The 1965 Ford Mustang review reveals why this first-gen Mustang became an instant classic. We’ll explore its revolutionary design, thrilling Mustang V8 performance, and why this classic Mustang remains a benchmark for American sports cars nearly 60 years later.
How the Pony Car Was Born
In 1964, America was going crazy for muscle cars. But something was missing – a stylish, affordable car that looked fast and didn’t cost a fortune. Then came the 1965 Ford Mustang. It wasn’t just another car; it changed everything. In this 1965 Ford Mustang review, we’ll dive into why this first-generation Mustang became an instant legend.
The Ford team, led by Lee Iacocca, came up with a compact coupe with a long hood, short rear end, and a price tag under $2,500. They called it the Mustang – after the wild horse, not the fighter jet. When it launched on April 17, 1964 (sold as a 1965 model), dealers couldn’t keep up. Ford hoped to sell 100,000 units in the first year. They sold 400,000.
What made it so special? The design was sleek but practical, with room for four. Chrome accents and that iconic prancing horse emblem made it stand out. Buyers could choose from coupes, convertibles, or fastbacks, plus a ton of colors and trims. At just $2,368 (about $23,000 today), it was a godsend for young drivers.
Performance and Engine Options
When it comes to reviewing the 1965 Ford Mustang, the engine lineup is where the first-generation Mustang really shined. Ford gave buyers a choice – whether you wanted sensible daily transportation or a tire-slicing street car, there was a Mustang for you.
The base model came with a modest 170cc inline-6 that produced just 105 horsepower. It wasn’t fast, but it was affordable and reliable – perfect for daily driving. Next up was the 289cc V8, offered in two flavors: a two-barrel carbureted version producing 200 hp, and a four-barrel version producing 271 hp. This was the sweet spot for most enthusiasts, providing the perfect balance of power and drivability.
For many, the 289ci Hi-Po (K-code) V8, also producing 271 hp, was the perfect option. It had:
- a hotter camshaft;
- higher compression;
- aggressive tuning.
It wasn’t just the numbers – the sound, the throttle response and the simple attitude made it special. Today, the Mustang V8 models, especially the Hi-Po, are the most sought after by collectors.
Here’s a quick overview of the engines:
| Engine | Horsepower | 0-60 mph (est.) | Top Speed |
| 170ci Inline-6 | 105 HP | ~13 sec | 100 mph |
| 289ci 2V V8 | 200 HP | ~9 sec | 115 mph |
| 289ci 4V V8 | 271 HP | ~7 sec | 125 mph |
| 289ci Hi-Po V8 | 271 HP* | ~6.5 sec | 130 mph |
*Hi-Po made similar peak power but delivered it more aggressively.
On the road, the classic Mustang was a blast. The lightweight body and rear-wheel drive made it nimble, and the V8 delivered that classic American muscle rumble. By today’s standards, the first-gen Mustang feels raw and engaging. No electronic aids, just pure driving pleasure.
If you’re looking at a 1965 Ford Mustang review today, the V8 models are the ones that hold their value. Whether it’s a smooth cruiser or a fire-breathing Hi-Po, there’s no wrong choice. Just different shades of awesome.
Mustang Interior & Trim Packages
When reviewing the 1965 Ford Mustang, it’s impossible not to notice its well-appointed interior. The first-generation Mustang offered a driver-focused interior that combined sportiness with everyday comfort. It’s the main reason this classic Mustang remains such a favorite.
Once behind the wheel, you’ll see a simple yet stylish dashboard. The round gauges are clean and easy to read, with a prominent speedometer and fuel gauge. The three-spoke steering wheel feels comfortable in your hands, whether you’re cruising at speed or pushing the Mustang V8 through winding roads. The front bucket seats provide solid support, and the rear bench (yes, it fits adults) makes this pony car surprisingly practical.
Ford knew that buyers wanted options, so they offered several trim levels:
- Standard Interior: Vinyl upholstery, basic door panels, and rubber floor mats are functional without being overly fancy.
- Deluxe Interior: Upgraded fabrics, chrome accents, and carpeting for a more premium feel.
- GT Package: Adds wood trim, a sport steering wheel, and unique badges for a performance-oriented ambience.
Options allow owners to personalize their ride. You can get:
- A push-button AM radio (a big deal in 1965).
- A floor-mounted shifter for manual transmissions.
- Wood appliques on the instrument panel for a touch of luxury.
- A console with a storage compartment and a clock.
The attention to detail extended to the color scheme, too. Ford offered 15 interior color combinations, from basic black to two-tone red and white. Want your classic Mustang to stand out? You can match the seats to the body color, a bold move that still turns heads today.
What makes the first-generation Mustang’s interior special is its connection with the driver. There’s no thick A-pillar to block your view, no touchscreens to distract you. Just you, the road, and that iconic prancing horse emblem on the steering wheel. Whether it was powered by a humble inline-6 or a roaring Mustang V8, each model made you feel like you were driving something special.
Today, well-preserved interiors command a premium. Crack-free instrument panels, undamaged upholstery, and factory parts are all important to collectors. If you’re reading this 1965 Ford Mustang review while shopping, look for cars with original (or properly restored) interiors. That’s the best way to see this icon as it was meant to be seen.
Should You Restore or Buy One Today?
If you’re thinking about owning a classic Mustang, you have options. Untouched models can fetch big bucks, especially V8 convertibles. But solid project cars still exist. Restoring one takes time and money, but the results are worth it.
Prices continue to rise, especially for rare specs. A Hi-Po car that lives up to the numbers? That’s a six-figure car now. Even decent drivers start at $30K. The first-generation Mustang isn’t just a car — it’s a piece of history.
This 1965 Ford Mustang review proves why it’s still the king of the pony cars. The design was revolutionary. The Mustang V8 was a game changer. And the cultural impact? Unrivaled. Whether you’re a collector or just a fan, the first-generation Mustang is a real find. Few cars define an era like this one. More than half a century later, it’s still the standard.
