In a market flooded with over-restored classics and tribute builds, an unspoiled 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback has emerged as a rare find — an honest, rust-free survivor that still carries the authenticity of its original build.
This particular 2+2 Fastback, a factory C-code V8 car paired with a four-speed manual transmission, was sold new in Bozeman, Montana, before spending decades in the dry climate of Monterey, California. From 1984 until recently, it remained under single ownership, accumulating just 89,000 miles and preserving much of its originality along the way.
Finished in its original Vintage Burgundy (Code X) with a Palomino interior, the car wears a single repaint from the 1980s that still presents well, showing only gentle wear consistent with its age. The paint retains a deep sheen, complemented by new chrome bumpers and all-original stainless trim. The body remains straight and accident-free, with original floor pans untouched — a rarity among early Mustangs, which often suffer from corrosion.
Inside, the cabin is a time capsule. The Palomino vinyl seats, headliner, dash pad, and carpet are all factory original. The AM radio still works, as do the heater, wipers, and interior lighting. Even the reverse lockout T-handle shifter remains in place — a small but significant detail that collectors prize.
Under the hood, the original 289-cubic-inch V8 has been bored to 302 and rebuilt, running strong and delivering crisp power through all four gears. Recent upgrades include rack-and-pinion steering for improved handling, making it both classic and comfortable on modern roads. The undercarriage is remarkably clean, showing no rust or patchwork, a testament to its California preservation.
With just 60 years of light use and decades of careful ownership, this Mustang offers something increasingly scarce — originality. Whether kept as an unrestored survivor or used as a foundation for a concours-level restoration, this 1965 Mustang Fastback represents the unfiltered charm of Ford’s first pony car era.
For enthusiasts seeking an unmolested, numbers-correct Fastback with integrity, this one stands as a genuine reminder of why the Mustang became an American legend.
