Thursday, July 15, 2010

1964 Mustang Convertible

1964 Mustang Convertible
Were available in a Convertible or a Coupe the fastback wasn't introduced until the summer of 1964.

The Vehicle Identifications Numbers where made in line with the available components and later changed with the introduction of full production 1965 Mustangs.

The pre-production models where all still stamped 1965; came from the Dearborn plant. This dictated the first two characters and

VIN 5FO8DXXXXXX

VIN 5FO3DXXXXXX

Many options even in the early model where available, Factory D code 289 4V, factory 4 speed top loader. A power top for the convertible and air conditioning for all.

The example in the photo is original Raven Black exterior, white standard interior in good condition. Excellent straight and rust free body, although in need of a rebuild it is a great example of something from the era. Motor has been rebuilt. Drives well.

Also the original features include generator and large 64 style horns on front rails with the originally Spinner hubcaps, fords mustangs were stylish from the start.

So what's the difference between a '64-1/2 and a '65 Mustang? Not much and yet everything. From 50 feet away, they look the same; close up, they host quite a number of differences. The '64-1/2 Mustangs have always been '65 Mustangs, by their stamp but that's where it ends. As enthusiasts, we call them "'64-1/2" because it's what it is, but it's also a cult thing. Early '65 Mustangs have the distinction of being the first batch of Ponies ever produced. They were the initial part of the Mustang madness that swept the world in 1964. And if you have a "'64-1/2" built at Dearborn, that makes it even more significant in the relative scheme of things, because it was born in the motherland.

When the Mustang entered production early in March 1964, it didn't have many of the features it would have later on; call it a re-skinned Falcon with bucket seats. To be a '64-1/2 at all, a Mustang has to be factory-equipped with a generator charging system, a 170ci six (U-code), a 260 2V (F-code), or a 289 4V (D-code) low-compression, large horns mounted down on the frame behind the radiator, a brake light pressure switch on the master cylinder, a center "off" heater fan switch, and a generator charge light, just to name the basics. These are features exclusive to Mustangs built between early March and July 31, 1964 (scheduled build date code only).

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