Vehicle Description
The 1968 Mustang California Special is a one-year only package that
is starting to come into its own as one of the rarest and sportiest
first-gen pony cars around. With all of the factory Shelby touches,
low production numbers, correct 289 V8, and solid restoration
investment, this coupe would still be attractive at double the
price.
The Shelby-like appearance of the California Special is no
accident. This was based on supercharged GT500 prototype coupe that
didn't see the light of day. That didn't stop California's Ford
dealers for asking for a special package to heat up sales. In fact,
having it in Candyapple Red is the exact way you want this because
the original prototype that inspired it was this color, too! The
reason why the paint looks so spectacular today is it is a
professional respray of the factory-correct color. So the modern
clearcoat really helps it pop in the sunshine. All the correct
California Special elements are still present, including the
blacked-out grille, Lucas fog lamps, hood locks, Shelby-style rear
scoops, pop off gas cap, and fiberglass tail with built-in spoiler.
Correct GT/CS stripes run down its flanks, and the taillights are
1965 Thunderbird units - it's truly distinctive from every angle.
So this is a rare (less than 3,900 CS coupes were produced) package
that will have you talking at all the car shows the moment you
point out the genuine "California Special" badge on the rear
fenders.
The code 2D red interior is another great mark of distinction. But
the real reason why all of this looks so good is the carpets,
headliner, door panels, and other elements that are not supposed to
last a half-century have been replaced with correct new components.
You also get a few handy upgrades like the cup holder center
console, and a retro-style AM/FM stereo that has a correct
knob-style appearance but incorporates modern pieces like a digital
tuner and aux input. The driver gets the great round gauge package
that came on later versions of the first-gen Mustangs, and ahead of
that is a Deluxe steering wheel with a stylized wood appearance in
the center.
This is an original C-code car, and so you'll be happy to lift the
hood and see the 289 cubic-inch V8 in the engine bay. It has a bold
presentation with its correct blue block, "Powered by Ford" valve
covers, and correct air topper. Even the details are right like the
Ford hoses and clamps, because you make that kind of investment in
a special Mustang like this one. In fact, this coupe has less than
400 miles on it since restoration. So it reliably fires up, and
that makes you want to take this for a cruise at any time. Plus,
the three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and modern
Hankook tires on classic GT wheels make the driving experience an
easy one.
This is an exceptionally rare California Special, and to help you
tell its story, this coupe comes with a Marti Report. With all of
these features, we're not sure if you should want this Mustang for
a great driver, cherished classic, or a great investment. All we
know is at this price, it will be going fast. Call today!!!
