Just when we thought all the affordable Mustang convertibles had vanished this handsome 1965 ragtop shows up on our doorstep. With a silky smooth 200-inch six a manual transmission and a very authentic look to it this car neatly blurs the line between survivor and restoration. And you just can't go wrong with an early pony car a car that makes everyone stop and watch as it goes by.The color is called Prairie Bronze and it is indeed this car's original color. We don't see many this color but it's a wonderful contrast to the more familiar red green and black Mustangs that fill our showrooms. It was surely repainted a few years ago and no it's not perfect but that's part of its charm and makes this a Mustang you can drive without worries. The body panels line up well and it's clear that the car has never been hit or rusty. In particular the trunk lid fits very well something that's often a challenge and the doors close with a reassuring sound that's often absent on convertibles that have led a rough life. It does wear GT-style fog lamps in the front grille but they always look great and it appears to be the lone "upgrade" that this car received when it was rebuilt. The rest of the bright trim is excellent again not concours perfect but so straight that it's hard to believe it's anything but factory-issue.The black interior was completely refurbished two years ago including new standard seat covers new carpets replacement door panels and even little stuff like the dash pad and steering wheel center cap so it all looks very fresh. The crisply detailed look is surely due to the new center console which also houses the shifter for the 3-speed manual transmission as well as new door handles that sparkle in the sun. Many folks who drive their Mustangs prefer the standard upholstery whose textured surfaces are a bit cooler on warm days. A later AM/FM radio has been installed in the dash but that appears to be the only non-stock item inside the car. A black power vinyl convertible top with plastic rear window only adds to the clean overall look and the car includes a matching black boot.You numbers guys have already deduced that this car originally carried a C-code 289 which oddly enough has been replaced with the smooth 200 cubic inch inline-six. Why that is we can't say but the swap isn't a demerit and I'll tell you why. One the six is impressively durable and very economical making this a hobby car that will never eat you out of house and home. Two it doesn't give up much performance to the V8 with the manual gearbox behind it. And three the lighter weight combined with V8-spec suspension and brakes means that this Mustang feels downright frisky in the corners. It certainly looks the way the factory would have done things complete with Ford Blue on the engine and air cleaner as well as reproduction decals wherever necessary. Underneath it's solid and roadworthy with signs of regular maintenance like the new exhaust system so no worries about getting in and having some fun. Finally those are original wheel covers that give it a traditional look all wrapped in 185/75/14whitewall radials giving it just the right look and feel.Look at the price then look at the car. Mustangs like this don't come along very often so give us a call today!
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