Highlights
- Given as a wedding present by an American naval captain to his wife and travelled throughout Europe on board naval vessels for 15 years
- Stored in a garage for over 25 years before restoration
- Marti report confirming originality from Ford database
- Registered in France with Contrôle Technique valid until 2030
The appeal
The Ford Mustang II comes from a unique chapter in the iconic history of the pony car and is now significantly rarer than the first generation models that preceded it. Introduced in September 1973, with 1978 being the final year of this second generation, Ford used the Pinto chassis for this model. Two body styles were offered: a notchback model and a more streamlined coupe/fastback with a hatchback like this one.
This 1978 example with V6 engine has a fascinating provenance, having been given by a US Navy captain to his wife as a wedding present. The couple used the car extensively across Europe for 15 years, the captain regularly transporting the vehicle on board his ship. After the tragic death of his wife in 1994, the car was given to a friend who stored it for over 25 years before it was restored. Now registered in France with an MOT valid until 2030, this Mustang represents an attractive opportunity.
History and Documents
- Registered in France in 2021, but imported from the United States much earlier
- Presented by Stephen B Young, a captain in the US Navy, to his wife Marie-Elizabeth on their wedding day
- The couple used the car to travel the roads of Europe for 15 years
- Stephen regularly took the Mustang on board his ship
- They travelled through Spain, Italy and France
- After Marie-Elizabeth died in Paris in the summer of 1994, Stephen gave the car to his long-time friend Roger F. for a symbolic one euro.
- Roger stored the car in his garage for over 25 years
- The car was then restored by Mathieu (Lattes), its second owner in France
The Condition
- Body and underbody apparently in very good condition with no rust according to the vendor
- Recent high quality paintwork with very good overall appearance and some barely visible imperfections
- All chrome in very good condition
- New tyres with white lettering, as originally fitted (see Marti report supplied)
- The vendor states that the interior is in remarkable condition with a very high level of preservation
- Centre console
- Tinted windows
- Leather steering wheel
- 4 seats: 2+2 with folding rear seats
- Tailgate
- Ford AM/FM radio, original and still functional
- Interior mirrors adjustable from inside
- Black leather upholstery with beige wickerwork in very good condition
- Door panels, carpets and upholstery in very good condition
- Parts available at no extra charge on request to convert to King Cobra style
The Mechanicals
- 2.8-litre V6 with 105 bhp
- Three-speed automatic transmission
- Power steering
- Disc brakes
- Stainless steel exhaust system
- Everything works well, we're told
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to Car & Classic's terms and conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights arising from European consumer protection legislation do not apply. Car & Classic's returns policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your bid is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is "sold as seen", on an "as is where is" basis and without warranty. A full vehicle inspection prior to purchase is strongly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for illustrative purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final Auction or Bid price, as specified in the advert.
✓ Buyers are responsible for the collection or delivery of the vehicle. Importing vehicles may incur additional customs duties and import taxes. On request, Car & Classic can refer you to a third-party transport company. For more details, please email auctions@carandclassic.com. Prices start at €150 + VAT within the same country or €400 + VAT for cross-border journeys.
