After the initial production of the Mustang, the Ford Motor Company continued to make new improvements to their muscle car. As it grew in popularity, more attention was shifted into giving consumers what they wanted both in power and looks. This resulted in a whole new breed of Mustangs that are still revered today.
1967 Mustang – Major Redesigns
This was the year that Ford decided to completely overhaul the overall look of the Mustang. This model was much larger than the 1966 version and featured a lot more cargo space. In addition, the other changes included a new tail scoop and different taillights that were more concave in shape. A significant increase in horsepower was added, bringing the engine up to 320 hp, up from 120 hp in the first models. The engine was borrowed from the Thunderbird and replaced the old 289 option, which remained available to consumers who didn’t need quite as much power as the new engine provided.
This year also saw the abolition of the “Pony Interior” and major interior changes took place. A new package was introduced as an option that included a brushed stainless steel dash, which was very popular. The air conditioning unit was removed from under the dash and integrated into the dash system.
In addition to their base models, Ford started their trend of releasing specialized models, which continues today. 1967 saw the initial release of the High Country Edition which was offered in both fastback and convertible options, as well as the new California Special which was only available to consumers who lived in the West.
1968 Mustang – The Trend Continues
Ford continued to make innovations to the Mustang in 1968. They released another California Special edition and made the High Country Special available only as a coupe during this year. Wood grain was added an option to the dash and the engine got a little attention too. This was the first year that customers could special order the Mustang with a Cobra Jet engine that was capable of producing up to 335 hp. The stock engine remained the 390 which could easily reach speeds in excess of 105 mph.
New side ornamentation and mirrors were added during this year as well as the by now obligatory gas cap changes. New interior options included a tilt steering wheel option and the specialized interior paneling. This year’s model was made into an icon thanks to a film called Bullitt, starring Steve McQueen. In addition, the 1967 Ford Mustang would be immortalized in a film later on entitled Gone in 60 Seconds. The Bullitt edition Ford Mustang has been released in 2008 as a special anniversary collectible and people still try to hunt down the mythical ’67 Eleanor.
This was also the era that Ford began to see some competition after taking Chevy and Dodge by surprise when they sold 1.5 million units during their first two years in production. This competition would only serve to make Ford work even harder at making the ultimate muscle car.
