Back in the 1960s, the German truck builder Krupp held the rights to the Mustang model name, and demanded $10,000 from Ford so they could sell their similarly-named car there. Copyright law certainly exists for good reasons, and owners are encouraged to protect their rights, but who in their right minds will confuse a Krupp Mustang semi-tractor with a Ford Mustang sports coupe? Ford Mustangs are rarely featured here, not due to any shortcoming of their own, but because their enduring popularity means most are not within our self-imposed budget cap. And that’s a shame, because much like, say, a BMW 2002, this is a people’s sports car, as well as a cultural icon, with plenty of upgrade and restoration parts available for all the trim levels. Even the humble T-code six, like this 1966 Ford Mustang for sale for $4300 in Vacaville, CA.
This car looks pretty complete as it concerns trim, and body panels seem to be straight with paint that seems to have had a pretty serious spit-shine. There seems to be a mismatch between the leading edge of the hood and the headlight trim on the passenger side, although fit on the surrounding panels appears okay. Note the early 1970s blue and yellow plates, evidence of a long stay in California. In spite of that, most Mustangs have rusted somewhere by now, so you’ll want to check the car out carefully.
From the rear, it appears the bumper is bowed and has surface rust, and the top of the rear seatback is sun damaged. While the car is said to run and drive, it’s registered non-operational, so hopefully the rear plate has just been tossed inside the car. The seller describes the car as a restoration project, so while things look decent on the surface for a driver, it would be interesting to know how the seller arrived at that conclusion.
Here’s the 200ci Thriftmaster six, taking up very little space in a hole meant for a V8. Look at the gap between the engine and suspension tower – you could practically stand in there while servicing the car. Looks like the oil filter and air filter housing have not been touched in ages. On the plus side, there are new fuel and brake systems, and the six’s power is fed through a 3-speed manual, so you can maximize the 120hp engine’s usefulness.
While it will need some serious cleaning and new carpets, the interior looks surprisingly decent. The blue vinyl seats almost look to be floating over the floors, and the matching dash looks good. For a long time, most people have frowned upon the six cylinder Mustang and the dowdy little sister of the line, but with a torque straight six, decent price, and readily available parts and modifications, would you consider it?
Rusty But Trusty 
January 6, 2016 at 7:17 am |
Not a bad deal if it ain’t too rusty,, I’ve got a brand new rear bumper for this car in my storeroom somewhere. If it wasn’t the entire country away from me, I’d go take a look.