19 Oldest Mustangs Ever Built

The Ford Mustang has been an iconic symbol of American automotive performance and style for decades. Since its debut in 1964, it has evolved through various generations, each reflecting the changing trends and technological advancements of its time. From muscle car to compact and back to high-performance powerhouse, the Mustang has remained a beloved classic with a dedicated fan base. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the oldest Mustangs ever built, starting from 1964, highlighting their unique characteristics, changes in design, and what set them apart in their respective eras.

1964½ Ford Mustang (First Generation)

The 1964½ Ford Mustang, often credited with igniting the muscle car era, was introduced on April 17, 1964. This was the first ever Mustang and it was an instant success, selling over 22,000 units on its first day. Powered by a 170-cubic inch inline-six or a 260-cubic inch V8, the car offered an impressive balance of performance and affordability. It featured a sleek, long hood and a short rear deck, which became iconic in automotive design. The Mustang’s introduction marked a pivotal moment in automotive history, influencing car culture for decades. The ’64½ was actually produced in late 1964 and had unique features like an alternator instead of a generator. At over 60 years old, this vehicle is now a beloved classic, often restored and showcased by enthusiasts.

1965 Ford Mustang

The 1965 Ford Mustang marked the first full year of production and refined many features of the original model. It featured a choice of a 200-cubic inch inline-six or a 289-cubic inch V8 engine, which provided an increase in power and performance. Notably, it offered more customization options, including bucket seats, vinyl interiors, and a variety of paint colors. The 1965 model also saw the introduction of the 271-horsepower high-performance 289 V8 engine, which made the Mustang even more attractive to driving enthusiasts. It had a sleek, aerodynamic design, with a signature long hood and low-slung stance. Selling over 500,000 units in its first year, the ’65 Mustang solidified its place in automotive history. At 59 years old, this model is often considered one of the best examples of Ford’s engineering legacy.

1966 Ford Mustang

The 1966 Ford Mustang was a continuation of the success of the previous model, but with subtle refinements. It offered new options like a 390-cubic inch V8 engine, delivering 271 horsepower, a performance upgrade many enthusiasts appreciated. The ’66 Mustang also introduced new features, such as the hood and fender-mounted turn signals, as well as a more refined interior with new trim and color options. This was the year that the Mustang officially entered its muscle car era, with options for greater power and performance. The exterior of the ’66 model remained largely unchanged from the previous year, continuing the iconic look that had made the Mustang famous. At nearly 60 years old, the 1966 Mustang is highly collectible, often seen in car shows and auctions around the world. Its blend of beauty, performance, and historical significance makes it a standout classic.

1967 Ford Mustang

The 1967 Mustang introduced a larger, more aggressive design compared to its predecessors. It was now based on a larger chassis, giving it a more muscular appearance and improved interior space. Under the hood, Ford offered a range of powerful engine options, including a 289-cubic inch V8 and the famed 428-cubic inch V8, which produced 335 horsepower. This model also saw the introduction of the fastback body style, which became a hallmark of the Mustang’s legacy. Inside, the ’67 featured more luxurious options, with a newly designed dashboard and more comfort-oriented features. Despite its increased size and weight, the 1967 Mustang retained its performance-oriented spirit. Now, at over 55 years old, this model remains a popular choice among collectors, especially in the fastback variant.

1968 Ford Mustang

The 1968 Ford Mustang arrived with more performance options and several design updates. One of the biggest changes was the introduction of the 428 Cobra Jet V8 engine, which made the Mustang even more powerful and iconic in muscle car circles. The design was subtly updated with a flatter front grille and new side marker lights. The ’68 Mustang also had the option of a “Sports Sprint” package, which offered additional luxury features, such as more elaborate trim and upgraded interior options. This year, the Mustang became even more linked to pop culture, thanks to its starring role in the Steve McQueen film Bullitt, which showcased its high-performance capabilities. With improvements in both comfort and power, the 1968 model was an attractive choice for drivers. At 56 years old, it’s celebrated as a true muscle car icon.

1969 Ford Mustang

The 1969 Ford Mustang marked a significant change in both size and style. Ford redesigned the Mustang’s body with a more aggressive, wider stance and longer hood. This year also saw the introduction of the iconic Boss 302 and Boss 429 models, both of which were designed for high-performance enthusiasts. The Boss 302, in particular, was engineered for both street and track use, and its 302-cubic inch V8 engine produced 290 horsepower. The 1969 Mustang also introduced the Mach 1 trim, a performance-oriented package that offered improved handling, more power, and a distinctive appearance. The design was complemented by a range of striking new colors and graphics. At over 55 years old, the 1969 Mustang remains a revered classic, with collectors particularly interested in the rare Boss and Mach 1 variants.

