1964 1/2 Ford Mustang Convertible
Factory original / Correct Guardsman Blue (1964 1/2 Only) / White & Blue Pony Interior / White Power Top
Beautiful Cosmetic & Mechanical Restoration of a Solid, Original California Car
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NOTE: Our listings are rather lengthy. They not only describe this particular car but also some history of the make/model, considerations in buying a classic car and facts about our firm. However, we continually hear from out-of-state / out-of- country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read the full listing, please scan the “Details” section (below) along with viewing the Photographs at the bottom. If you’d prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we’ll gladly discuss the Mustang and answer any questions over the telephone, including our “Buy it Now” policy. Yes, the Mustang can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction.
INTRODUCTION
Considering the high quality of this particular Mustang, the car is being offered at a realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information and history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for 24+ years and enjoys an excellent national / international relationship with over 920 positive eBay feedback responses.
Please keep in mind that we will gladly…
- Answer any questions over the telephone and take the time to guide prospective customers through the buying process (925-846-1451).
- Assist with locating a quality, suitable transporter at very competitive prices.
- Provide proof that we are licensed, bonded (for the financial transaction), fully insured, and operate from an established showroom environment.
- Provide feedback from previous buyers, and specific references for vehicle purchases in your area (we also ask that you view our detailed eBay feedback by clicking on the number to the right of the eBay user name)
- Offer additional information including specific photographs or clarification of any part of our description of the vehicle
Thank you again, please let me know if I can be of assistance.
Happy “eBaying”!
Paul R. Wankle, Pres.
Classic Cars Ltd.
Pleasanton, CA
925-846-1451
This 1964 ½ Mustangs were built between March – August of 1964 with this example being produced in Dearborn on July 1, 1964. Ordered by a San Francisco dealer and is supported by a #72 DSO (District Sales Office) code on the trim tag, the car retains the original VIN stamping in the left had front fender and the correct, factory riveted left side door jamb trim tag.
As a 1964 ½, early production car, the Mustang has some unique characteristics found only on the “64 ½.” Specifically, the car retains the following supporting it being a 64 ½:
– Stiffening skirts/flanges on the edges of the hood
– Headlight extensions have corresponding bevels to the hood “skirts
– The Mustang word on front fenders is 4-3/8″, later lengthened to 5.0.” While some of the interior and engine features have been updated and improved, the production date, VIN#, and other appointments exist to confirm the car as a rare, 1964 ½ .
The Mustangs original VIN & Trim Tag decode as follows:
VIN# (Warranty Number) DECODING:
5FD8F18540
5 = 1965 (or 1964 ½)
F = Mfg. Dearborn MI
F = 260 cid V8
Unit # = 18,540 (One of only 28,833 ’64 ½ Mustangs produced)
TRIM TAG DECODING
76A = Convertible, Standard Interior (when produced)
F = Color / Guardsman Blue
82 = Trim / Blue Crinkle Vinyl
72 = District Sales Office (DSO) / San Jose
1 = 3-Speed Manual
While this Mustang retains a largely stock appearance with the exception of upgraded polished American Racing wheels, this example has benefited from significant upgrades to improve its reliability, appearance, comfort, and safety. Originally manufactured with a 260 cid V8 engine, the Mustang is fitted with a larger displacement 302 cid engine (1968), matching automatic transmission, and considerable cosmetic and mechanical improvements.
For the past ~10 years, the car was owned by a Bay area executive who invested ~$40,000.00 (receipts for $31K+included) with a “no expense spared philosophy” to make the Mustang a reliable, excellent running/driving example while retaining the cars original charm.
The Mustang is finished in its correct, factory issued Guardsman Blue, a rare and desirable color produced only on the 1964 ½ Mustang. The car was manufactured with blue vinyl interior but has been upgraded including striking white and blue Pony seats, and an added console. The interior restoration was comprehensive and completed by professionals at a cost of ~$7000.00 including the following:
– New Pony interior front and back
– Color coordinated blue seat belts front & rear
– New “wood” steering wheel with functional horn
– GT dash with instrumentation & woodgrain
– Install woodgrain center console
– Wood grain glove box door
– New seat belts front & rear
– All new carpet covered with Mustang logo mats
– Mustang GT dash & instruments (new lenses)
– Complete repaint of interior panels
– Reupholster dash, new sun visors, glove box door, etc.
