by 37 percent for V-6 models and 23 percent for GT models, which significantly improves steering feedback and driver confidence at higher speeds."

On the outside the 2010 Mustang sports a new grille as well as a power dome hood, a revised front fascia, and a revised rear end. New for 2010 is the location of the V-6 Mustang's fog lamps. They are now located on the lower fascia. The GT's fog lamps remain in the same location, although they are smaller in size than those found on previous 2005-2009 Mustangs. In addition, the car's antenna has been moved to the rear, its washer-fluid nozzles are tucked into the cowl, and the taillights feature three LED bulbs firing sequentially from the inside for turn indication. This sequential bulb feature was popular on classic Mustangs.

One glance inside the 2010 Mustang and you'll notice it's a different car. It's more refined and features optional creature comforts such as Ford's Voice-activated SYNC communications and entertainment system, Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, Navigation System with SIRIUS® Travel Link, and a Reverse Camera System. That's right, the 2010 Mustang features a backup camera. The Ambient Lighting System with MyColor option also returns for 2010. A nice new addition to this feature is the ability to adjust the color of the "M U S T A N G" logo in the aluminum door sills.

A new center console features a mounted trunk release, lockable stowage in the center floor console, and covered cup holders.

In addition, the car features an upgraded instrument panel, a new centerstack, and a one-piece instrument panel design. Kim Zielinski, Mustang Instrument Panel engineer said, "The centerstack is quite progressive. The electronic finish panel containing the audio and climate control buttons and knobs are integrated into the finish panel."

2005 Ford Mustang

Muscular new engines infuse Mustang GT with tire-smoking performance. The 4.6-liter all-aluminum V-8 has three-valve heads and cranks out 300 horsepower. Because it has an aluminum block, it weighs 75 pounds less than a comparable cast-iron design while delivering 40 more horsepower than the 2004 engine. That's more than 50 percent more power than the small-block 289-cubic-inch V-8 found in the classic 1964 model. Motor Trend ran a 2005 Mustang GT 5-speed from 0 to 60 in 5.1 seconds and ran the quarter mile in 13.5 seconds at 103 mph in the January 2005 issue. The Mustang GT comes standard with a rear spoiler, but a spoiler delete option is available. 17" wheels are standard.

The 2005 Mustang GT was selected to pace the NASCAR Nextel Cup Banquet 400 and Ford 400 in the 2004 season.

A T-5 five-speed manual transmission is standard, but for the first time, a five-speed automatic transmission is available.alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698723377984191746" />

1999 Ford Mustang

1999 marked Mustang's 35th anniversary, and Mustang got a fresh new look. Though still based on the Fox platform, the smooth lines from 1994-1998 were replaced with an edgier design. The grille corral reappeared for the first time since 1973. Both V-6 and GT Mustangs wore "35th Anniversary" fender badges.

Sweeping hood, side scoops and short rear deck recall the past, while crisp, beveled surfaces invite new interpretation.

Improved aspiration helps the 4.6-liter V8 and the 3.8-liter V6 engines increase horsepower more than adequately. A new Traction Control System is available to help detect and control drive wheel-spin, for improved traction and steering under slippery road conditions. Finally, revised shock and strut valving dampen ride harshness while providing better steering response.

Although every Standard and GT had the 35th Anniversary fender badges, only 4,628 GTs were 35th Anniversary Limited Edition models. There were 2318 coupes and 2310 convertibles. There were 515 that came in white, 1259 in silver, 1299 in black, and 1555 in Performance Red, which was only available on this limited edition. These Limited Edition GTs had a raised hood scoop with a black stripe which ran from the scoop down the front of the hood, extended side scoops, a wing-like spoiler, and a black honeycomb insert in the decklid.

The 1999 SVT Cobras had round foglamps and a small rear-facing hood scoop near the front of the hood. They were otherwise identical to 1999 Mustang GTs, even with "MUSTANG" in the rear bumper and GT seats. The '99 snakes did not have the corral around the grille pony. Though Ford advertised 320-hp for the '99 Cobras, they really only made 305. All of the cars received a new intake manifold, catback exhaust, and computer calibration to produce the as-advertised 320 hp.

