Ford Mustang History

50 Years of Ford Mustang

Ford has many vehicles that are considered institutions but none are so ingrained into the psyche of car enthusiasts as the Ford Mustang. For over 50 years the Mustang has evolved and has been one of the premiere and most loved sports cars ever created.

Back in the Day…

The project start in 1961 with a concept coming in 1962. It was originally a two-seater, then became a four-seater, and was released early on April 17th 1964. This design came following an increased demand for sports cars but also an acceptance by the public of sports cars as family cars. Much of the Mustangs design and component were based on the very successful Ford Falcon. The frame was designed to carry all the mechanical elements on the underside and all the body components on top. When the vehicle was designed and brought to market it was a big was a big improved on the T-Bird. With more room for two more passengers, a better designed interior, more comfort and a smaller engine that ran on regular fuel rather than premium.

Dubbed "the best thing that ever came out of Dearborn", the Mustang's design and production took place in Dearborn, Michigan and once the car was finally released to the public in 1965 it quickly became Ford's most successful release. The Mustang created the "pony car" segment of American muscle cars. These cars were affordable sporty vehicles with long hoods and short rear decks. For its first production model available to the public the Mustang cost $2,368 US. First generation Mustangs are considered to be 1965-1973 and by the end of this generation the car had a downfall in popularity because it became "fat and lazy" growing in size but not in power.

Generation Leap

The second generation came in 1974 was was sleeker, faster and smaller with a design based on the Ford Maverick. It was offered as a coupe, hatchback and had a luxury version in the Ghia. This generation gave the car a needed boost and reestablished it in the market place. That said it was short lived and the 2nd generation ended in 1979 giving way to the longest period for the Mustang.

A third generation debuted in 1979 and had two different front end styles throughout its cycle. From 1979 to 1986 offered an angled rear front clip with a distinct four headlights set up (known by enthusiasts as "Four Eyes"). Moving forward, from 1987 to 1993, the forward clip had a rounded shape dubbed the "aero" style with flush composite headlamps. This generation had success but was relegated to a level below the higher end Porsche sports cars. Issues with steering and inadequate rear suspension. That said, no other vehicle could compete with the Mustang's power to weight ration during this period.

The Last 25 Years

In November 1993 Ford introduced their completely redesigned fourth generation of the flagship Mustang which was offered with a manual or electronically controlled four-speed transmission. A longer bulkier body with more curves and some added in design cues which made a nod to the earlier mustangs. This era offered a powerful Mustang, but one that was much more buxom than the sleek earlier models. Deemed a very capable and fun street driving car, unfortunately this generation was out classed speed and power wise by other cars in its class like the z28.

For 2004-2005 the Ford company completely redesigned the Mustang and paid homage to the fastbacks of the late 1960s. Design was a more elongated version of the classics from the 1960s. Low to the ground, aggressive and loud were key markers for this generation and although it did not last long, this design year is a favorite among enthusiasts as the callback cues to former years of glory added nostalgia into the mix. These models were no slouches power wise with most models landing between 230hp-310hp.

The Mustang Today

Currently, the Mustang is seeing a rebirth. Changes for this generation include a widened body (by 1.5 inches), a lower body (1.4 inches), a new trapezoidal grille, and a host of new colors. Passenger volume was increased to 84.5 cubic feet, and three engine options are available (2.3 L EcoBoost 310 hp four-cylinder, a 3.7 L 300 hp V6 or 5.0 L Coyote 435 hp V8). Unfortunately 2015 was a bittersweet year for Ford in which the Mustang earned a 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (for front, side, and rollover crash protection). But this year also saw Ford have to recall a huge number of its Mustang vehicles due to issues at the production plant.

Although Ford saw its strongest sales in the 65' 66' model years, the Mustang has been a steady seller since it's inception. It has grown, evolved, had ups and downs but there is no disputing that the Mustang is one of the most storied cars of all time. Any vehicle that can reinvent itself as many times as the Mustang has deserves respect. To date the Mustang has sold approximately 9.1 million cars and it doesn't look like the model has any signs of stopping its growth or evolution. Come see new and old Mustangs at Maclin Ford today!!! We are located at 135 Glendeer Cir SE, Calgary, Alberta. Call 403-252-0101 to set up an appointment.