3 Minutes
A Classic Icon Awaits Revival: The 1965 Ford Mustang
Few vehicles capture the spirit of American motoring quite like the Ford Mustang. Recently, a unique 1965 Mustang has surfaced online, presenting an exciting opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors. Owned by an elderly woman and parked for the last 15 years in sunny Southern California, this storied pony car is now searching for a new owner ready to bring it back to its former glory.
Background and Ownership History
Stories about vehicles with a "little old lady owner" often come with skepticism, but eBay seller dusty356b assures buyers that this Mustang is the real deal. With its entire life spent in California’s mild climate, significant weather-related damage is less of a worry than with many classic cars. The vehicle has not been started or driven in over a decade, making it a prime candidate for a full-scale automotive restoration.
Condition Assessment: What Buyers Need to Know
Aspiring restorers will notice that the Mustang’s biggest need is a comprehensive cleaning, particularly inside the cabin. The interior has withstood the years better than the exterior paintwork. Despite California's reputation for rust-free vehicles, some corrosion is present—especially on the body—so prospective buyers are advised to place the car on a lift and examine the chassis and underbody closely for hidden damage.
According to the seller, this 1965 Mustang has never been stripped for parts, meaning all major components are present. That’s an important aspect for anyone aiming to transform this project into a daily driver or even a potential show car.
Specifications and Mechanical Details
This classic Mustang originally rolled off the assembly line with a V8 engine under the hood—a highly desirable feature for muscle car enthusiasts. However, at some point in its life, the robust V8 was replaced with a six-cylinder engine, likely for practical, low-stress commuting by its previous elderly owner. While this inline-six offers reliability and ease of use, it doesn't pack the punch many collectors seek. The engine hasn’t run in more than 15 years, so a professional mechanical inspection is essential. Many buyers may opt to restore the original V8 power to recapture the Mustang’s iconic performance.
Design & Appeal
The Mustang’s classic fastback silhouette and timeless styling remain evident, even beneath years of dust. The clean lines, chrome embellishments, and distinctive badging make this 1965 model a standout in the classic car market. The interior, though in need of detailing, displays the original dash layout and period-correct features, offering an authentic vintage driving experience once restored.
Market Position & Value
Given its original condition, complete assembly, and California provenance, this Mustang represents significant value at its $6,000 asking price. Nearly 50 interested buyers have already added it to their watchlists, indicating strong market demand for worthwhile classic car projects. The car is listed for pick-up in Pleasanton, California, and a trailer is recommended due to the uncertain mechanical state.
How This Mustang Compares
Compared to other classic Mustangs on the market, this coupe stands out for its honest history, solid bones, and untapped potential. While some Mustang projects are plagued by patchwork repairs or missing components, this particular car offers a straight path toward restoration—ideal for both seasoned builders and newcomers looking for their first classic car project.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Classic Mustang Restoration Journey
With just 20 days left before the listing expires, this 1965 Ford Mustang is waiting for someone with vision and dedication. Whether you dream of cruising in a vintage pony car or want a hands-on restoration experience, this forgotten Mustang offers the perfect canvas to start your automotive adventure.
Source: autoevolution
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