Ford Mustang
ENGINE 4736cc/V8/OHV POWER 200hp@4400rpm TORQUE 282ft lb@2400rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 119mph 0-60MPH 8.8sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 11-23mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, three-speed auto MoT October 2018 ODOMETER 18,636 miles
Easing behind the wheel, the anticipation of just turning the key overrides all else. Slight blips of the throttle accompany smooth progress from the automatic gearbox. Sawing at the wheel makes you wonder how those movie car chases were achieved but it’s easy to drive with just a little bit of planning ahead. Visibility is good and the brakes sufficiently well balanced. It’s free from rattles and knocks and feels like you could use the car regularly.
BODYWORK CHECK
The body is very straight with only a barely perceptible dent on the top of the nearside wing and sharp, precise panel edges. It could be an older restoration. Panel gaps are generally good with no signs of poor fit, which might suggest a re-panelled car. Chrome and brightwork are in excellent condition all round; the spotless bumpers may well be newer replacements. The underbody is clean and straight without any signs of hidden repairs. The lower sills are clean and rot-free. Windscreen apart, the glass is all factory original for a 1965 Mustang. The Highland Green paintwork is very good and fresh. Bullitt- style Torque Thrust wheels are a nice addition. Tyres are all good BF Goodrich Radial T/A 225/60 R15s with a non-matching old spare 185/75 R14. The stance and suspension look correct, and the leaf springs seem to be in good condition.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The interior is tidy and presentable, albeit with some room for improvement. The dash top and steering wheel have the customary cracks from the Stateside sun, but the seats are comfortable and have been sympathetically reupholstered in the correct vinyl. The headlining, although clean, is nicked in places, but the carpets and mats are in good condition. The console between the front seats could be re-finished, but overall the interior is honest and clean. The radio was inoperative when tested, and the new owner may not want to keep the modern amp slung under the dashboard. All the gauges work, though the water temperature gauge is a little lazy.
UNDER THE BONNET
The engine bay is clean and tidy with aftermarket rocker covers, HT leads and air filter housing showing that someone has looked after it. Overall the bay is clean with just the odd sign of surface rust on a few bolts and surfaces. Recently serviced, it appears that a new battery has been fitted in recent months. Fluid levels are correct, with no signs of leaks or residue.
THE CCW VIEW
This clean and tidy car is a great entry into Mustang ownership and the sound of the 289 is wonderful through aftermarket side pipes. There’s little history with the car and the mileage is not confirmed, but the body is straight and the mechanicals sound.