1994 Ford Mustang

As early as 1989 it is determined that Mustang cannot continue much longer in its present form. Government mandated driver-side and passenger-side passive restraints, emissions and fuel economy standards make it impossible to produce the Fox-chassis Mustang economically beyond August 30, 1993. CEO Alex Trotman decides to appoint someone who is dedicated to preserving the front engine, rear wheel drive Mustang. Someone who is willing to work on the project on their own time.

Due to the fortitude of Mustang Business Planning Manager, O.J. "John" Coletti, along with Mustang Program Manager, Mike Zevalkink, and their after-hours "skunk team," a new Mustang is built around existing powertrain and chassis hardware. The platform, called Fox-4, is structurally more solid, owing mainly to larger rocker panels, roof rails and stronger joints. These changes go a long way toward preventing NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) and providing enhanced handling characteristics.

1994 marked the much-anticipated debut of Ford's fourth major Mustang redesign. The new pony car had plenty of power and more panache than ever, with styling cues picked up from 1964. The grille pony returned in 1994 after a 16-year absence. Designers said it was one of the best decisions they'd ever made.

Borrowing in part from the two-seater Mach III concept, the look of SN95 captures the earliest Mustang, yet is considerably more aerodynamic. Cat-like wrap-around headlights surround the grille and galloping pony emblem to create a face that is distinctly reminiscent of vintage Mustangs. A muscular, ridged hood sweeps effortlessly into a sharply raked windshield and short rear deck. Retro hood vents and side scoops and layered tri-bar taillights complete the major styling themes of the new Mustang.

A revamped interior is equally inspired. Instruments are surrounded by separate spheres for driver and passenger that originate in the dash and curve downward into the shifter bezel.

Engines include the 215-horsepower 5.0L V8 with silicone-alloy pistons, roller-cam valvetrain, 65 mm throttle body and tubular exhaust headers and a 145-horsepower 3.8-liter V6, which, like the 5.0L, features sequential electronic fuel injection.

Like its first-generation cousin, the 1994 Cobra convertible was selected as the pace car for the Indy 500. All 1994 Cobra convertibles were Indy 500 Pace Car editions. Just over 5000 other 1994 Cobra coupes were produced, and were available in only red, white, or black. The spoiler on Cobras were different than on other models, and included a built-in LED stop lamp.

The Mustang convertible, like all 1994 models, was well received by Mustang fans and sold well. The 1994 production Mustang sold a total of 123,198 vehicles, almost 10,000 units more than the previous year. Convertibles sales were a healthy 53,714.

1987 Ford Mustang

The Fox body benefits from the most dramatic restyling so far. Flush, single-unit halogen headlights, glass quarter windows and modified taillights serve to clean up the LX. The GT is another story. An extremely low air intake, round fog lights, lateral ground effects, 20-spoke turbine-like rims, louvered taillights and a tasteful rear deck wing make a strong statement. And the GT can perform as capably as it provokes. New cylinder heads, revised exhaust and fuel injection computer controls intensify the 5.0L low-end torque for a formidable 300 pounds/feet street ride.

The V6 Mustang is discontinued as the four-cylinder receives fuel injection.

Mustang borrows larger 10.9-inch front discs from the Lincoln Continental.

1979 Ford Mustang

Like the two previous redesigns, the 1979 Mustang is based on an existing platform. The Fox platform, which supports the Fairmont and the Mercury Zephyr, is an ideal match for Mustang. Longer and taller than the Mustang II, it is no minor feat that the latest evolution weighs 200 pounds less.

Chief designer John "Jack" Telnack is credited with giving Mustang its updated "Euro" look. An aero polyurethane nose, rectangular headlights, egg crate-style grille, raked windshield and cleaner lines, not to mention the lowest drag coefficient to date, 0.44, are a complete departure from the Mustang II.

An available TRX handling package reacquaints the Mustang enthusiast with performance handling. Complemented by 15.3-inch aluminum wheels with 195/65R390 Michelin TRX elliptical radials, the TRX handling package features revised bushings, antisway bars, shocks, struts and springs.

Underneath, a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the 5.0L V8 provide a respectable base for engineers to tweak in the years to come.

The redesigned 1979 Mustang is the Official Pace Car of the 63rd Annual Indianapolis 500. Jack Roush and the Roush Racing team equip the Mustangs pacing the race with Boss 302 parts and a blueprinted heavy-duty block. 351 Windsor heads, forged steel crank and connecting rods, four-barrel Holley carbs and free-flowing, 1.54-inch, dual exhausts comprise the hardware. With C-4 three-speed automatic transmissions and a tall rear axle ratio, these 250-plus-horsepower Fox Mustangs are right at home in front of the field.

