Ford Mustang History
Ford Mustang History
Everyone's Most-Loved "Muscle Car" For Decades-The Ford Mustang
The new and exciting Ford Mustang features 5.0L, V8 power and you get the stylish, racy sports vehicle that has been loved by many since the 1965 introduction of this "muscle car" or "pony car." Today's version also offers a V6 model that offers an unbelievable 31 miles per gallon, with more than 300 horsepower. Both are available in Sporty Coupe Convertible and even the California Mustang package. Whichever model you choose to own, be prepared to "be transformed," regardless.
Vintage Mustangs And Their Collectors
Many collectors of vintage Ford Mustangs that think these "retro-futuristic" new releases offer everything the classics do, but there are many clubs devoted to older "pony cars" and there are many collectors that belong to them. It does not matter whether you own a 1967 Mustang Fastback or a 1973 Mach 1, original models can be restored to their original grandeur and have the power to win almost any street-race, but they are featured in car shows and parades. There are many aftermarket Mustang parts, products, body kits, racing seats and other accessories to personalize or customize your car, regardless of the year.
Changes Throughout History
When Lee Iacocca was General Manager of the company in 1964, product manager Donald Frey, came to him with the idea of a sportier car, which utilized a mixture of the Fairlane and Falcon. By mid-1964, the early 1965 Mustang model was released with a straight-6 engine, available in a sport coupe or convertible. Because of the wild horsepower image, based on the wild horses of the same name, the term "pony car" was derived and many owners will affectionately refer to them by that name.
In late 1965, the GT package featured a V8 and by 1967, the Fastback body shape started to re-shape the image to an individual brand that street-racing fans fell in love with. Until 1970, the increase in engine size dominated, since oil embargos and crisis were not a factor in car production, unlike later. By 1974, the Mustang II was released to compete in the marketplace of sportier cars with smaller engines for better fuel-efficiency. Avid fans clamored for the bigger V8 engines, regardless and in 1975, that version was released. Today's models incorporate changes that still offer power.
Only A Few Major Production Changes
Because the 1979 Ford Mustang saw the "Fox platform" change, horsepower capacity dropped to a dismal 120. This change instigated a slump in popularity that lasted for over a decade. By 1994, a re-design was necessary and the SN-95 was introduced. The SN-95 body change was sleek, with rounded curves, but it was stylish, reviving the brand. While the fastback was discontinued in 1994, it still managed to be selected as the pace car for the Indy 500 that year and wound up being the Motor Trend's Car of the Year for the third time, during its reign.
Popular Versions And Appearance Enhancements
Popular versions include the Fastback, Mach 1, Boss, Shelby GT350, Cobra, Mustang II, and California Mustang, which contained different options. The 2000's saw a revival of the retro styles and by 2005, there was a complete focus on retro features and looks, containing the best of past favorites. In today's versions, the philosophy of "driver transformation" still runs true, making it one of the original "muscle cars" to remain in constant production, since its introduction. For those that love the "pony car," there are many ways to "be transformed." You can also "transform your pony car" with the many body kits available.
So, enjoy browsing our extensive collection of the best Mustang articles and happy driving!
Mustang Article Links
Ford Mustang Parts
Mechanical
Buying and Selling
Mustang Years
History Of The Ford Mustang
Mustang TV Commercials
Videos
Ford Mustang Parts
Authentic Ford Mustang Parts
If you are lucky enough to have one of the original classic Ford Mustangs, finding authentic Ford Mustang parts can be essential to the restoration process and essential to proper mechanical operation. If you want to keep your "pony car" in tip-top condition, you probably already realize the importance of regular maintenance. There are many different parts and products for replacement, but many enthusiasts like the enhancement products, including those that enhance the appearance, improve the comfort of the ride or increase the performance. There are many people that treasure this vehicle because of the "muscle car" reputation and the sporty appearance. When you consider the heritage, it was ahead of its time, when the first models hit the market in mid-1964.
Upgraded Reliability And Drivability
Of course, not every enthusiast chases after the classic versions and the re-birth of the retro look is now futuristic, in the newest models of Ford Mustang. They are sportier than ever and feature more power than many cars in their same vehicle class. There are some that say they feel too much like the original "muscle cars," but there are others that love the upgraded reliability and drivability, when compared to the classic models. Whichever side of the fence you are on, there are some features that are improved, but many of them are reminiscent of the past versions, in the best way. This makes you realize the proud heritage of this car, but many of today's avid fans share commonalities with those that loved the original classic models, when they were first introduced in late 1964.