– All new light, wiper, & other switches
– New light blue wind lace and other trim
– AM/FM in-dash radio with Cassette!
– Install new front kick panels with built in speakers / in-dash stereo in stock opening
– New door sills including lighted Mustang logos in sill plates
– New convertible boot cover that fits properly
Mechanically, the car is very strong 302 cid V8 mated to a C4 Ford transmission. The engine compartment is detailed with a number of performance enhancing additions and dress-up items including chrome valve covers, “flamethrower” coil, chrome air cleaner, and chrome dipstick.
When the mechanical restoration was completed by the well know Mustang Ranch <20K miles ago (and updated <750 miles ago), extensive changes were made to enhance performance and drivability. While the details of the comprehensive work are too lengthy to list item by item, a summary is as follows and details are documented on provided receipts.
– Remove engine & transmission, complete tear down & reseal
– Add new Holley 4bbl carb / Edelbrock manifold (fitted with a chrome air cleaner and “289” logo)
– Install complete dual exhaust system with 2 ¼ pipe and cross over
– Dual exhaust manifolds (true dual exhaust set-up), new Turbo mufflers & tips
– Complete rebuild of front suspension with all new tie rod end, bearings, control arms, brake drums (new), strut rod bushings, hoses, etc. etc.
– Conversion to front disc brakes
– Service differential, new rear braking system leaf springs, shocks
– Complete electrical system rebuild including adding Petronix, new 100 amp 1-wire alternator, distributor, battery cables, & tune-up components
– Install and sort new windshield wiper unit and correct / period wiper arms/blades
– New V-belts
– New heater core, heater rebuild kit, hoses,
– Front end alignment
Approximately 750 miles ago, the Mustang received a complete 27 point inspection along with the following:
– New battery
– Full oil service with Brad Penn oil 30W, filter, etc.
– Complete coolant flush with new coolant
– Inspect and adjust braking system
– Replace upper radiator hose & a vacuum hose
– New thermostat & gasket
While this only represents a summary, to say the mechanical work was extensive is an understatement. Unlike many cars that reportedly have had a mechanical “restoration”, this car has received a complete “cost no object” mechanical evaluation receiving virtually everything that it needed to make it a reliable and usable car while retaining the classic appearance of an early Mustang convertible.
The exterior retains a largely original appearance with the exception of the polished American Racing 5-spoke wheels and, to the astute observer, dual exhaust. Much of the trim was replaced during the restoration and the brightwork is in lovely condition. The factory correct ’64.5 hood remains in place and closes properly with good fit. Panel gaps are quite good all-around including the doors, and trunk that lock. The car reportedly received one respray in the factory Guardsman blue, a lovely shade of medium blue metallic offered only on the 1964 ½ Mustang. Paint is high gloss and the body is straight and free from damage. There is no indication of partial repainting and the paint is uniform and consistent.
The interior is in excellent condition having been totally and professionally restored. It remains in virtually stock configuration with the non-factory Pony seats, upgraded “wood” steering wheel, and an aftermarket but improved AM/FM radio in the stock dash opening. Seat belts in color coordinated blue are fitted to the front and rear seats for added safety. The passenger seat, fixed in the 64 ½ is now adjustable as was the case in 1965 and later cars.
The convertible power top is operated from a switch on the dash, works perfectly and fits well. It is free from any damage and has a totally clear rear window that zips out, a nice feature to both save the window and allow for additional ventilation. All windows are excellent and many of the components were replaced with new parts at the time of the interior restoration.
As a result of the significant mechanical repairs, the car runs and drives very well. It starts immediately whether cold or warm, has excellent power, shifts crisply as a result of an added shift kit and the transmission does not slip of make any noise. The power steering makes the car easy to drive and the upgraded front disc brakes and complete brake system restoration results in even and predictable braking. The e-brake is functional.