The Cobra model was carried over from the Mustang II. Like all 1979 Mustangs, it featured an egg-crate style grille. The lower body of the Cobra was painted black, a non-functional hood scoop gave the Cobra an aggressive look, and the rear-window louvers were painted the body color. The '79 Cobra was only available as a hatchback.

1979 Mustang sales surpassed those from 1978 by more than 150,000 units.

Total U.S. Production: 396,936

1974 Mustang marked the beginning of the "Mustang II

The 1974 Mustang marked the beginning of the "Mustang II" generation. The Mustang II is a serious attempt to recapture the spirit of a previous era. With a silhouette and dimensions closer to the '65 Mustang than was the case in the recent past, the Mustang II is the right car for the times.

Strong first year sales confirm that a smaller platform, gas-efficient powertrain and the addition of rack-and-pinion steering are welcome change. With the insurance industry bearing down on the high output contingent and OPEC causing lines at the pump, the Mustang II is a reasonable solution to most everyone but the performance enthusiast.

Despite the Ghia design studio's reinterpretation of the original Mustang, the 2.3-liter overhead-cam four-cylinder and the 2.8-liter V6 are loath to satisfy the enthusiast's call for the boulevard cruisers of the recent past. Buyers are too busy checking out the nifty little Mustang II to pay much attention to its critics.

Even with slower cars and higher prices, sales nearly tripled the 1973 numbers, and the Mustang II was named Motor Trend's Car of the Year. Mustang IIs featured rack-and-pinion steering, which made driving easier and more comfortable. The switch to rack-and-pinion became a popular modification for first-generation owners.

Convertible Mustangs weren't offered in 1974 due to federal safety regulations, and the Ghia replaced the Grandé as the luxury Mustang.

Charles Keresztes' pony grille ornament design slows from a gallop to a trot, perhaps to conserve energy.

Convertible Mustangs weren't offered in 1974 due to federal safety regulations, and the Ghia replaced the Grand� as the luxury Mustang.

1973 brought the last year of the "big" Mustang.

1973 Mustang Coupe

1973 Mustang Convertible

1973 brought the last year of the "big" Mustang. It was to be replaced by a smaller, lighter breed, therefore, most of the changes for '73 were merely cosmetic. A large, square, chrome headlamp bezel appeared, as did chrome trim around the tail lights. A color keyed Urethane front bumper replaced the chrome units of the previous years. The front parking lights were now placed vertically in the front grille. A new, grained, black applique with bright trim was placed on the rear body panel between the tail lights. This was replaced with a honeycomb style on the Mustang Mach 1 and Mustang Grande models. The 1973 Mustang convertible was to become the last Mustang convertible for many years. There were a total of 134,867 Mustangs produced in 1973.

The Mustang is, of course, one of Ford’s classic and most well-known vehicles. Chances are if you’re here, you’re an enthusiast for that type of thing; if what you saw here really piqued your interest, why not do a little browsing and see if you can find one to make your own? There are classic cars for sale all over the web, and there might be one with your name on it.

1971, the 1972 big styling changes

1972 Mustang Mach 1

1972 Mustang Convertible

1972 Mustang Coupe

Since the Mustang had undergone a major restyling in 1971, the 1972 Mustang models saw no big styling changes, only minor cosmetic ones. Probably due to increasing governmental fuel economy regulations, all of the Boss cars were dropped from the 1972 lineup. The Boss 351 and both versions of the 429 engine were dropped. During the early part of '72, a special 351HO model was offered. It featured a low compression version of the Boss 351 engine, with a special high-lift cam, mechanical lifters, forged aluminum pistons and a special 4-barrel manifold. The only "performance" model that remained for the entire '72 model year was the Mustang Mach 1. The Mach 1, like all other '72 models, were virtually unchanged.

Production for 1972 topped out at 125,093.