Stock Ford Parts - Is it Stock? It is Really
Ford Aftermarket Parts
Mustang Body Kits Come In A Variety Of Choices
Mustang Accessories Offer Increased Performance And Sportier Appeal
Upgrade Your Ride With Custom Ford Mustang Seats
Mechanical
Learn To Handle Ford Mustang Mechanically
Every avid Mustang fan loves the mechanical aspects of the car, which has always made it a powerful contender in many street races and it gained a reliable reputation on the track, as well. When you think about the ways you can improve the performance of the Ford Mustang, mechanically, there are many people that love increasing the horsepower through the addition of twin turbo or supercharger additions. Chassis stiffening or upgraded braking systems, exhaust headers and other upgrades can make it run more effectively or faster, handle corners better and stop quicker, when it comes to upgrading the entire operation of this vehicle. Since there are many parts that can be enhanced mechanically, most hobby modifiers realize it is a total system that might require a total system mentality. This means it needs the capability to handle more power from the engine, right through the drive train, braking system and steering or suspension systems.
Useful Tips for Operating Performance
The sporty profile is part of the reason it is such a good specimen for those that like to enhance the aspects of the car's operating performance ability. When you want to find out some of the different enhancements that are made to the performance of this vehicle, you might be surprised to find there are wide varieties of aftermarket parts and products available for the Ford Mustang. In fact, there are many body kits and exterior or interior appearance enhancements available, too. This helps to lend to the racing persona that many Mustang owners want their car to display because you can buy Shaker Hoods or racing seats. While many of these cars offered superior power, compared to other vehicles in their class, the enhancements that are made for performance purposes make it an intimidating contender, regardless.
Restoring your Classic Ford Mustang
Ford Mustang Modular Engine Swaps
History of the First Generation Ford Mustang Engine
Understanding The Power Behind The 5.0 Mustang Engine
What is So Special About The Roush Mustang
Joining The Class Of Turbo Mustangs
Buying and Selling
Learn to Buy and Sell Mustangs Like a Pro
If you need some pointers about buying and selling Mustangs, you may have come to the right place, whether you are interested in the vintage models or some of the latest ones. For one thing, if you need to know anything about this amazing "muscle car" that everybody has loved for decades, there are all kinds of things devoted to it. Whether you are searching for enhancement body kits or upgraded racing seats, there are a few things to look for when you are thinking about purchasing one or getting rid of one. The first thing you need to figure out is your favorite body styles of the ‘Stang and there are many popular ones to choose from. Whether you love the classic versions of California Mustang, the Shelby GT500, or the popular Mach 1, you probably are torn about which one to purchase. If you already own one, you are probably dismayed about getting rid of it, unless it is to buy an upgraded performance model.
Highly Marketable Mustangs
Those that have taken a look at the newest models might be impressed with the power of the 5.0, V8 engine and the "retro-futuristic" appearance that is so reminiscent of the original versions. If you are thinking about purchasing one, there are plenty of aftermarket parts and products you can think about purchasing and some of them will make them highly marketable on the resale market. There are some popular enhancement versions, such as the Roush Mustang, for example. When you think about the various body kits that are available, you can make your machine as radical and stylish as you want, whether you are purchasing one or getting ready to sell one to get an upgraded model.
Tips for Shopping a Used Ford Mustang
How to Read Your Ford Mustang VIN - 1965 through 1973
What is So Special About The California Mustang
What About Ford Mustang Clubs for Pony Car Collectors
What Changes Are In Store For the 2014 Ford Mustang
Mustang Years
Introduction of the Ford Mustang
When the Ford Mustang was introduced in 1964 (and a half), it become a constant with the performance vehicle fans, so when it comes to defining the Mustang Years, it can be difficult to pinpoint, unless you have a particular favorite model. Since the official introduction in 1965, there have been different models to choose from, featuring a variety of body variations and plenty of different engine sizes and accessories. Since this car seems to never go out of style, there is always speculation about what the next model years of Mustang will feature. In fact, the television commercials are on for the 2011 model, but they are already talking about the engineering and design changes for the 2014 generation. Of course, the real avid fans will realize that this will be the 50th anniversary generation, so there are many "pony car" fans that cannot wait for that release, although it could be a tamer version, fuel-efficiency wise, according to some speculators.
