1968 Ford Mustang 289 V8 Auto Coupe LHD
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Highlights
- A well-loved example of the iconic Notchback Mustang in 289 cu in V8 form
- Imported from Florida in 2018 by its first and current UK owner
- Much work done since import including interior, exterior and mechanical attention
- Partial engine rebuild in 2019
The Appeal
The legendary Lee Iaccoca of Ford championed the Mustang into existence in 1964 and created a whole new genre of car in the process. The Mustang was the first of the so called “Pony Cars” which all shared a key set of attributes including a long bonnet, big engine, and rear wheel drive in a compact, affordable, and stylish package.
This example looks great in its Bullitt inspired paintwork and has benefitted from an ongoing program of restoration since being acquired by the current owner in 2019. The result is a well sorted and highly useable example with the potential for the new lucky owner to improve it further still with some simple finishing jobs.
The History and Paperwork
- Not too much is known about the car’s American life
- It was imported by the current owner from Florida in 2018
- The Mustang has seemingly benefitted from the dry and warm Floridian climate
- The current owner became the first UK keeper when the car was registered here in 2019
- Since then, the car has undergone a rolling restoration
- A good selection of paperwork is included with the car
- This includes the current V5 in the name of the owner
- There are various documents relating to the import and UK registration
- A number of invoices are on hand, documenting some key work undertaken
- The Mustang is registered as a historic vehicle
- As a result, the car is understood to be MOT and VED exempt
The Interior
- One of the key design criteria for the Mustang was that it could seat four
- As a result, the car’s interior is surprisingly spacious and commodious
- It presents very well with its white vinyl seats and door cards being in excellent shape
- The seat covers have been replaced in its current ownership by Plush Interiors of Leicester
- New carpets have also been recently fitted and, hence, are in excellent condition
- The headlining was newly fitted in 2020 by US car specialists, Moonshine Motors
- The original black dashboard is in a fine, original condition
- A deep dished chrome and leather sports steering wheel is fitted
- The rear parcel shelf requires a trim piece to cover the body shell apertures
- The original door card arm rests are currently missing
- The large boot remains untrimmed giving a good indication of the great condition of the floor pan
- Overall, it’s a great and period correct interior
- Just a couple of minor areas would benefit from finishing with much of the hard work done
The Exterior
- The Mustang has benefitted from a full exterior respray in 2019
- This was undertaken by Custom Paintworks of Stoke on Trent
- The owner specified extra metallic flake to be added to the paint for extra “pop”
- The colourway is inspired by the “Steve McQueen Green” of the famous Bullitt Mustang
- The paintwork presents very well with a machine mop and polish likely to pay dividends
- There is a small crack in the paintwork (pictured) on the offside rear wing
- The chrome work of the bumpers, grill and window surrounds is bright and original
- Some trim pieces and badges are currently missing
- The fixing holes for these are evident on the body ahead of the B pillars
- These could easily be sourced and affixed by a new owner if required
- The Mustang sits on 15x7 “telephone dial” alloys which are in a fine condition
- These were understood to have been reconditioned in 2021
- All light lenses and cabin glass appears original and in great, used condition
- Screen rubbers have been replaced front and rear
- The underside has recently been professionally cleaned and sealed
The Mechanics
- The Mustang is powered by the obligatory 289 cu in, small block V8 engine
- A well proven and robust unit originally producing well over 200bhp
- Power is fed to the rear wheels via a three-speed automatic gearbox
- The Mustang has benefitted from much mechanical work in its current tenure
- This includes a partial engine rebuild in 2019 undertaken by J&S Automotive
- This comprised fitting new stem seals, top end gaskets and thermostat
- A new upgraded aluminium radiator was also fitted at this point
- The timing was also set at this juncture and fuel hoses were replaced
- In 2020 inner and outer track rod ends were replaced
- The starter motor was also reconditioned at this time
- In 2021 a full service was performed
- This included a gearbox oil flush, carburettor, and brake service
- A recent 4-wheel alignment has been undertaken
- The car has undergone an annual health check by specialists, Built by Mike
- As a result of this diligent care the car is reported to be in fine mechanical condition
- It has enjoyed regular trips to shows and family events including motorway runs
- The original chromed air cleaner body (not pictured) will be included with the car
Summary
When someone mentions an American sports car, it is hard not to imagine the muscular profile of the original Mustang, probably in this favoured “Notchback” configuration. Steve McQueen’s action thriller “Bullitt,” that did so much to promote the Mustang, coincidentally was released in 1968, the year of this very car.
This is a great example of this original Pony Car with a low, original mileage and benefitting from an extensive programme of restoration and refurbishment. All the major work has been professionally undertaken, resulting in a highly useable and eye-catching classic. Some minor finishing work will likely result in a truly first-class example of this iconic American sports coupe.
Notice to offerers
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only*.** Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased.
A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
All bidding, buying and offers are subject to our Terms and Conditions.
Vehicle specification
- Year 1968
- Make Ford
- Model mustang 289 v8 auto coupe lhd
- Colour Bullitt Green
- Odometer 88,244 Miles
- Engine size 4700
Auction Details
- Seller Type Private
- Town Leicester
- Location Leicestershire
- Country United Kingdom
26 bids
- scott.s•••• £14,000 21/11/22
- rob-bee•••• £13,500 21/11/22
- scott.s•••• £13,250 21/11/22
- rob-bee•••• £13,000 21/11/22
- william•••• £12,500 21/11/22
- scott.s•••• £11,750 21/11/22
- rob-bee•••• £11,500 21/11/22
- william•••• £11,250 21/11/22
- rob-bee•••• £11,000 21/11/22
- scott.s•••• £10,250 21/11/22
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