1971 saw another major restyling change

1971 Mustang Mach 1

1971 Mustang Grande

1971 Mustang Coupe

1971 saw another major restyling change for the Ford Mustang. It was also to be the last restyling for the first generation Mustang. Introduced late in August of 1970, the new Mustang was more than two inches longer and almost two and a half inches wider than it's 1970 predecessor. For the first time since the Mustang's inception, the wheelbase was extended one inch to 109". The 200 cid 6 cylinder was dropped along with the 428, the Boss 302, and the Boss 429. New engines for '71 were the Boss 351, the 429, and the Ram Air 429. The Mustang Boss 351 produced 330 horsepower, while both 429 engines produced 370 horsepower.

On the exterior, the famous Mustang corral returned. A new wide chrome strip on the edge of the front fenders and hood was borrowed from the 1969 Shelby's. The long hood now turned up at the windshield to cover the hidden wipers. Large, bold, triple lens tail lights appeared on the rear of the new Mustang. Flush mounted door handles replaced the earlier surface mounted units.

The interior featured standard high-back buckets, a mini console, and an all new instrumentation layout. Power windows were offered for the first time. The Mustang Mach 1 continued to be offered for '71. It was available with any of the V8 engines. A special honeycomb grille and color keyed front bumper were unique to the Mach 1 model. The chrome hood and fender mouldings were replaced with color keyed trim. "Mach 1" decals were placed on the fenders and deck lid and a special black or argent lower body side paint was used.

New for 1971 was the Mustang Boss 351 which replaced the Boss 302 and Boss 429. The Boss 351 featured a special 330 horsepower 351-4V Cleveland engine. The Boss 351 featured a blacked out NASA scooped hood with twist type locks and special body side stripes. The Boss 351 included a competition suspension with staggered rear shocks, a four speed transmission with a Hurst shifter, power front disc brakes, dual exhaust, and 3.91:1 traction lock rear end.

There were a total of 149,678 Mustangs built in 1971.

1970 saw no major changes

1970 saw no major changes to the Mustang lineup. Most of the changes were in the way of subtle refinements. The headlights became dual units again instead of the quad units used in 1969, front side marker lamps were moved up onto the fenders, the quarter panel "scoops" were deleted, and the rear taillights were now recessed into their housings. On the inside, high back buckets became standard equipment with the seat back release moved to the lower part of the seat, a new "oval" steering wheel (supposedly to ease entry and exit), and the ignition switch was moved to the steering column which locked the steering wheel when turned to the off position. The engine lineup changed slightly for the 1970 Mustangs. The 390 was dropped and the 351-2V Cleveland and 351-4V Cleveland replaced the 351 Windsor models of previous years. The Mach 1, Boss 302, and Boss 429 were all available in 1970. Total Production for 1970 was 190,727 units.
1970 Mustang Grande


1970 Mustang Coupe

1969 Mustang SportsRoof

1969 Mustang SportsRoof
1969 brought another major restyling to the Mustang. The Fastback 2+2 was gone - replaced by the new SportsRoof model. The new Mustangs were almost 4 inches longer than their 67/68 predecessors, yet they retained the 108" wheelbase of the original 1964½. The base Mustang engine continued to be the 200 cubic inch six cylinder. New for the economy minded Mustang owner was an optional 250 cubic inch six. The base V-8 continued to be the 302-2V. The 351-2V and 4V entered the lineup for 1969. The 302-4V and the 390-2V were dropped, but the 390-4V remained. There were two special engines offered for 69, the Boss 302 and the Boss 429. Both engines were only available in two limited production units, so called, the Mustang Boss 302 and the Mustang Boss 429. New features for 1969 included quad headlights, front parking lights were now located behind the front valance panel, new quarter panel ornaments, side scoops and integral rear spoiler on the SportsRoof models, front seat back locks, and for the first time, the VIN number, in addition to being located on the driver's door, was also attached to the instrument panel, and visible through the windshield.

There were several new Mustang models offered during 1969. A little know model was the Mustang 'E'. It was basically a standard economy minded Mustang SportsRoof model with a six cylinder engine, a higher (lower numerically) ratio rear end with a large torque converter, and an automatic transmission. Air conditioning was not available on the 'E' model. A "Mustang E" insignia replaced the standard quarter panel ornament. Another new model was the Mustang Grande, which included the Interior Decor Group, an electric clock, special houndstooth check upholstery, and extra sound deadner.