Your Favorite Mustang Year of Production
Whichever years were your favorite in the history of this car, one thing is certain-it probably had racy power and sporty appearance involved. Most people that love this car, no matter what years of production, those are the first two things that seem to get mentioned. From the time of its introduction until now, there have been some improvements in various options, accessories and design, but the core characteristics of the vehicle have remained the same, with the same philosophy or personality. When you think about the reputation of the ‘Stang, it is a popular "muscle car" with a sporty appearance, regardless of model. Whether you love the Mach 1, the Shelby, Boss, Cobra or the Fastback and other models, there are many different years that are likely your favorites.
Ford Mustang 64 - 66
A Legend is Born 1964 - 1966 Ford Mustang
Ford Mustang 67 - 69
From Fastback to Boss 1967 - 1969 Ford Mustang
The 1967 Mustang Fastback-An American Classic
Ford Mustang 70 - 73
1970 Boss - 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1
1972 - 1973 Mustang the Death of the Classic American Muscle Car
Ford Mustang 74 - 78
1974 Lee Iacocca’s Mustang II - 1976 Cobra II and the King Cobra
Ford Mustang 1976 - 1978 Ford Mustang the Rebirth of the Stang
Ford Mustang 79 - 84
A New Generation Mustang - 1981 Ford Mustang a Disappointment
Mustang GT - The Boss is Back - Ford Mustang Turns 20 Years Old
Ford Mustang 85 - 90
Ford Mustang History and Development Introduction of the SVO
1985 Ford Mustang - 1987 Ford Mustang - No Ford Probe
Road and Track Ten Best - Mustang LX 5.0L Convertible
Ford Mustang 91 - 94
SVT Cobra - Ford Mustang Indianapolis 500 Pace Car
1992 All Time Sales Low - 1995 Ford’s New Mustang Project
Ford Mustang 95 - 99
Ford Mustang History and Development 1995 - 1998
Ford Mustang History and Development 1998 - 1999
Ford Mustang 00 - 05
The Ford Mustang Cobra - Big Changes in 2001
The Fifth Generation Mustang - 40th Anniversary Mustang
Ford Mustang 06 - 10
Forty-Five Years of Mustangs a Look at the 2009 Ford Mustang
A Look at the 2008 Ford Mustang
2007 Mustang Flexes Its Muscle in Grabber Orange
History Of The Ford Mustang
Learn More About Ford Mustang History
When it comes to the history of the Ford Mustang, it was in 1964 when the car was first introduced, under the leadership of Lee Iacocca. Meant to compete with the other sportier models being introduced, it was released in 1965 for purchase and the public fell in love with the sporty and racy-looking coupe. Since those original cars were sold, there is a long history of these sporty, racy cars, when it comes to the various motor sizes and the full brute power of these muscle cars. Through the progression of the classic models of the Coupe, Mach 1, Fastback, Shelby GT500, Boss, Billet and Cobra or Mustang II, you can find a history that is overlapping. In fact, there were no less than seven production models of Mustang being manufactured by Ford at the same time, during the popular reign of the Mach 1 era.
History of a True American Sports Car
If you are interested in the archives of this popular racecar, it helps to know that the history has always been based on a sporty vehicle that can transform your life. For most of the avid Mustang owners, this might seem to be the case because they usually stay devoted fans for life. Many of the classic versions are actively collected and there are many clubs that are devoted to this favorite car. In fact, it is one of the only domestic models that have been in constant production since its introduction, which is some indication. While there have been a variety of body feature changes and the engines have gotten bigger, and then smaller, the 2011 features a racy 5.0 V8, offering up more power than most cars in the market. In 2014, the next generation of Mustangs will be introduced, as the model line turns 50 years old. Everybody is waiting to see what the next chapter of this automotive history book has to offer.
