**THIS VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY SELLING ON A BRING-A-TRAILER ONLINE AUCTION. THE AUCTION ENDS ON FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 5TH @ 2:21PM EST. IF YOU'RE INTERESTED IN PURCHASING PLEASE REGISTER DIRECTLY WITH BRING-A-TRAILER TO BID. IT'S A QUICK AND SIMPLE PROCESS. PLEASE CALL WITH ANY QUESTIONS.**
Auction link: https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1966-ford-mustang-889
The 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible is one of the most iconic and collectible classic cars ever built, and this particular example is truly a show-stopper. This spectacular Raven Black 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible with factory air conditioning has been restored to the highest standards and is known as one of the finest ’66 Mustang convertibles on the show circuit. With its stunning presentation, long-term ownership history, concours awards, and rare options, this Mustang is a shining example of why the first-generation Mustang remains a cultural phenomenon and a highly desirable collector car.
The 1966 Ford Mustang was the final evolution of the Mustang’s original first-generation design, building on the massive success of the 1964½ and 1965 models. Ford sold over 600,000 Mustangs in 1966 alone, cementing its place as one of America’s most popular pony cars. This example, built on April 29, 1966 in Dearborn, Michigan, left the factory as a Raven Black Mustang Convertible with black interior, powered by the C-code 289 V8 paired to a C4 automatic transmission and a 2.80 rear axle. The VIN and Data Plate verify its authenticity.
Factory equipment includes a white power convertible top, power steering, power brakes, tinted windshield, Rally-Pac clock and tachometer, deluxe seat belt lights, Fordaire factory air conditioning with heater, console with integrated air conditioner controls, AM-FM radio, styled steel wheels, and a luggage rack. Dealer-installed options make this Mustang even more unique, with GT-style fog lights, dual mirrors, door edge guards, a vanity mirror, Rotunda compass, glove box light, trunk release, chrome engine dress-up kit, dual exhaust, and even a Mustang-embossed tissue dispenser.
The ownership history is equally impressive. In August 1979, the car was purchased by Peter Vander Veen of Grand Rapids, Michigan, who owned it for 42 years. In 1997, he commissioned a full, professional, bare-metal restoration by Van Cura’s Classic Restorations, one of the premier shops in Michigan, while the engine was rebuilt by CD’s Engine Service. Completed in 1999, Peter spent the next 17 years refining and improving the Mustang down to the smallest details. He proudly showed it at Mustang Club of America events in the Concours Trailered and Driven Class and at the Lake Bluff Concours, where it earned numerous awards. In 2023, it achieved a prestigious award at the MCA Nationals in Indianapolis, further validating its world-class quality.
The exterior is breathtaking. The body was stripped to bare metal, straightened, and refinished in its original Raven Black, a color that gives the car an elegant, tuxedo-like presence. The deep gloss paint, polished chrome, detailed trim, and new white convertible power top make it stand out at any event. The car sits on 14-inch polished mag wheels with red Mustang center caps, wrapped in Hankook Optimo white sidewall tires, giving it the perfect period-correct stance.
The interior is equally impressive, restored to its original black finish with a factory console, Rally-Pac, and working air conditioning. Everything from the seats, dash, gauges, controls, and carpeting has been either restored or replaced, maintaining a factory-correct appearance with concours quality. The trunk compartment is restored and equipped with a mat, full-size spare, and jack tools.
Under the hood, the engine bay is highly detailed with correct markings and finishes. It’s powered by the numbers-matching C-code 289 V8 factory-rated at 200 horsepower, rebuilt and dressed with chrome valve covers and air cleaner. The engine runs smoothly, paired with the rebuilt C4 automatic transmission and 2.80 differential. Correct hoses, wiring, decals, and even assembly line markings make this engine compartment look factory-fresh.
The undercarriage is show-ready, refinished in proper red oxide primer with black overspray and correct factory markings. Every component, from the suspension and steering to the brakes and fuel system, has been restored or replaced. It’s detailed to a level where mirrors could be placed under the car at shows.
This Mustang comes fully documented with a binder of receipts, registrations, and appraisals dating back to 1979, as well as original manuals, tags, judging sheets, concours awards, a Ford first aid kit, and a Rotunda dusting cloth. Recently serviced and detailed by MS CLASSIC CARS, it’s turn-key ready for the next owner to enjoy, show, and preserve.
If you’re searching for a 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible for sale, a concours-quality classic Mustang restoration, or one of the most highly optioned first-generation Mustangs with long-term provenance, this is the car.
Visit MSClassicCars.com for additional details.