Another new model was the Mustang Mach 1 which was only available with one of the five larger V-8 engines. It featured special interior trim, special carpet, and high back bucket seats. On the exterior, the Mach 1 featured a low-gloss black hood, non-functional hood scoop (except models equipped with the 428 Cobra Jet engine which had a "new for 69" shaker scoop), hood pins, dual racing mirrors,special side stripe, pop-open gas cap, and dual exhaust ending in chrome, quad outlets. The Mustang Mach 1 also included the "Handling Suspension" and an additional 55 pounds of sound deadner and insulation materials.

Another new model for '69 was the Mustang Boss 302. Built mainly to qualify the Mustang for the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) Trans-Am series. The Boss 302 included a special 290 horsepower, 302 engine, 4 speed transmission, 16:1 ratio steering box, and a 3.50:1, staggered shock rear end. The exterior featured a low-gloss, black hood and deck lid, Boss 302 "C" stripes, front spoiler, flared fenders and Magnum 500 wheels with F60x15 tires. All of the optional Mustang interiors were available on the Boss 302, however, most of them were equipped with the black, standard Mustang interior.

The biggest and baddest of the Boss's, the Mustang Boss 429, was also introduced in 1969. Primarily built to satisfy NASCAR requirements, the Boss 429 Mustang featured a Semi-Hemi 429 powerplant. To compensate for the massive engine, the front shock towers were moved out one inch, and the front A-Arms were lowered one inch. The Boss 429 featured a huge hood scoop (the largest ever offered on the Mustang), front spoiler, flared fenders, dual racing mirrors, and F60x15 tires, mounted on chrome, Magnum 500 wheels. The interior featured the Mustang interior decor group, comfortweave bucket seats, and console. The Boss 429 also featured a competition suspension, rear stabalizer bar, power front disc brakes, power steering, engine oil cooler, trunk mounted battery, and a 3.91:1, traction lock rear end.

1968 Mustang was little changed from it 1967 counterpart

The 1968 Mustang was little changed from it 1967 counterpart. Most of the changes were in subtle refinements to the interior and exterior. New options for the 1968 Mustang included an AM/FM stereo radio, rear window defogger (coupe and fastback only), re-designed front power disc brakes, and the all new 302 cid engine. The 302-4V, 230 horsepower engine replaced the 289 Challenger Special of previous years. By December of 1967, the 289 engine was replaced entirely by the 302 version. Other changes included the deletion of the horizontal grille bars, the deletion of the F-O-R-D letters at the front of the hood, simplification of the quarter panel ornament, and many safety features were added. Due to increasing governmental regulations, the 1968 Mustang now included front and rear side marker lights, folding, flush mounted interior door pulls, and an energy absorbing steering column. There were several "region specific" models offered from various dealers. Two of the most noteable were the Mustang California Special, and the Mustang High Country Special. Total production for 1968 was 317,404 units.
1968 High Country Special

1968 Mustang GT Fastback

1968 Mustang California Special

1967 brought the first major restyling Mustang

1967 Mustang Convertible

1967 Ford Mustang Coupe

1967 brought the first major restyling to the Ford Mustang. The Mustang was starting to grow up. The length and heigth were increased, 2.7" and .5" respectively. The wider body allowed for the installation of a tire smoking, 320 horsepower, 390 cid engine, the first big block engine in the Mustang. Among new options for the 1967 Mustang were the tilt-away steering wheel, an overhead console, power disc brakes, and an all new transmission, the FMX, which allowed fully automatic or manual shifting. The Mustang fastback's roof line was extended to the rear of the trunk. Interior trim options were decreased from 34 in 1966 to just 20 in 1967. Production for 1967 slipped to just over 472,000 units.

1966 brought even fewer changes

1966 Mustang GT Fastback

1966 Mustang GT Convertible

1966 Mustang GT Coupe

1966 Mustang GT Coupe
1966 brought even fewer changes for the Mustang than did its predecessor. Most of the changes for 1966 were in the form of cosmetic refinements. A new grille which featured chrome edged, horizontal inserts, replaced the honeycomb grille of '65. The chrome bars that extended horizontally and vertically from the running horse were deleted on the 1966 Mustang's grille. A new three fingered rear quarter panel ornament was used. The lower rocker panel moulding became standard equipment, as did backup lights, and a chrome hood lip moulding. The fuel filler cap no longer included the plastic Mustang emblem insert found on the earlier models. On the inside, the Mustang was treated to standard five gauge instrumentation, and "woven" vinyl seat inserts. The choices of available interior colors and styles increased to thirty four varieties, giving the buyer even more ways to personalize "their" Mustang. Production increased to 607,568 units for 1966.