There is No Car More Fun than the Mustang Convertible
A brief History of Mustang Wheels
Ford Mustang Memorabilia
A Second Look at Ford Mustang Memorabilia
Ford Mustang Saleen-Parnelli Jones, a Car Collector’s Dream
Ford Mustang Cobra - The Success Continues
The Ford Mustang Shelby: A Timeless Classic of Power and Style
Twenty Things you Probably did not Know About Mustangs
The History of the Ford Mustang
History Behind The Mustang Mach 1
There is Not Many Cars That Resemble The Classic Mustang
Mustang TV Commercials
A Look at the Mustang Through Its Ads
If you have ever seen the older Mustang TV commercials, you would probably remember them for their transformative depictions, especially when it comes to appealing to women drivers. Over the years, there have been many classic television ads that depict an average woman stepping into the car and emerging a full-blown diva. Since the marketing strategy of this car has been directed toward what the car can do to enhance your entire life, the advertising spots have been geared towards making the owner become a different person, when they get behind the wheel of the car. There are plenty of the older television ads that depict this type of marketing strategy and it continued for a few decades, but they have made a few changes to keep up with the times.
Putting the Muscle in Muscle Car
Consider the changes from the 1968 Mustang commercial that depicts a lab-coated scientist going through a transformation to an irresistible diva. The latest 2011 ad for the Ford Mustang has something to appeal to those that are searching for performance power, technological savvy, and even some wild music to bring out the radical side of the 5.0 engine rumbling at 7,000 RPM. It makes sure to point out the 412 horsepower motor, 390 pounds of torque, and anybody that is into the mechanical appeal of this new car will be smitten by the racetrack setting and the description of the engine, 6-speed transmission, and exhaust system. You have to consider the 5.0 V8 is bringing back power at a time when most cars are downsized and wimped out. The television spots certainly point out the clear mechanical advantage that the Mustang has to offer.
Coming Soon The New 1964 Mustang TV Ad
1960s Ford Concept Cars and the 1965 Mustang
1966 Ford Mustang TV Commercials by Ford
1967 Ford Shelby GT350 and GT500 TV Commercials by Ford
1968 Mustang TV Commercials by Ford
1969 Ford Mustang Grande - A Classic Car Commercial
1969 Ford Mustang - 428 Cobra Jet commercial and more of 69
Ford Mustang 2011 V6.0 - TV Commercial
Videos
Videos of the Ford Mustang
When it comes to videos of the Ford Mustang, you can find them all over the place including television, performance racing websites and even YouTube. In fact, some of the best ones are being shot by amateur video masters, but the Ford television ads for the Mustang are pretty awe-inspiring. If you have seen some of them for the 5.0 V8 engine, you can see where they are bringing power back to the "muscle car" class, where there are few contenders. Whether you are looking at street-race videos or interview videos about the enhancements made to the newest models, you can find something that everybody will find interesting. You can see Mustang drag racer Dennis Bailey go air-bound, while going end over end or you can see the first 2011 Mustang to hit 8.89 running time at 148 miles per hour, with an encore trailer of the car almost hitting a wall after a wheelie. When you want some exciting recordings of all the car is capable of, there are plenty of clips to look at, whether you are a fan of the car or not.
Mustangs on Show and Go
You definitely will think about purchasing one, if you watch some of this amazing feats because there aren't many cars on the market that are capable of putting on such a show. You can find plenty of clips that have Ford designers and engineers talking about the next generation of the Mustang, and the newest generation, which might be the company's salvation, when compared to the other troubled domestic automakers. If you were not a fan of this sporty streetcar before, you probably will be after you have had a chance to see what it can do "on tape!"
Ford Shelby GT 500 Goes Euro in Germany
Mustang GT 2006 - Best Muscle Car
The 2006 Mustang GT was named Best Muscle Car, and it was the fifth time the Mustang has been named one of Car and Driver’s Best. The 2006 Mustang GT had a 4.6-liter aluminum V-8 engine that has 320 pounds per foot torque, 300 horsepower, as well as three valve heads. It also has the Ford Personal Safety System, which is designed to increase the driver’s safety and it comes standard on all Mustang models.
The 2006 Mustang commemorates the 40th anniversary of the Rent-a-Racer program that was initiated with the GT350H. Only about 500 cars were made and those 500-ish cars are only available for rent from certain Hertz dealerships (which can be located anywhere in the country).