1970 Ford Mustang

The 1970 Ford Mustang continued the trend set by the previous year, offering bold styling and powerful engine options. The introduction of the 429-cubic inch V8 engine made the 1970 model a true powerhouse, capable of producing 375 horsepower. In addition to the high-performance engines, the 1970 Mustang featured subtle design updates, including a new front grille and redesigned taillights. The model also offered a wider range of options, such as a choice between a hardtop, fastback, or convertible. While the 1970 Mustang was still a performance-oriented vehicle, it also appealed to a broader audience with more comfort and luxury features. It is now considered one of the last of the true muscle cars from this era. At 54 years old, the 1970 Mustang is a popular choice for restoration enthusiasts.

1971 Ford Mustang

The 1971 Ford Mustang marked a dramatic shift in the car’s design, with a much larger body and even more powerful engines. Ford introduced a new, more aggressive front end with a wider grille and sharper body lines. Engine options included the 429 Super Cobra Jet V8, which delivered up to 370 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful production Mustangs. The ’71 Mustang was also available in a luxury-oriented Grande model, which offered premium interior options like vinyl seats and a luxurious dashboard. This model was a response to the growing demand for larger, more powerful cars, but it also signified the beginning of a shift away from the pure muscle car focus. At 53 years old, the 1971 Mustang is still a beloved example of 1970s automotive design. Collectors are especially drawn to the high-performance variants, which have become increasingly rare.

1972 Ford Mustang

The 1972 Ford Mustang was part of a transition period for the iconic vehicle, with a focus on comfort and refinement rather than outright performance. The engine lineup was slightly reduced, with the most powerful engine being the 351 Cleveland V8, which still delivered respectable performance but wasn’t as aggressive as previous years. The design was more streamlined, with subtle changes like new bumpers and updated trim. Despite the reductions in performance, the ’72 Mustang still featured a range of available models, including the Mach 1. Ford also offered a luxury model with upgraded interior features, targeting a broader, more mainstream market. The 1972 Mustang is considered a bridge between the muscle car era and the more conservative 1970s. Now 52 years old, the ’72 Mustang is considered a unique and important part of the Mustang’s lineage.

1973 Ford Mustang

The 1973 Ford Mustang marked the end of the first generation of Mustangs and represented the final year of the classic muscle car design. With new regulations impacting car safety and fuel economy, the 1973 Mustang became heavier, with a larger and more refined body. Ford made significant changes to the bumpers, which were now more substantial due to new government regulations. The engine options included a 351-cubic inch V8, which still provided decent power, though less aggressive than earlier years. The model also offered various luxury options, including leather upholstery and improved sound systems. Though no longer the high-performance vehicle it once was, the ’73 Mustang still had a distinctive presence on the road. At over 50 years old, this model is often celebrated for its historical significance as the last of the early Mustangs.

1974 Ford Mustang II (Second Generation)

The 1974 Ford Mustang II marked a significant departure from its muscle car roots, focusing more on compactness and fuel efficiency. The Mustang II was smaller, lighter, and less powerful than its predecessors, reflecting the automotive industry’s shift during the 1970s energy crisis. The base engine was a 2.3-liter inline-four, but it could be upgraded to a 2.8-liter V6 or a 5.0-liter V8 for more power. Despite its reduced performance, the Mustang II was designed to appeal to a broader market, offering a more economical and practical alternative to the larger models of the past. Its design featured a more rounded, European-inspired look, with a sharp nose and angular rear end. While the Mustang II didn’t carry the same raw power as earlier models, it was still recognized for its affordable price and modern design. The 1974 model was the first to appear in the “pony car” category during the oil crisis, becoming a symbol of the changing times.

1975 Ford Mustang II (Second Generation)

The 1975 Mustang II continued the trend of the previous year, emphasizing fuel efficiency and smaller dimensions. The exterior design was refined, with sleeker lines and a more rounded front bumper that gave it a more contemporary feel. Engine options remained similar, with the base 2.3-liter inline-four, the V6 engine, and a 5.0-liter V8 available as upgrades. Ford offered a luxury “Ghia” trim level, which featured premium interior materials and additional comfort features. While the Mustang’s performance had diminished compared to its 1960s predecessors, the 1975 model still attracted buyers seeking a combination of style, comfort, and affordability. Despite criticism from some enthusiasts for its lack of performance, it became one of the best-selling vehicles of the time. This model was an essential step in the Mustang’s evolution, keeping the nameplate alive during a transitional period in the automotive industry.

1976 Ford Mustang II (Second Generation)

The 1976 Ford Mustang II saw the continuation of the compact design, and it remained a popular choice among buyers who valued fuel economy and style over raw power. In 1976, Ford introduced the new 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, improving fuel efficiency even further while maintaining acceptable performance for everyday driving. The 2.8-liter V6 was still available, and for the first time, the V8 engine was phased out in most models due to stricter emissions regulations. Ford also made minor updates to the interior, enhancing comfort and refinement, ensuring the Mustang II would appeal to a wider audience. Despite the shift away from high-performance variants, the 1976 Mustang II still featured the same aggressive, sporty appearance that had made the original Mustang so popular. Its compact size made it more practical for city driving, and with a variety of trims available, buyers could customize the car to suit their preferences. The 1976 Mustang II would be the last of its kind before the larger, more powerful Mustangs of the 1980s.

