Two Decades and Three Years of Adventures: 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback
Exploring a Barn Find: 1965 Ford Mustang
If cars could talk, imagine the stories this 1965 Ford Mustang would tell. This classic beauty has spent the last 23 years tucked away in a barn in Kuttawa, Kentucky. But it wasn’t exactly a cozy spot – the barn had a mud floor that did no favors for the Mustang’s rear end. As a result, the once-mighty pony car now sports a noticeable lean, and rust has taken its toll on the sheet metal. Despite its challenges, this vintage gem is available on eBay, where bidding has reached $12,900, closing in on the Buy It Now price (with the reserve somewhere in between).
The Birth of a Legend
In 1964, Ford unveiled the Mustang, and it became an instant sensation. However, during its mid-year debut, only two body styles were offered: the coupe and convertible. The iconic fastback design didn’t hit the scene until later that year, just in time for the full year model run. Among the 560,000 Mustangs produced in 1965 (production would peak the following year), over 71,000 were fastbacks like this one, resplendent in white with a black interior. Interestingly, the 289 cubic inch V8 engine, a classic Mustang powerplant, didn’t make its debut until later, so this ’65 model sports the 260 V8 with a generator, earning it the nickname “1964 1/2.”
A Barn’s Toll
The photos of this Mustang are time-stamped in 2019, leaving us wondering if this is its first appearance on the auction block. The muddy barn floor didn’t only affect the car’s posture – it also took a toll on the trunk pan and floorboards. While the front portion of the undercarriage is reportedly in decent shape, there’s no denying that this Mustang needs some serious restoration work. Surprisingly, the interior has weathered the years reasonably well and might only need new carpeting to freshen it up.
Under the Hood
The heart of any Mustang lies beneath its hood, and this one features the C-code 289 V8 engine with a 2-barrel carburetor. Unfortunately, the seller reports that the engine is frozen, which means it will require a thorough rebuild or, ideally, a new motor to bring it back to life. The transmission is said to shift when the car is stationary, but there’s an issue – both wheels on the passenger side are locked up, making it impossible to roll. As for the odometer, it suggests just 36,000 miles, but there’s a catch – you’ll need to get the car re-keyed because the previous owner misplaced the keys.
In conclusion, this 1965 Ford Mustang is a barn find with immense potential, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Restoring it to its former glory will require dedication and some serious elbow grease. If you’re a passionate Mustang enthusiast with a knack for restoration projects, this classic pony car might be your ticket to a remarkable automotive journey. So, are you up for the challenge? Share your thoughts and comments below, and let’s embark on this Mustang restoration adventure together!
