How much did a Mustang cost in 1965?
In 1965, a brand-new Ford Mustang typically cost in the low-to-mid two-thousands, with base coupes starting around the low $2,000s and higher prices for V8s, convertibles, and option-heavy trim. Prices varied by body style and added features.
Here’s a closer look at how much buyers paid in 1965, how the price differed by model, and what options pushed costs higher.
Pricing Basics in 1965
Prices for the 1965 Mustang depended largely on engine choice, body style, and options. Ford's advertised MSRPs placed base models in the low-to-mid $2,000s, with V8s and convertibles toward the higher end of the range.
Body styles and price ranges
- Base two-door coupe with a six-cylinder engine: roughly $2,300–$2,500
- V8-equipped coupe or hardtop: roughly $2,600–$2,900
- Convertible (with similar engine options): roughly $2,800–$3,000
Prices are typical ranges drawn from period brochures and dealer literature. Actual transaction prices could vary by region, dealer, taxes, and optional equipment.
Options that Affected the Total Price
Popular add-ons and powertrain choices pushed final price higher, especially when combining multiple options. Here are some of the most common drivers of cost.
- 289-ci V8 engine upgrade (from the base inline-six or smaller V8): typically adds a few hundred dollars
- Automatic transmission vs manual: generally adds a modest amount to the sticker price
- Convertible body style vs coupe: typically higher by several hundred dollars
- Performance or GT package: adds value but also increased cost, depending on the year’s option sheet
In practice, dealer lists, regional taxes, and the availability of options could widen these gaps, meaning two identical cars could end up at different final prices.
Historical Context and Takeaways
The Mustang's initial popularity helped Ford price the car competitively against entry-level imports and other American compacts. The pricing strategy emphasized affordability while offering a strong customization path for buyers who wanted more power, style, or performance features within the Mustang line.
Summary
In 1965, a new Mustang typically ranged from about $2,300 on the low end to around $3,000 for higher trims and convertibles. The exact price depended on engine choice, body style, and options, with dealers and regions introducing minor variations. The model’s appeal lay in its blend of affordability and upgrade paths that could push the price higher while staying within reach for many buyers.
