As the original "pony" car the Mustang has a
special place in American history. ord launched the pony car phenomenon of the
1960s when they introduced the Mustang in April 1964 as a 1965 model at the New
York World's Fair. The excitement grew to a fevered pitch the following day as
Americans read about the great revealing in newspapers throughout the country.
A marketing blitz by Ford followed including a showcasing of the car in the
James Bond film Goldfinger which entered theaters in September 1964.
Beyond that it is probably the most recognizable muscle car
ever produced as well. The first model came off the production line in '64 and
more modern versions are still being produced today. A lot has changed since
the vehicles inception and it is still commonly used as the standard which all
other competitors try to imitate. The 1967 Ford Mustang is part of the first
generation and was very similarl to previous model years. There were however a
few different stylistic variations in regards to the body style and available
accessories.
One of the most fundamental changes for this model year is
that the company decided to utilize alternators instead of generators. While
that decision seems logical today it was remarkable back in the 60's. Back up
lights were welcomed additions as well adding to the functionality of this
classic. The original came with a choice of two separate seats but '67 saw the
manufacturer decide to use only bench seating. A solid rear axle was also
standard on these vehicles which made them drive "stiff" on the
highway and in cities. It wouldn't be until the turn of the century that the
frames would be overhauled entirely.
Trim packages came in 4 basic styles. Both the V6 and V8
equipped models came as either basic trim levels or deluxe. Basic models were
bare bones providing only basic accessories like a radio and simple ventilation
systems. Deluxe models could be equipped with a plethora of different accessories
had better choices for interior upholstery and had many more chrome and other
body molding accentuations. High end models could actually be outfitted in such
a variety of ways that the company had a hard time keeping orders straight.
The 1967 Ford Mustang was also the first of these cars to
see real competition. Chevy finally released the Camaro as an answer to the
'Stang in '67. To answer back to these new competitors Ford decided to make the
Mustang even more powerful. Available engines include the 120 horsepower inline
6 cylinder 200 horsepower V8 225 hp V8 271 hp V8 and a 320 horsepower V8. The
performance oriented GT500 came with its own specialized 428 cubic inch V8
capable of producing 355 horsepower. The average V8 found on most models is the
6.4 liter that produces 320 hp.
Compared with previous model years the frame was increased
by 2 inches in length while the front wheel base was increased by 2.5 inches.
The rear of the 'Stang was also redesigned to look more concave and was
highlighted by larger tail lights. Convertible models came with two separate
glass panes that added protection and a distinct appearance. Also added to the
1967 Ford Mustang were side scoops that matched the color of the rest of the
body unlike previous models that had chrome scoops. Ford removed the block
lettering which was placed on the front of each Mustang giving the vehicle a
more minimalist style.
Ford wanted to produce a budget minded muscle car that
offered more power than any of the new competitors. To that end they succeeded
fairly well. For the price there really was no better equipped comparable
markets from either Chevy Mercury or Pontiac.
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