1977 Ford Mustang II (Second Generation)

The 1977 Ford Mustang II marked another year of success for the compact pony car, further cementing the model’s reputation as a practical, stylish alternative to larger muscle cars. This year, Ford introduced a slightly more powerful 2.8-liter V6 engine as the base option, while the 5.0-liter V8 engine remained a rare choice for performance enthusiasts. The exterior received minimal changes, with only subtle updates to the grille and trim, keeping the Mustang’s familiar look intact. The interior was redesigned to offer a more luxurious feel, with improved seating and higher-quality materials. The 1977 Mustang II was also the first to feature an optional sunroof, giving owners the opportunity to enjoy open-air driving. Although the Mustang II’s performance was still a far cry from the original, it continued to find a loyal following due to its practicality, comfort, and efficiency. This model would help solidify the Mustang’s place in automotive history despite the changing landscape of the industry.

1978 Ford Mustang II (Second Generation)

The 1978 Mustang II represented the final year for this second-generation model, marking the end of an era for Ford’s compact pony car. In response to changing market demands, Ford continued to focus on fuel efficiency while retaining the Mustang’s core appeal with stylish, sporty looks. The 1978 model offered a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine or a 2.8-liter V6 as standard, but the V8 was now limited to the higher trim levels. The exterior design was subtly refreshed, featuring a more modern front fascia and new side body moldings, making it feel a bit more contemporary. Inside, the cabin was comfortable and well-appointed, with premium materials used throughout the interior. The Mustang II was relatively lightweight compared to other cars of its size, offering agile handling and a nimble driving experience. Though it wasn’t as fast or powerful as earlier models, the 1978 Mustang II helped Ford navigate a time of economic uncertainty and shifting automotive priorities.

1979 Ford Mustang (Third Generation)

The 1979 Ford Mustang ushered in a new era with its redesigned, larger body and more powerful engine options. For the first time in nearly a decade, the Mustang returned to its roots, offering a V8 engine in its lineup alongside new four-cylinder and six-cylinder variants. The exterior was more angular and muscular, reflecting the shift back toward a performance-oriented pony car. Ford introduced the 5.0-liter V8, which became a hallmark of the Mustang for years to come, marking a return to the brand’s performance-driven identity. Despite the return of the V8, the 1979 Mustang also emphasized fuel efficiency, offering a 2.3-liter inline-four as the base engine. The interior was spacious and modernized, offering more comfort and better quality materials than the Mustang II. With its sharp styling and improved powertrain options, the 1979 model helped reinvigorate the Mustang name and was well-received by both enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.

1980 Ford Mustang (Third Generation)

The 1980 Ford Mustang continued the design established by the 1979 model but saw a number of changes aimed at improving performance and fuel economy. One of the biggest updates was the introduction of a new 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which provided better acceleration while maintaining fuel efficiency. The V8 engine was still available, but it was now tuned to produce slightly less horsepower due to stricter emissions standards. The exterior styling was refined, with a more aggressive front grille and cleaner lines, keeping the Mustang’s classic sporty appearance intact. The interior received updates as well, with a focus on modernizing the dashboard and adding new technology like an improved sound system and air conditioning options. The 1980 Mustang also included options for larger wheels and sportier suspension, allowing drivers to personalize their car further. Although it didn’t match the raw power of the original Mustangs, the 1980 model offered a solid balance of performance and efficiency.

1981 Ford Mustang (Third Generation)

The 1981 Ford Mustang introduced more fine-tuned refinements, especially in engine options and handling capabilities. The base 2.3-liter inline-four engine was now offered with a turbocharger, making it a stronger contender in terms of performance, while still focusing on efficiency. Ford also continued to offer the 5.0-liter V8, although it was now paired with a new, more efficient carburetor system to meet tightening emission standards. This year saw the introduction of a new “Mustang GT” model, bringing back a performance-focused variant that would later become iconic. The GT model featured sportier suspension, a sportier grille, and enhanced engine options, signaling a return to the performance roots that the Mustang was known for. On the outside, the 1981 model featured more squared-off lines compared to previous models, further emphasizing its muscular look. Overall, the 1981 Mustang helped re-establish the car’s performance credentials while still catering to a wider audience with its affordable base models.

1982 Ford Mustang (Third Generation)

The 1982 Ford Mustang was a milestone for the pony car, as it marked the introduction of a new 5.0-liter V8 engine, known as the “Hi-Po” variant, which was a major improvement in both performance and reliability. This engine offered substantial power over the smaller engines available at the time, making the 1982 Mustang one of the most powerful models since the late 1960s. Ford also introduced the new Mustang GT, which featured sportier suspension and a more aggressive appearance. The exterior design was updated slightly, with a more modern front bumper, a sleeker rear end, and a new, more aerodynamic shape. Inside, the 1982 Mustang featured modern amenities like digital gauges, improved seating, and better sound insulation. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine was still available, but the V8 became the dominant choice for enthusiasts who craved performance. The 1982 model year helped solidify the Mustang’s return to performance and set the stage for future success.

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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