1965 Ford Mustang Hardtop
Since it was introduced 4 months before the normal start of the 1965 production year the earliest Mustangs were referred to as the 1964.5 model by enthusiasts. Nevertheless, all 1964.5 cars were given a 1965 standard VIN at the time of production. Production began in March 1964 and serial number 1, (5F08F100001), was sold on April 14th, 1964 at the George Parsons Ford dealership in St. John's Newfoundland, Canada. The official introduction followed on April 17th at the 1964 World's Fair. The gentleman whose name will be forever written in Mustang history was Captain Stanley Tucker. He walked into George Parsons Ford and found an all too eager salesman who sold him the car....3 days before the model officially went on sale. The rest, as they say, is history.
We honor the service of Vietnam veterans, who at the time of the war, were at the age of buying their first car. Some bought one before they were drafted, others bought one immediately upon their return. Many others did not make it home. Here's a veteran who bought a yellow mustang before he was drafted. He abruptly sold it to his parents and upon his return, for whatever reason, they would not sell it back. Fast forward to 2014 when a loving wife purchased a car of the same year in the same color to celebrate his retirement. We say every car at the mall has a story to tell. That's a good one. Classic Mustangs are some of the most recognizable and popular classic cars that come through our hallowed halls, and this one is a fine driver that will elicit looks and conversations for many years to come. Restoration receipts and details will accompany this car.
Exterior
Looking like a Palomino horse, this Mustang wears Phoenician Yellow paint and has a Parchment vinyl roof. This car has the GT fog lights inset in the grille and wire wheel hubcaps on 14-inch steel wheels. The '65's had the optional reverse lights to the rear valance below the bumper where we also find a pair of chrome tips on the tailpipe. The black pinstripe along the shoulder line accentuates the body lines of the car. The paint, metal trim and bumpers, and vinyl top are absolutely presentable, and the panels are straight. It has a touch of patina that is a welcome change from pristine show cars you would be hesitant to drive more often. This one is a driver! Imperfections include some scuffs and scratches, chips, some bubbling, and cracks in the paint.
Interior
The black vinyl door panels are immaculate and the vinyl bucket seats and rear bench are in great shape. Molded plastic interior trim pieces in the back and in the footwells look great. The 3-spoke steering wheel wrapped in a vinyl aftermarket grip shows some patina but is complete with Mustang center cap. The gauge cluster features a horizontal speedometer to 120 mph flanked by round gauges for temp, gas level, and other important information. A JVC AM/FM/Cassette radio looks right at home in the center of the dash, and a large glove box is positioned under the dash cover in front of the passenger. A standard Mustang shifter takes its place on the floor, surrounded by black loop style carpet in great shape. The headliner shows a bit of age but is tight and undamaged. Trunk is clean and lined with the common plaid mat.
Drivetrain
A 289ci V8 is under the hood, fed by a 4-barrel carburetor and tied to a C4 3-speed automatic transmission. The engine was factory rated at 225 horsepower which was transferred to the rear wheels via a Ford 8" rear and 3.00 gears with limited slip. Power drum brakes are supplied on all four wheels. We would categorize the engine bay as driver quality and original looking with the exception, of course, of the yellow Optima battery.
Undercarriage
Driver quality under here as well with its fair share of surface rust on the leaf springs, rear axle, and other uncoated metal. The shock towers have been repaired in the past and photos of the welding are included in the photo set. Things are relatively dry underneath with just a bit of residual oil on the pan but does not appear to be actively leaking. The dual exhaust flows underneath where they meet a pair of stock style mufflers, the exit out the back. Independent front suspension with coil springs is noted and leaf springs are in the back.
Drive-Ability
We primed the carb and turned the key and the venerable 289 started up and sang a sweet song from the exhaust. We headed out on the test loop and checked functionality. Everything seemed to work, and the car ran and stopped well.
Fifty years after original Mustang ownership, this car fulfilled a dream for someone. Surely, there are others out there who dream of owning a classic Mustang and whether you leave this one as is and drive the heck out of it or take advantage of its great bones and do a full restoration, you'll definitely be the fortunate steward of a great car with a moving story that goes with it.
5F07A253327
5-1965
F-Dearborn, MI Assy Plant
07-Mustang Hardtop
A-289ci 225hp 4bbl V8
253327-Sequential Unit Number
WARRANTY PLATE
BODY 65A-Mustang Hardtop, Standard Bucket Seats
COLOR A-Raven Black
TRIM 26-Standard Black Vinyl Buckets
DATE 04H-August 4th
DSO 23-Philadelphia
AXLE A-Ford 8" 3.00 TracLoc
TRANS 5-4 Speed Manual
Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.
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