1964 ½ Ford Mustang

On April 17, 1964, the first Ford Mustang was unveiled at the World Exhibition of New York and sported a base price of $2,360.00. That is the day that America fell in love with an American legend.

There were only two models offered in that first year, the convertible, and the coupe. The fastback did not make its appearance until the 1965 model year. Both models of the 64 ½ sported a long hood and shortened rear deck. Both had wrap around chrome bumpers, full wheel covers, and a chrome grill that featured that famous running horse. Because it was made before September 1964, it is considered to be a 1964 ½, so the first Mustangs are called 64 ½.

In an effort to reduce production costs of the early mustangs, many of its components, such as the drive train, were copied from the Falcon. The Falcon lent some of its sporty interior ideas to the new Mustang as well. A horizontal speed-meter, two seats in front and a small rear seat as well as a deep shaped steering wheel gave it a super sporty, fun look.

In those early days, the buyer would sleep in his car until his check had cleared as insurance against the car being sold to anyone else. And the love affair with this great little car has not wavered. Americans love their Mustangs!