A Mustang Year in Retrospective View
There was a lot of speculation over what would be available for the 2008 Mustang. Motor Trend magazine reported that the model Mustang Boss would make its reappearance in 2008. The proposed availability of the Mustang Boss has created something of a commotion and Mustang fans could not wait to find out more about the car. Although Ford would not yet release a press release that discusses the ins and outs of the proposed Boss model some facts about what is available for this model have been uncovered by fans.
It was very clear that Mustang would have a promising future. This car, with its very prestigious past and its crazy popular reputation has yet to disappoint its fans. It is a car that will never go out of style.
1991 Ford Mustang GT Held on to Their Goodyears
There were a few more updates to the Mustang in 1991 even as sales plunged to 98,737. The weak four boasted 105 horsepower due to a new eight plug cylinder head, but no one seemed to care much. Convertibles were given a cool power top that offered a neater appearance as it folded closer to the body. The fed hit automatic transmission cars yet again with a new edict requiring an interlock that meant the shifter would not move out of Park unless the brake pedal was pushed.
The V-8 models were gussied up with pretty five spoke allow wheels that were an inch larger than the previous year - a cool 16 inches in diameter. Tame and compliant 225/55ZR16 all season Michelins graced the LX 5.0, as opposed to the previous rough riding, tough looking bad boys Goodyear Eagle GT+4. The GTs held on to their Goodyears, but offered buyer the Michelins as an alternative at no additional cost.
Sticker prices continued to climb, putting the base price for the LX notchback to a little over $10,000. However, the V-8 convertibles remained just under $20,000. Was America falling out of love with the Ford Mustang, an American classic? The next few production years would tell the tale.
What About Ford Mustang Clubs for Pony Car Collectors?
If you have a passion for Ford Mustangs, old and new alike, you might think about joining some of the clubs that are devoted to them across. It does not matter whether you are a hobby restorer, a vintage collector or you just bought a brand new model of Ford Mustang, you will find people that share your passion. This can also help you get the best advice on aftermarket performance enhancement parts, exterior body kits and any other accessories you are searching for, no matter how old your car is!
There are certain parts of the country that feature competitions in car shows and some host trade shows, specifically offering aftermarket parts and products for their Mustang. Not only can you find what you are looking for to enhance your vehicle, but you also have a ready-made marketplace to buy, sell, or trade your vehicle. You might be surprised at the insight you can gain from some of the original collectors of these cars, especially those that specialize in modifying them, whether mechanically or cosmetically. Most people enjoy the camaraderie, more than anything.
The Mustang Club of America, Ford Mustang Owners Association and some of the state organizations come to mind, for most people. When you are searching for a non-profit organization that is dedicated to the preservation, care, history, and enjoyment of all model years and individual styles of Ford Mustang, you can find them. It does not matter whether you own a Shelby, Boss, Saleen, Roush, or SVT Cobra, it is fun to search for advice and forums that feature information about these popular models. Of course, we specialize in offering a web blog where owners of Ford Mustangs can find out about the best clubs to join in their area, region, or state.
With advances in technology, it is easy to join and participate through the Internet, but you can gain valuable insight, without a lot of time or research involved, when you have a question. Whether you are thinking about upgrading the mechanical aspects of your Ford Mustang or you are considering the purchase of body kits to convert your car into a unique personality, like a Roush, you can find many helpful pieces of advice, including the best discount pricing.
Another great feature you can look for are the online magazines or newsletters for Mustang owners because many of the club websites will feature all kinds of articles and information. We feature a variety of information, but we know how you may want to research several sources and we support any organizations that can help you find what you are searching for. In fact, it is possible they will be featured here, so we can be the source to help you find the best ones, if they offer valuable contributions.
It does not matter what model, year or parts, products and enhancements you are interested in- it can give you a sense of belonging, when you join any of the organizations devoted to supporting those that love their "pony cars." The "transformation" their Ford Mustang has made in their lives is a common bond, whether they are driven daily or they are a favorite hobby project.
What Changes Are In Store For the 2014 Ford Mustang?
If you are an avid fan of the Ford Mustang, you are probably searching for the anticipated changes to the next generation, to be released with the 2014 model year. Since the inception and introduction of this sporty consumer-style racing vehicle in 1964, there have been a variety of performance and appearance enhancements. With the 2005 release of the fifth generation, the next generation is greatly anticipated by those that follow this iconic vehicle, affectionately known as the "pony car."