The electrical system is operational and the added gauges display proper readings including oi pressure, charging system, temperature, and fuel. Lights, turn signal brakes lights and the radio work as designed. The odometer is also operational and, as a result of the car being over 55 years old we must represent the car as TMU (Total Miles Unknown). However, virtually every component on the car has been restored, replaced, or upgraded.
We have seen more Mustang’s in our 25+ years than we can count and this example is one of the nicest but, most attractive and usable Mustang convertibles that we have had the pleasure of owning. Take a close look at the others that are available…the differences are significant.
HISTORY OF THE FIRST GENERATION FORD MUSTANG
The first-generation Ford Mustang was manufactured by the Ford Motor Company from April 1964 until 1973. The introduction of the Mustang created a new class of automobile known as the pony car. The Mustang’s styling, with its long hood and short deck, proved wildly popular and inspired a host of imitators.
Lee Iacocca’s assistant general manager and chief engineer, Donald Frey, was the head engineer for the Mustang project – supervising the development of the Mustang in a record 18 months from September 1962 to March 1964 – while Iacocca himself championed the project as Ford Division general manager.
It was initially introduced in 1964 as a hardtop and convertible with a fastback version put on sale the following year. At the time of its introduction, the Mustang was slotted into a compact car segment. To decrease development costs, the Mustang used chassis, suspension, and drive-train components derived from the Ford Falcon and Fairlane.
Since it was introduced five months before the normal start of the 1965 production year and manufactured alongside 1964 Ford Falcons and 1964 Mercury Comets, the earliest Mustangs are widely referred to as the 1964½ model but are registered as 1965’s. Several changes to the Mustang occurred at the start of the normal 1965 model year production, five months after its introduction. These cars are known as “late 65’s”, and were built after factory retooling in August 1964. The DC electrical generator was replaced by a new AC alternator on all Fords. The Mustang GT version was introduced as the “GT Equipment Package” and included a V8 engine (mostly 289 cu. in.), grille-mounted fog lamps, rocker panel stripes, and disc brakes. In the interior the GT option added a different instrument panel that included a speedometer, fuel gauge, temp gauge, oil pressure gauge and ammeter in five round dials (without numbers).
The standard interior features of the 1965 Mustang included adjustable driver and passenger bucket seats, an AM radio, and a floor mounted shifter in a variety of color options. The Interior Decor Group was popularly known as “Pony Interior” due to the addition of embossed running ponies on the seat fronts, and also included integral armrests, wood-grain appliqué accents, and a round gauge cluster that would replace the standard Falcon instrumentation. Also available were sun visors, a (mechanical) remote-operated mirror, a floor console, and a bench seat. .
PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE – THINGS TO CONSIDER
As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller’s background for any collector car being sold over the Internet. It is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to:
– How long have they been in business?
– How much experience do they have with collector cars?
– How many positive collector car vehicle sales have they completed (positive eBay feedback)?
– How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle?
– Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply “glamour shots” taken from a distance?
– Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction?
– What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license?
– Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances?
– Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation?
– Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales?
ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD.
– Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 24 years. We operate a small “brick & mortar”, indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles.
– The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from “distressed” sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair.
We have sold hundreds of unique, classic and collectible vehicles and regularly deal with buyers that have not had the experience of purchasing a large (both physically and monetarily) item on eBay, or through an Internet source. Our eBay feedback is 100% positive on all vehicle sales from customers around the globe and is a reflection of our commitment to accurate, complete, and thorough vehicle descriptions.
– We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping.
– Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 920 positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World.
– We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World.
– Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions
– We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area.
MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION
– As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet.
– In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, a documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser’s responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: If the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license/registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law.
– We encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail. Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you.
– We encourage inspections of this Mustang by serious, qualified individuals or professional inspectors. Please call at 925-846-1451 to arrange a convenient time.
– As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd.
– Minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration, or even a relatively new, used “pre-owned” vehicle. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the “realities” of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / “specialty” car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn’t trade them for anything!!
– The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car’s owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of “numbers” and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering.
Thank you,
Classic Cars Ltd.
925-846-1451