Ford Mustang Pony Interior and Other Special Options

The Ford Mustang Pony Interior is a highly regarded prize among collectors. The seat covers with the Ford Mustang emblem that featured a galloping pony are well known and often thought to be a separate option. In fact, the pony interior was part of the interior décor group first offered in 1965 and featured, of course, the seat covers that had the running horses across the back, but there were other features that were offered.

This option had special door panes for the interior. They had integral armrests and pistol grip door handles as well as a five-gauge instrument panel. In addition, a wood grain steering wheel and wood grain appliqués appeared on the instrument cluster and glove box. It could also be incorporated on the center console as an optional item in the package.

In 1968, Ford dealers offered Mustang models that were region specific. Two of the more famous models that were offered are the California Special and the High Country Special.

The California Ford Dealers began to market the California Special in 1968. The California Special Mustang was a limited edition Mustang that was factory built. Also known as the GT/CS, the California Special began its 5.5-month production in mid February 1968 and ended in early August 1968.

The anticipated production run of the California Special was 5,000, however, there were only 4,118 California Special Mustangs that were actually made. This number included another specialty limited edition Mustang, the High Country Special ‘68. Of the 4,118 cars that were made of the California Special, 251 of those cars were actually the High Country Special Mustang.

The California Special was unveiled on February 15, 1968 at a Ford dealer party at LA’s Century Plaza Hotel. The response was overwhelming. The wholesale record was broken with 1,000 California Special Mustang cars ordered. All of the cars that they had on hand were sold. On February 20, 1968, the California Special was unveiled to the world.

The early High Country Special Mustang offered three colors only:  Columbine Blue, Aspen Gold and Timberline Green and allowed any body style. It also sported a brass shield emblem that was found on the front fenders. Later the High Country Special Mustang and the California Special Mustang evolved somewhat. Coups were the only body styles that were used for both the Specials.

There were no fastbacks of convertibles used. These specials also allowed any of the regular Mustang engine, option and color that was available. There were several differences such as fiberglass side scoops, unique body striping, fog lights, and 1965 Thunderbird taillights. They were only built at the San Jose plant.

There were many specials and unique options that Ford offered on their Mustangs. There is any number of interesting additions that buyers of the early Mustangs could choose for their vehicles. Today, these special and sometimes rare options can cause quite a stir in the Mustang enthusiast world. They are coveted by collectors and admired by fans, but no matter who is drawn to these special cars, one thing is for certain:  You won’t find anything as hot as a Mustang.