1965 FORD MUSTANG CONVERTIBLE

The first Mustang was introduced on April 17, 1964 at the New York World’s Fair. Designed by Eugene “Gene” Bordinat, and introduced as a fantasy development of the humble Ford Falcon, the car was soon established as Ford’s iconic “Pony Car”. (The Mustang is a small, wild horse found in America). The hardtop coupe style sold for 2,368 Dollars. Based on the Falcon’s simple and strong chassis, its suspension, many parts and the 101 bhp 170 cu.in. 6-cylinder engine, it became Ford’s second

mid-sized car. However, knowing the American public’s love for powerful cars. Ford offered an optional V8 engine with three power levels, one of which was ready by June 1964. Thus the design, echoing the Jaguar XK 120’s style, and intended for the American public, led to the creation of a new market for powerful, small performance cars with short rear, long nose, and a flashy, stylish body.

With an original annual sales target of 100,000, the Mustang sold 121,538 units in its first four months. Manufactured until August 17, 1964 and known as 1964½ models, these early Mustangs were subsequently described as 65s, because Ford did not officially manufacture a 1964½ Mustang. The August-on 1965 models described as late, accounted for 559,451. So officially a total of 680,989 1965 Mustangs were built.

Mustangs starred in James Bond’s “Goldfinger” and Steve McQueen’s “Bullitt” movies, and were considered the most successful Ford launch since the Model A. Known as the car that created “Mustang Mania”, the Mustang Convertible in our Museum, with its 289 cu.in. V8 200 bhp Challenger engine, was purchased at an auction in the United States, brought to Istanbul and fully renovated: the work included the upholstery. The “crown jewel” of the collection for the Ataman Family, it has been frequently used in rallies and displayed in car exhibits in Turkey.