For Sale: 1966 Ford Mustang in Bradenton, Florida

1966 Ford Mustang Convertible �€" Emberglo Copper, 302 V8, Custom Build Why This Car Is Special The 1966 Ford Mustang convertible is one of the most recognized automobiles in American history, and for good reason. Ford sold over 607,000 Mustangs in calendar year 1966, making it the best-selling model year of the first-generation run. Of those, convertibles accounted for roughly 72,000 units �€" a meaningful slice, but a fraction of the total production. When you factor in the color, the engine, and the level of custom work on this particular car, you're looking at a configuration that would not have been easy to find even the day it rolled off the Dearborn line. The VIN on this car decodes to confirm it was assembled at the San Jose, California plant �€" the 'T' in the sixth position of the sequence identifies that facility. San Jose-built first-generation Mustangs are well-documented among collectors, and the California assembly origin adds a layer of regional history that enthusiasts appreciate. The body style code confirms the convertible body, and the sequence number places this car solidly within the 1966 model year production run. The color is Emberglo, Ford's factory copper-brown metallic that was offered during this period and has a warmth to it that photographs do not fully capture in person. It is a less common choice compared to the period's reds and blacks, which makes this car easy to identify in a crowd of first-generation Mustangs. Paired with a red and parchment two-tone vinyl interior and a white convertible top, the color combination is cohesive and period-correct in spirit, even as the car has been thoroughly updated mechanically and cosmetically. This 1966 Ford Mustang convertible has been built as a driver �€" one that can be used regularly, driven confidently, and enjoyed without the anxiety that comes with a numbers-matching show car. The owner invested in a long list of practical upgrades: modern ignition, upgraded cooling, better braking, and a Magnaflow dual exhaust system, all while keeping the car's proportions and character true to the original design. Features List - 302ci V8 engine - Cruise-O-Matic 3-Speed Automatic Transmission - Ford Racing chrome valve covers - MSD Ignition System - Chrome Mustang air cleaner - Aluminum radiator with electric cooling fan - Exhaust header wrap - Magnaflow dual exhaust - Power steering - Front disc brakes - Chrome Ridler wheels - Chrome front and rear bumpers - Side scoops - White convertible top - Racing stripes - 302 side stripe decals - Tachometer gauge cluster - Wood grain steering wheel - Aftermarket AM/FM stereo - Bucket seats with center console - Custom Pony floor mats - Undercoated floor pan - Emberglo Copper exterior - Red and Parchment vinyl interior Mechanical The 302 cubic inch V8 under the hood of this 1966 Ford Mustang convertible is a Ford small-block with a strong aftermarket upgrade list. The MSD ignition system replaces the factory points-style distributor with a more reliable, higher-output electronic unit that provides a hotter, more consistent spark across the RPM range. This is a well-understood upgrade in the classic Ford community and a practical one �€" MSD systems are easy to tune and easy to service. The Ford Racing chrome valve covers are more than cosmetic; they signal that someone with knowledge of these engines put time and money into this build with intention. Cooling is handled by an aluminum radiator paired with an electric cooling fan �€" a combination that addresses one of the known weaknesses of running a small-block Ford in a convertible in warmer climates. The factory mechanical fan and single-row radiator were adequate for 1966 conditions, but removing the engine-driven fan reduces parasitic power loss and improves airflow management at low speeds and in traffic. In Florida heat, this matters. The exhaust starts with wrapped headers, which help retain heat in the exhaust stream and reduce under-hood temperatures. The Magn