Classic Mustangs, especially the 1965 and 1966 models, hold a special place in automotive history. Enthusiasts and restorers are constantly on the hunt for these iconic vehicles, whether to bring them back to their former glory or to source essential components for other projects. A recent forum post highlighted a 1965 Mustang coupe, raising questions about its value and potential. Let’s delve into the details of this find and explore whether a ’65 coupe, particularly a 6-cylinder model, could be a valuable source of parts or a worthwhile project in itself.
The car in question is a 1965 Mustang coupe, described as being in “nice condition” and sporting a distinctive minty green exterior with a red interior. Located in Northern California, this base model lacks a radio and is powered by a 200 cubic inch inline-six engine, paired with an automatic transmission – a conversion from its original manual configuration. The odometer reads around 72,000 miles, though the poster acknowledges the possibility of it being 172,000. The asking price is $10,500.
Several observations were made during a brief test drive. The steering was noted as being very loose, characteristic of older Mustangs. Braking performance was described as “laughably bad,” which could be attributed to the factory drum brakes or potential underlying issues. The 120 horsepower engine, while making noise, was reported as lacking in performance. The red interior with a bench seat was also mentioned, noting limited legroom for taller individuals.
The crucial question raised is whether $10,500 is a fair price for this particular 1965 Mustang coupe. The original poster’s coworker believes the car could fetch significantly more on the open market, possibly exceeding $15,000. While fastbacks and convertibles typically command higher prices, and V8 models are more sought after, the condition of this coupe is cited as “nice,” and the owner has receipts for $8,500 in work done, albeit primarily in 1999 and 2014, suggesting periods of inactivity.
A friend, described as a car collector and Mustang owner, suggested that the 200 cubic inch engine is “pretty lousy” and proposed a V8 swap and disc brake conversion to create a restomod cruiser. This brings up an important point: is this 1965 Mustang coupe better suited as a parts car or as the foundation for a restomod project?
The Value Proposition for Parts
For someone specifically in the market for “65 Mustang Parts Car” components, a coupe like this could present several advantages:
- Body Panels: If the body is indeed in “very nice” condition, as described, valuable panels such as doors, fenders, hood, trunk lid, and quarter panels could be salvaged. These are often in demand for restoration projects, especially if free from rust and major damage.
- Interior Trim: A red interior, if well-preserved, can be a sought-after feature. Items like the dashboard, seats (even the bench seat), interior door panels, and trim pieces could be valuable, depending on their condition and originality.
- Glass: Windshields, side glass, and rear glass for a 1965 Mustang are essential parts that can be reused if intact.
- Mechanical Components: While the 200ci engine and automatic transmission might not be highly desirable for performance builds, certain components like the rear end, suspension parts, and even the engine block and transmission case could be useful for specific projects or as cores for rebuilding.
- Wiring Harness and Electrical Components: Original wiring harnesses and electrical parts, if in good condition, can be valuable for maintaining the authenticity of a restoration.
Considerations as a Parts Car
However, before considering this 1965 Mustang coupe solely as a “65 mustang parts car,” several factors need to be weighed:
- Price vs. Parts Value: At $10,500, the initial investment is significant. A thorough assessment of the car’s parts value is crucial. Would the sum of its valuable parts exceed this price? This requires a detailed inventory and understanding of current market prices for 1965 Mustang components.
- Labor and Time: Dismantling a car for parts is labor-intensive and time-consuming. The cost of labor, storage space for parts, and the time involved in selling individual components need to be factored in.
- Condition of Parts: While described as “nice condition,” a detailed inspection is necessary to verify the actual condition of all potential parts. Rust, damage, and wear can significantly reduce the value of components.
- Demand for 6-Cylinder Parts: Parts from a 6-cylinder Mustang might have a narrower market compared to those from V8 models. However, base model parts are still essential for restoring similar coupes.
Restomod Potential and Parts Sourcing
The suggestion of a V8 swap and disc brake conversion highlights another perspective: using this 1965 Mustang coupe as a starting point for a restomod project. In this scenario, the car itself becomes more than just a “65 mustang parts car” – it transforms into the foundation for a customized classic.
If pursuing a restomod, sourcing “65 mustang parts car” components becomes relevant in a different way. The existing coupe could contribute some parts to the project, while other, often performance-oriented, parts would need to be sourced. This might involve:
- Selling Unwanted Parts: The 6-cylinder engine, automatic transmission, and drum brake components could be sold to offset the cost of V8 and disc brake upgrades.
- Sourcing V8 and Performance Parts: The restomod project would require acquiring a V8 engine, transmission, disc brake conversion kit, performance suspension components, and potentially upgraded interior and exterior trim.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective
The 1965 Mustang coupe in question presents an interesting proposition. While the $10,500 asking price might seem high for a 6-cylinder coupe needing brake work and with loose steering, its “nice condition” and potential parts value should not be dismissed.
For someone specifically looking for “65 mustang parts car” components, a careful evaluation is necessary. A detailed inspection to assess the condition of valuable parts, a realistic estimate of dismantling and selling efforts, and a comparison of the asking price to the potential return on parts are crucial steps.
Alternatively, for an enthusiast seeking a solid base for a restomod project, this 1965 Mustang coupe could be a viable starting point. The existing car could contribute some parts, while the restomod vision would involve sourcing both performance upgrades and potentially other “65 mustang parts car” components to complete the build.
Ultimately, whether this 1965 Mustang coupe is a “screaming deal” or not depends on the buyer’s specific needs and intentions. A thorough assessment, considering both its potential as a parts source and as a project car, is essential before making a decision.