1965 brought few changes for the Mustang.

1965 Mustang Convertible & 1965 Mustang 2+2 Fastback


1965 Mustang Convertible & 1965 Mustang 2+2 Fastback
1965 brought few changes for the Mustang. The biggest change was the availability of a new fastback model, which was to become the basis for Carroll Shelby's GT350. The 120 horsepower, 200 cid 6 cylinder engine replaced the 170 cid 6 cylinder, the 289-2V, 200 horsepower V-8 replaced the 260-2V, the 289-4V was upgraded to 225 horsepower, and the 289-4V hi-po remained unchanged. Other changes for the 1965 Mustang included: an alternator instead of a generator, relocation of the oil filler, integral power steering pump and resevoir (most 1964½'s had a remote mounted resevoir), a wire retaining ring was added to the gas cap, the horns were smaller and relocated, and the interior carpet was continued up the sides of the rocker panel and under the sill plate. A new interior option was added, the interior decor group (known as the pony interior), which featured special seat covers with running horses across the seat back, special interior door panes with integral arm rests and pistol grip door handles, five gauge instrument panel, woodgrain steering wheel, and woodgrain appliques on the instrument cluster, glovebox, and optionally on the center console. Another Mustang option introduced in April of 1965 was the GT equipment group. Available only with one of the two four barrel engines, the GT group included five-dial instrumentation, disc brakes, larger sway bars, quicker steering ratio, dual exhaust which exited through the rear valance panel, grill mounted foglights, and special lower body side stripes. A total of 559,451 Mustangs were produced for the 1965 model year.

The First Production Mustang

To Roll Off The Assembly Line
The 1964½, as it was later called, was available in only two models: the coupe and convertible. Both models featured a lengthened hood and shortened rear deck, chrome wrap-around bumpers, chrome grille with a running horse, and full wheel covers. Both models were available with a 170 cid, 101 horsepower, 6 cylinder engine, a 260-2V, 164 horsepower V-8, a 289-4V, 210 horsepower V-8 and, starting in June, a fire breathing, 4 barrel, solid lifter, 271 horsepower, 289 cid V-8 engine. The buyer had a choice of a 3 speed, 4 speed or automatic transmission, and a variety of rear end gear ratios. The interior featured "wall-to-wall" carpeting, front bucket seats or an optional front bench seat, rear bench seat, a sports car style steering wheel, floor mounted shifter, and full headliner. There were a total of 121,538 Ford Mustangs produced during the 1964½ model run.

Ford Mustang Beganing 1962 Mustang prototype

1963 ford mustang prototype

In 1961, Lee Iacocca, vice president and general manager of Ford Division, had a vision. His vision was a car that would seat four people, have bucket seats, a floor mounted shifter, be no more than 180 inches long, weigh less than 2500 pounds, and sell for less than $2500.00. Out of this vision, the Ford Mustang was born. After many months of meetings, discussions and market surveys, funding was finally approved for the Mustang in September of 1962. On March 9, 1964 the first Mustang rolled off of the assembly line. Only 18 months had elapsed since the Mustang had been approved for production. In order to keep production costs down, many of the Mustang's components were borrowed from the Falcon, including most of the drivetrain. With a multitude of different interior, exterior, and drivetrain options, the Mustang would be able to be ordered as plain, or as fancy, as economical, or as fast, as the buyer wanted. In general, the Mustang was designed for everyone and was advertised as "the car to be designed by you".
1962 Mustang prototype

The Ford Mustang was heavily advertised during the latter part of it's development. On April 16, 1964, the day before it's release, Ford ran simultaneous commercials at 9:30pm on all three major television networks, ABC, NBC, and CBS. The following day, April 17, 1964, people "attacked" the Ford showrooms. Everyone was in a frenzy to be one of the first to own the Mustang. Ford sold over 22,000 Mustangs the first day. By the end of the year, Ford had sold 263,434. By the end of the Mustang's first anniversary, April 17, 1965, Ford had sold 418,812 Mustangs. The Mustang had made a name for itself, and it was here to stay