As a Camaro connoisseur and an automotive writer, sometimes I have to mention the Ford Mustang. You can’t argue with sales numbers and dealer orders, so Ford announced earlier today that the 10 Millionth Mustang has galloped off the assembly line in Flat Rock Michigan. Ford beat Chevrolet to market by 2 years, and the rest is history.
Production of the 1965 Mustang began early in 1964, in order to be ready for the World’s Fair. The cars were hidden behind lock and key at dealers across the country. Gail Wise purchased #001, and she was a guest of honor at this event. The car is one of the main exhibits at the Henry Ford Museum, so it was nice to see her back behind the wheel. When the car was shown the world it caused a sensation when dealers unveiled them. Aimed at a younger demographic, Ford invented a market that left other manufacturers scratching their heads.
The press release says car # 10,000.000 is a Wimbledon White GT convertible, the same color combination as VIN 001. Despite being 54 years apart, both cars are V8 powered with manual transmissions. The first Mustang only offered 164 horsepower, but the latest Mustang GT arrives with 460, and the Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual shifts much smoother than the original cast iron 3-speed stick. Ford invited all Mustangs home to Dearborn, where the show was overflown by a P-51 Mustang, the car’s namesake. Then they traveled in a parade to the Flat Rock Assembly Plant to see the latest cars leave the plant.
Ford was first to market with overhead cams in the 427 “cammer” engine. The 1999 Mustang was the first Pony Car with independent rear suspension. Mustang was also first to have factory turbocharged power in the 80’s SVO, and the first supercharged V8 in the 2003 SVT Cobra. It also introduced America to flat-plane V8 engines in the latest Shelby GT350.
Finally, Ford has always priced the Mustang under the Camaro, at least in base model trim. If you want the ultimate, the 2019 Mustang Bullitt offers 480 horsepower in an unassuming green body. Click the link below to find your Mustang, and congratulations to Ford for 54 years of strong sales. Tell us your favorite Mustang moment and stay with us for all your Ford updates.
[button color=”red” text=”white” url=”http://bit.ly/2JNE9XE” window=”_blank”]Find Your Mustang Here[/button]
