Lee Iacocca’s Mustang II - the Second-Generation Mustang

1974 saw the introduction of the Ford Mustang II, a lean, mean more fuel-efficient model of automobile that won Ford honors as Motor Trend magazine’s Car of the Year. Produced by the Ford Motor Company, the Mustang was inspired by the Ford Falcon compact which was made by Ford from 1960 through 1970 and then discontinued. Called the second-generation Mustang, it maintained the classic styling that is the trademark of the Ford Mustang model of automobile.

Going back in time, Ford recreated a Mustang similar to its 1964 predecessor in size, shape, and styling. Lee Iacocca, then CEO of Ford Motor Company was behind the rise of the new Mustang, and while the car looked similar, it also had a number of features. Iacocca insisted on the highest in standards for his new car, but the 1974 Mustang II was smaller than the original and because of the size differential, it never received the respect it deserved.

Starting in 1974, the car industry underwent a massive overhaul to come into compliance with new federal emission and safety regulations. One of the major changes in the Ford car was the disappearance of the very popular V8 engine. This would prove to be a frustrating and costly mistake that caused a major hassle starting the next year.