Since its inception, the Ford Mustang has been a solid force. Over time, it has captured the imagination of powerful and dedicated car owners alike.
The Mustang has made its way into all different aspects of culture, becoming a piece of Americana that undoubtedly forms part of automotive history. The car’s official unveiling at the 1964 New York World’s Fair was witnessed by attendees and was seen in nearly every media available today. Adding to the model’s star power were his silver screen appearances in 1964’s Goldfinger and 1965’s Thunderball, making his mark with James Bond’s DB5.
Few cars have continued to remain so important after five decades of production.
The appeal of a first-generation Mustang isn’t limited to those who grew up with just one, or those who rate it their dream car. The 1965 Mustang has always seemed to be a favorite of all ages across all age groups. It doesn’t hurt that his design has also aged nicely.
Although there are many Mustangs in the world, in just about any flavor you could wish for, you may occasionally come across one that sticks with you. Sometimes a first-generation Mustang captures your mind and heart and makes a lasting impression.
One of those cars, a custom 1965 Ford Mustang, did just that and sold without reserve at the Las Vegas 2022 Auction, which took place from June 30 to July 2 in the West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
As a monocoque, the body was destined to use a Scott chassis with RideTech coils. The process requires a few modifications to the floor to fit any type of complete frame. Chassis frame rails run the contour of the body into the rocker plate. The chassis and frame play a central role in dictating how the car performs, and are the “bones” of the car. The main benefit of recent chassis updates is improved suspension geometry while eliminating free-play in the chassis and suspension.
In 1965, nearly three-quarters of Mustang buyers chose to put a V8 engine in the car. At the time, the displacement was 260ci with 164 horsepower. Soon, the 289ci engine came along with a two-cylinder carburetor and 200 hp or a four-cylinder carburetor with 210 hp or 225 hp or a Hi-Po 271hp configuration.
Other changes over the years have included replacing the alternator with an alternator, more paint colors, and some subtle interior upgrades. Differences between earlier and later 65 Mustangs led to the distinction between “1964” or “1964 ½” and “65” cars, even though Ford technically sold them all as 1965 models.
The vehicle shown is the recipient of a serious powerplant upgrade and now includes a 5.0-liter Coyote 460-hp engine, mated to a TREMEC T56 6-speed manual transmission that sends power through the driveshaft to a 9-inch Moser rear axle.
Stopping power is provided by the Hydro-Boost brake system and Wilwood brakes on all four corners while rolling on the Boyd Coddington wheels.
Finished in white with metallic gray striping and red accents, its most striking feature is the cut-out bonnet, which reveals the engine’s unique manifold. The exterior is fitted with flush-mounted Kindig-it door handles, RingBrothers hood screws, and taillight bezels.
Inside, the car adorns the leather interior in Oxblood Red. An interesting feature is the custom rear seat that appears to be curved back rather than offering a straight back as it normally would.
Additional interior upgrades include a Boyd Coddington steering wheel and a Memphis audio system. The custom Mustang also features Keyless Guard Dawg and push-to-start entry.
Powered by today’s technologies and tastefully integrated with the silhouette of a 1965 Mustang, this Mustang will stay with you.
