This rare Poppy Red Mustang looks and drives like it just came off the assembly line in San Jose. It is in original condition; all Ford Body tags match engine and drivetrain numbers. The only modification is an upgraded suspension and an electric fuel pump. This car is a real pleasure to drive. The dual direct flow exhaust has a smooth rumble and the new suspension makes handling curves fun. The engine has strong acceleration power and the rebuilt, original brakes are firm.
I purchased this car in June, 2025 in Deer Park, Washington (15 miles north of Spokane). The previous owner had owned the car since 1995. The car was manufactured in San Jose on July 13, 1965 and sold at Bill Pierre Motors in Seattle. In 2015 the previous owner had it stripped and painted Poppy Red to match the original color. He estimates that in 30 years he drove it about 68,000 miles of the 147,500 total miles on the car.
When I acquired this vehicle the engine and drivetrain operated smoothly and the exterior and interior were in very good condition. Receipts show the original Cruise-O-Matic transmission was rebuilt in April, 2004 by Cottman Transmission in Phoenix AZ, with the odometer reading 134,819. The previous owner had rear air shocks installed in August, 2021 in Deer Park, WA with a mileage reading of 145,551. My goal was to restore this rare Mustang to its original condition. Only OEM/OER quality parts were used for this project. Usable parts that were removed have been retained for the buyer.
The lead mechanic for Mad Greek Racing performed most of the work, with my able assistance. We started by replacing the entire front and rear suspension systems. Adjustable upper control arms with adjustable strut rods were installed to achieve perfect wheel alignment. The power assisted steering system was removed and replaced, including the massive control valve assembly. The drum brake pads and shoes are new but the wheels are original. All ball joints replaced. Wheel bearings replaced. Pinion gear seal replaced. Transmission mount replaced.
For the engine, the following items were removed and replaced: carburetor, fuel pump (electric), timing chain, distributor, starter, water pump, fuel, oil & temp sending units, windshield washer reservoir, voltage regulator, OER air cleaner assembly, and alternator. The aluminum radiator was replaced with a brass OER radiator. The gas tank had some dents and damage, so we replaced it (with new sending unit). New fuel lines installed.
The engine has excellent mid-range RPM acceleration. Compression test shows all cylinders approximately 12-15% below optimum range; normal for a 61-year old engine that has not been rebuilt.
The front and rear bumpers, rocker panel moldings, door handles, mirrors, badges, and door sill plates were removed and replaced. The windshield and seal are new; the rear window is original and has a new seal. All other glass and chrome window moldings are original and in excellent condition. New weatherstripping installed on door jams and window frames. The front grill assembly is new. The original knockoff hubcaps were replaced with OER hubcaps. All exterior light assemblies replaced: headlights, turning lights, and taillights.
Interior items removed and replaced: door interior trim panels, fuel gage, temp gage, speedometer, turn signal assembly, instrument lights, transmission T-handle and cover plate, and door arm rests. Original-look Hermosa RetroSound stereo w/Blue Tooth installed. Seat belts installed (missing when purchased). Trunk seal replaced along with lock and latch assembly. Trunk floor lined with acoustic padding and truck lined with carpet. Underbody and wheel wells cleaned and treated with rubberized underbody application.
