Ford - Mustang 289 1965 V8 - 1965

GENERAL:
This 1965 Ford Mustang Convertible represents a landmark piece of American automotive history. As the first full production year of the "Pony Car" revolution, the 1965 model year saw the Mustang become a cultural icon. This specific unit features the highly desirable 289 cubic inch (4.7L) V8 engine, which, in its 4-barrel carburetor configuration—often referred to as the "C-code"—produced a healthy 225 hp. This powerplant was the heart of the Mustang's performance appeal in the mid-sixties, offering a perfect balance of reliability and muscle. Mated to a rare and engaging 3-speed manual transmission, this example provides a more visceral and connected driving experience than the more common automatics of the era. Finished in a striking black-on-black color scheme with an off-white power top, the car underwent a comprehensive restoration approximately ten years ago and has been meticulously garaged ever since. With 89,000 km on the odometer, it presents in immaculate condition and remains entirely faithful to its original factory specifications using Ford-licensed parts.

BODYWORK & PAINT:
The exterior of the vehicle is finished in a deep black paint that maintains an excellent shine and is free of any scratches, dents, or visible blemishes. The bodywork is exceptionally straight throughout, showing no evidence of rust, filler, or previous accident damage. During the full restoration, every chrome element including the bumpers, grille, and window surrounds was refurbished to a high standard and currently shows no signs of pitting or deterioration. All original glass remains intact and the rubber seals for the windows and convertible top are well-preserved. Notably, no welding has been required or performed on the vehicle, leaving the floor pans, trunk, and wheel arches in solid, structural condition.

TECHNICAL:
Mechanically, the 289 V8 engine is in top form, starting reliably in all temperatures and idling smoothly without smoke or leaks. The most recent service was completed in March 2026, which included a full oil refresh and a general maintenance check. The 3-speed manual gearbox provides clean shifts and the clutch offers a positive, smooth engagement. The standard drum brakes are fully functional and effective for a vehicle of this period. While the suspension produces some minor noise when traveling over larger road imperfections—a characteristic typical of the 1965 Mustang’s leaf-spring and independent front wing design—the car tracks straight and the steering is precise without abnormal play. The vehicle is fitted with classic whitewall tyres and the engine bay features hoses replaced during the restoration, all currently in good condition.

INTERIOR:
The cabin is finished in black upholstery using original Ford-licensed materials and remains in excellent condition. The seats are free of rips or tears, and the carpets appear as-new throughout the footwells. The dashboard is remarkably well-preserved with no cracks, and the door cards remain in similarly high-quality condition. The power-operated off-white convertible top functions smoothly, though there is a single minor imperfection consisting of a 5 cm scratch in the headliner fabric on the rear left side. All electrical systems are fully operational, including the factory-original AM radio, heater, fan, and all dashboard gauges. For safety, the car has been updated with new 2-point seatbelts that match the original 1965 specification.

DOCUMENTS:
The car is legally registered in Portugal with a certified classic and historic vehicle status. All import duties have been fully paid and the title is clear. While no service invoices or restoration receipts were preserved by previous owners, the car comes with its original 1965 Ford owner’s books. The historical registration documents are available for review upon request to verify the vehicle's provenance and legal standing.

COLLECTION:
The vehicle is currently located in the Algarve region of Portugal. The buyer will be responsible for the collection of the car or for arranging professional transport from this location. Given its excellent mechanical state, the car is fully capable of being driven from its current location to its new home if desired.

OTHER INFORMATION:
This Mustang is a turnkey classic that requires no immediate investment to be enjoyed. It starts, drives, and stops exactly as a well-sorted first-generation Mustang should, with all courtesy lights, signals, and wipers functioning as intended. In the interest of transparency, potential buyers should note that the original AM radio only receives AM signals as per its factory 1965 specification. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a legendary American convertible that has been preserved with a focus on originality and high-quality maintenance.