1964½–1973 Ford Mustang | The First Generation (Classic Mustang, Pony Car)

Overview

The first-generation Ford Mustang, produced from 1964½ to 1973, is the car that launched the pony car segment and became an American icon. Known for its affordable price, endless options, and classic styling, this Mustang is beloved by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.

Generation Details

  • Years Produced: 1964½–1973
  • Code Names/Nicknames: Classic Mustang, Pony Car, S-code, Boss, Mach 1
  • Platform: Ford Falcon-based (1964½–1966), revised for big-blocks (1967+)

Quick Reference Chart: First Generation Mustang

Model YearsBody StylesEngine Options (hp)Transmission OptionsNotable Trims/PackagesOil Capacity (qt)Trans Fluid (qt)Coolant (qt)Rear Axle (qt)
1964½–1966Coupe, Convertible, Fastback170 I6 (101), 260 V8 (164), 289 V8 (210/271)3-spd, 4-spd, 3-spd autoGT, Pony Interior, Rally-Pac4–52.5–7 (auto)13–152.0
1967–1968Coupe, Convertible, Fastback200 I6, 289 V8, 302 V8, 390 V8, 428 V83-spd, 4-spd, 3-spd autoGT, California Special, Shelby52.5–10 (auto)15–172.0
1969–1970Coupe, Convertible, Fastback250 I6, 302 V8, 351 V8, 390 V8, 428/429 V83-spd, 4-spd, 3-spd autoMach 1, Boss 302/429, Shelby52.5–10 (auto)15–172.0
1971–1973Coupe, Convertible, Fastback250 I6, 302 V8, 351 V8, 429 V83-spd, 4-spd, 3-spd autoMach 1, Grande, Boss 35152.5–10 (auto)172.0

Unique Features & Options

Body Styles

  • Coupe, Convertible, Fastback (2+2)
  • 1965: Fastback introduced
  • 1973: Last year for convertible until 1983

Engine & Performance

  • 1964½: Only year with generator instead of alternator
  • 1967: First year for big-block V8s
  • 1969: Boss 302/429, Mach 1, Shelby GT350/GT500

Notable Packages

  • GT Equipment Package (fog lights, disc brakes)
  • California Special (GT/CS, 1968)
  • High Country Special (Colorado, 1966–68)
  • Shelby (1965–1970)

Pop Culture & Movies

  • Goldfinger (1964): Mustang convertible
  • Bullitt (1968): Steve McQueen’s Highland Green GT Fastback
  • Diamonds Are Forever (1971): Red Mach 1

Rare & Fun Facts

  • 1965: First car to win Tiffany Gold Medal for design
  • 1968: California Special only sold in California
  • 1969: Boss 429 engine hand-built by Kar Kraft

Maintenance & Fluids Chart

Engine/TransOil Capacity (qt)Trans Fluid (qt)Coolant (qt)Rear Axle (qt)Spark Plug Gap (in)
170/200 I64.02.5 (3-spd)132.00.034–0.038
260/289/302 V85.02.5 (4-spd)152.00.034–0.038
390/428/429 V85.02.5 (4-spd)172.00.034–0.038
C4/FMX Auto7–10 (total)

Why the First Generation Mustang Still Matters

The first-generation Mustang is more than a car—it’s a cultural icon. Its blend of style, performance, and affordability made it a hit in movies, music, and motorsports. Whether you’re restoring a classic or just a fan, this Mustang’s legacy is unmatched.

Download the 1964½–1973 Mustang Workshop Manual

Get expert guidance, wiring diagrams, and rare factory specs. Perfect for restoration, maintenance, and keeping your classic Mustang on the road.

Model Year Breakdown

🚘 1964½ Mustang
  • Models: Coupe, Convertible.

  • Engines: 170ci I6, 260ci V8, 289ci V8.

  • Highlights: Honeycomb grille with a running horse emblem; no “Pony” interior yet.

  • Notes: Known as “1964½” due to mid-year release. Early production differences from 1965.

🚘 1965 Mustang
  • New Fastback body style introduced.

  • “Pony Interior” debuted with galloping horse seat inserts.

  • GT Package added fog lamps, dual exhaust, disc brakes.

  • Shelby GT350 performance version released.

🚘 1966 Mustang
  • Refined styling: grille changes, side scoop updates.

  • New interior and trim options.

  • Sales peaked at over 607,000 units.

🚘 1967 Mustang
  • First major redesign: longer and wider body.

  • Space added to accommodate big-block V8s.

  • New engines: 390ci V8.

  • More aggressive front end and revised suspension.

🚘 1968 Mustang
  • Side marker lights added (federal safety).

  • Engine choices expanded: 428 Cobra Jet added mid-year.

  • Featured in the movie “Bullitt” with Steve McQueen.

🚘 1969 Mustang
  • Longer, lower, meaner look.

  • New models: Mach 1, Boss 302, Boss 429.

  • Quad headlamps, scoops, spoilers.

  • High-performance V8s and racing influence.

🚘 1970 Mustang
  • Return to dual headlamps (in grille).

  • Slight design revisions.

  • Boss models continued.

  • Last year for the 390 V8.

🚘 1971 Mustang
  • Major redesign: larger, heavier.

  • Available with big engines: 429 Super Cobra Jet.

  • Introduced luxury-oriented Grande model.

🚘 1972 Mustang
  • Minimal visual changes.

  • Engine lineup adjusted due to emissions regulations.

  • Boss 351 replaced by lower-powered models.

1st Generation (1964½–1973)

The original pony car that redefined American performance. With bold design, a wide range of V8 engines, and iconic trims like the Mach 1 and Boss 302, this generation launched the Mustang legend and remains a symbol of classic muscle today.

🚘 1964½ Mustang

🚘 1964 Mustang

🚘 1965 Mustang

🚘 1966 Mustang

🚘 1967 Mustang

🚘 1968 Mustang

🚘 1969 Mustang

🚘 1970 Mustang

🚘 1971 Mustang

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