May 2, 2023  •  For Sale  •  14 Comments

Stored Since 1977: 1965 Ford Mustang GT Convertible

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This 1965 Ford Mustang GT Convertible proves there are still desirable classics hidden in garages and barns just waiting for an enthusiast capable of returning them to their former glory. This gem has sat since 1977, but it is a complete and unmolested classic showing plenty of potential. It is set to find a new home, with the seller listing it here on Craigslist in Worcester, Massachusetts. They set their price at $34,000, but the fact it has been listed for over a week suggests they may not have been inundated with genuine inquiries.

The history of this Mustang is unclear beyond the fact it last saw the road in 1977. The seller doesn’t supply much information, and the photo quality is not great. Its Wimbledon White paint shines nicely, with no significant flaws or defects. The matching soft-top is free from rips and tears, and the fit is tight. The rear window is dirty, but I don’t think it is particularly cloudy. The panels are straight, with tight and consistent gaps. I can’t spot any apparent rust, and the lack of significant corrosion in the engine bay could mean this Convertible is rock-solid. It retains the correct GT features like the badges, stripes, and grille with integrated foglights. The trim is in good order for a survivor, and there are no glass issues.

There is no questioning the consistency of this Mustang’s presentation and condition, with the interior on par with the exterior. It features optional “Pony” upholstery in White vinyl, and while it isn’t perfect, there are no rips or tears. It is crying out for a deep clean, which should allow it to present nicely. The seat foam, particularly on the passenger seat, might be becoming soft, and a long-term goal could be foam replacement. The dash and pad are in good order, as is the carpet. It isn’t loaded with optional extras, featuring a factory AM radio, a wood-rimmed wheel, and the desirable Rally Pac gauges.

Lifting the hood reveals this Mustang’s greatest mystery. A ’65 GT should feature an A-Code or K-Code 289ci V8, but the seller provides no information on the engine specifications. That is disappointing because it dramatically affects this classic’s potential value. A GT with a K-Code gives the driver a healthy 271hp and is the more desirable of the two V8s. However, visual indications suggest this is the A-Code, meaning the driver has 225hp at their disposal. The power feeds to the road via a four-speed manual transmission. It would have allowed the car to cover the ¼-mile in 15.5 seconds in its prime. The seller indicates this GT last saw active service in 1977, but it runs and drives. It needs the usual amount of essential maintenance before being considered roadworthy. This includes replacing the fluids, performing a complete service, replacing the plugs, plug wires, fuel tank, fuel pump, brake work, and a carburetor rebuild. A competent new owner could tackle many of those tasks in a home workshop, representing a rewarding way to consume a few hours.

First Generation Mustangs are a staple of the classic scene, with early examples like this 1965 GT Convertible commanding significant attention. The asking price means it is not an affordable project, but if it is structurally sound, returning it to its rightful place on our roads as a survivor should not break the bank. The greatest unknowns for me involves the engine and whether it is rust-free. The seller doesn’t elaborate on what is under the hood or if the car is numbers-matching. I always recommend an in-person inspection before a buyer commits their cash, and that would be the case here. However, returning it to active service for summer appears an achievable goal if everything checks out. I hope that happens because this beauty has spent too many decades hibernating.

Comments

  1. CCFisher
    May 2, 2023 at 7:28am

    Based on the engine’s appearance and the lack of “HIGH PERFORMANCE” emblems behind the “289” emblems on the front fenders, this is an A-code. Since only K-code Mustangs had a partial VIN stamped on the engine, there is no way to know for certain if the engine is original to the car. Casting dates on the engine close to the the car’s build date are as close as you can come.

    Like 6
  2. Troy
    May 2, 2023 at 10:14am

    Two reasons why its still for sale 1) advertising on the wrong website c’mon pony up the money and post it here or someplace where it will get international attention.
    2) price is to high for a undocumented mileage claim nice looking ride

    Like 5
    • John Eidschun
      May 8, 2023 at 10:31pm

      I would like to know where to advertise a classic muscle car I’ve got a 99 Cobra SVT convertible one owner 118,000 Mi on the car it’s Immaculate needs nothing it’s better than to roll up the showroom floor and it’s been procharged with the 4.6 it’s a 5-speed it’s got over 500 horse where is the site you’re talking about listing if you could help me since I’m a disabled veteran and I want to sell it I sure would appreciate it thank you my name is John my number is 915-407-4369

      Like 0
  3. JGeezerMember
    May 2, 2023 at 10:22am

    I think people forget the “more desirable” K-code was sold with just a 4 month, 4,000 mile engine warranty. Not something most people found desirable!

    Like 4
    • DRC
      May 3, 2023 at 1:10am

      Had a friend who had a K-code his warranty was 3 months/3,000 miles.

      Like 0
  4. C Force
    May 2, 2023 at 11:03am

    Would of liked to see a shot w/o the air cleaner.there could be a 2bbl under there,you never know.it would change the value greatly.if ford was smart they should of made em’ all 4bbl and left the 2bbl carbs for the trucks.

    Like 3
  5. James Quinn
    May 2, 2023 at 11:09am

    It has a 66 rally pac.

    Like 0
  6. William Sullivan
    May 2, 2023 at 12:57pm

    I live in the city this car is located and have a strong interest. I love Mustangs, especially 65’s since it was my first car way back when. Does anyone know a Mustang expert in New England?

    Like 1
    • Dave M
      May 2, 2023 at 2:31pm

      Ask your question on vintage mustang forum. It’s likely there’s someone nearby that can help you out.

      Like 2
  7. Maggy
    May 2, 2023 at 1:47pm

    It’s going to take a lot more time then a few hours to get this Mustang roadworthy safely if it has sat since 77.

    Like 2
    • Neil
      May 4, 2023 at 5:16pm

      Car has been completely gone thru. Seller claims it drives as new. You should check out the listing and get the facts.

      Like 1
  8. Timmy VMember
    May 2, 2023 at 7:13pm

    From the VIN:

    5 (1965)
    F (Dearborn)
    08 (convertible)
    A (289 4bbl)

    Like 0
  9. Timmy VMember
    May 2, 2023 at 7:32pm

    76b (convertible w/deluxe “pony” interior)
    H (paint code for Caspian Blue)
    F2 (white crinkle upholstery with blue carpet/dash pad)

    Like 0
  10. Robert Levins
    May 2, 2023 at 8:30pm

    Although this is a very nice car and it might even be worth it , people are starting to get nervous about their money. I love these Mustangs and this one is what I’d be interested in – if I could justify buying it. Classic cars are “awesome “ but they are also “discretionary income “ choices. I guess I have to say to myself – “ Is it wise to buy my classic car now?”. Great article.

    Like 3

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