For one thing, reports are suggesting that independent rear suspension or IRS is already in the works. According to recent news from Motor Trend, after speaking with company insiders, this is based on a couple of facts. Ford cancelled the platform that was originally going to be available in upcoming Lincolns, Australian models of Falcon and of course, probably would have been used in the Mustang, while a new global platform is in the works. There are many fans of the "pony car" that aren't too crazy about the idea, but there are probably just as many that think they shouldn't have done away with it in the first place, so it could end up being offered as an option, but it's a little far off to know, for sure.
There are other rumors that suggest changes may be based on the marketing placement and strategy of the next generation of Mustang. While Jim Farley in charge of the company's marketing has indicated that it was unlikely this model would ever become a global vehicle, it is possible it could compete with other global leaders in the marketplace, such as the smaller, yet powerful line of BMW-M3, with a twin-turbo V6 or the more exotic Nissan GT-R, depending on how they make their design changes and tweaks.
Another factor to consider about the 2014 Ford Mustang is that it will need to be a lighter car, with a modern chassis, along with more advanced technology for performance and fuel-efficiency. When you consider that the most recent models are still a little heavier than some of the competition, their fuel-efficiency meets government standards currently, but they might have stricter guidelines to follow by then.
The other thing is that the marketplace seems to be attracted to better fuel-efficiency, even though they might have to sacrifice some power. Are there enough "muscle car" buyers to support a powerful car that sacrifices fuel-efficiency? It might be unlikely, overall, so you can expect the 2014 Ford Mustang to adapt, in order to survive, according to industry insiders.
The one thing that Ford will not want to do is repeat the past mistakes it made with the Mustang II, but their new Eco-Boost technology seems to have become part of their core strategy. By using turbochargers on smaller direct-injection engines, they are producing more power, while still keeping up with fuel-efficiency standards. If this mindset stays in the forefront, there might be a unique offering when the next generation of Ford Mustangs is released in 2014.
Mustang Accessories Offer Increased Performance And Sportier Appeal
If you have just purchased a Ford Mustang, you may not have had time to start looking at Mustang accessories, but there are plenty of them to consider. Whether you are searching for increased performance or sportier appeal, you can find twin turbo charger kits, racing seats and custom striping, besides a whole array of Mustang accessories for your exhaust, interior and just about anything else you think you want to change.
For one thing, most owners of this vehicle are drawn to it because of its racy appearance, regardless of whether they are looking at the classic vintage models or the "retro futuristic" models. There are common denominators, when it comes to the owners of these muscle cars and most "Pony" fans are smitten with the vehicle from the minute they lay eyes on the perfect one to fulfill their street-rod dreams. They have been the favored vehicle among many professional racers over the years and often, it is the Mustang accessories that make the difference!
Just think about some of the stock items you could change with the wide-array of parts and products that are available to convert stock vehicles into racing vehicles that skirt the fringes of street-legal. Whether you are thinking about chrome exhausts or interior enhancements, chances are you will be looking at Mustang accessories, if you have not already. This urge to customize and personalize your muscle car is not something to be ashamed of because the aftermarket product market is vast and the owners that take advantage of it are the main reasons it exists.
What this means to you, as the owner of this adored and respected muscle car, is that you have many options to consider, when it comes to Mustang accessories. The most confusing part is figuring out what to purchase next! Most owners share a common bond, whether they have bought one of the newest models or one of the classic vintage models. The urge to take their stock vehicle into the realms of a street rod with racetrack potential is the main commonality that is evident in the Mustang accessories you can purchase.
It does not matter whether you are looking at new wheels, new racing seats or turbo charger, there are many choices to make your ride more stylish, comfortable and powerful. These are common products that are purchased by many owners of the Ford Mustang. If this sounds like you, there is little reason to worry because there is a wide array of choices, when it comes to making your vehicle more individualized, whether it is the need for more speed, a better and sportier appearance, or a more comfortable ride.
When you are searching for Mustang accessories, the important thing to realize is that there are several companies that specialize in these aftermarket products. You might want to consider those that are built on a reputation of racing, but customization and personalization are the key desire of most owners. Since there are a wide variety of products to choose from, it is a matter of deciding on the best Mustang accessories to satisfy your particular urge.