The Ford Mustang went on sale April 17, 1964, with a base price of $2,368.
To commemorate Mustang’s 35th anniversary, Ford has come up with a limited-edition (5,500 copies to be sold in the U.S., a few still left) anniversary GT coupe and convertible.
The GT, powered by a 4.6-liter, 260-h.p. V-8, features body-colored hood scoop, deck-lid spoiler, side scoops and rocker panel moldings; 17-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels with galloping pony logo; black, silver, white or red exterior finishes; and a variety of 35th anniversary logos.
Looks good and doesn’t act its age, but this is no Cobra. Don’t expect slap-you-back-in-your-seat acceleration. And be prepared for stiff sports-tuned suspension. Ford has yet to adopt General Motors’ new sports-car philosophy that no pain-no gain, makes no sense.
But keep in mind that soon, perhaps 2002, a Mustang will arrive, built off the same platform as the Lincoln LS sedan and the coming Ford Thunderbird coupe, that promises better ride and handling as well as better performance, not to mention more room.
We tested the GT convertible, basically a $24,965 GT with a $2,695 35th anniversary package that includes anniversary logos and script on any item that doesn’t move.
Options included 4-speed automatic at $815; traction control at $230; sound-system upgrade at $395; convenience group (power driver’s seat, speed control, rear window defroster) at $550; and smoker’s package (ashtray instead of another cupholder) at $15. With a $525 freight charge, the sticker topped $30,000.
If you can’t afford $30,000, call 877-35-YEARS (877-359-3277) for information about less-expensive anniversary collectibles, from trading cards to water colors to table games.
