Ford Mustang (1966)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.

The 1966 Ford Mustang, while iconic, did have its share of common issues. Here are a few of them:

1. **Fuel Tank Design**: The design of the fuel tank was problematic, leading to a risk of rupture and fire in the event of a rear-end collision.
2. **Tire Tread Separation**: There were issues with tire tread separation and belt breakage.
3. **Rust**: Like many cars from that era, the 1966 Mustang was prone to rust, especially in the floor pans and undercarriage.
4. **Electrical Problems**: Some owners reported issues with the electrical system, including faulty wiring and malfunctioning gauges.
5. **Cooling System**: The cooling system could be inadequate, leading to overheating, especially in warmer climates.

Despite these issues, the 1966 Mustang remains a beloved classic.
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Generations/Trim Levels
The 1966 Ford Mustang was part of the **first generation** of Mustangs, which were produced from 1964 to 1973. During this year, several trim levels were available, each offering different features and options. Here are some of the key ones:

### Trim Levels:
- **Standard Hardtop**
- **Standard Convertible**
- **Standard Fastback**
- **GT Package**: Included performance upgrades like a V8 engine, special handling package, and unique badging.
- **Shelby GT350**: A high-performance version built by Carroll Shelby, known for its powerful engine and racing pedigree.

The Mustang was famous for its wide range of customization options, so buyers could personalize their cars with different engines, transmissions, and additional features.
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Engine
The 1966 Ford Mustang came with several engine options, catering to a range of performance preferences:

1. **200 cubic inch (ci) Inline-6**: This was the standard engine, producing 120 horsepower.
2. **289 ci V8 (2-barrel carburetor)**: This engine produced 200 horsepower.
3. **289 ci V8 (4-barrel carburetor)**: This version produced 225 horsepower.
4. **289 ci V8 HiPo (High Performance)**: This high-performance engine produced 271 horsepower and was known as the "K-code" engine.

These engines provided a variety of power levels, making the Mustang appealing to a wide range of drivers.
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Performance
The performance of the 1966 Ford Mustang varied based on the engine and configuration. Here are the performance figures for the different engine options:

1. **200 ci Inline-6**:
- Horsepower: 120 hp
- 0-60 mph: Around 15 seconds
- Top Speed: Approximately 95 mph

2. **289 ci V8 (2-barrel carburetor)**:
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- 0-60 mph: Around 10 seconds
- Top Speed: Approximately 110 mph

3. **289 ci V8 (4-barrel carburetor)**:
- Horsepower: 225 hp
- 0-60 mph: Around 8 seconds
- Top Speed: Approximately 115 mph

4. **289 ci V8 HiPo (High Performance)**:
- Horsepower: 271 hp
- 0-60 mph: Around 7 seconds
- Top Speed: Approximately 120 mph

These figures made the Mustang a versatile car, offering options for those who wanted both style and performance. I
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Rivals
In 1966, the Ford Mustang faced stiff competition from several rivals. Here's a look at the performance offered by some of its main competitors:

### Chevrolet Camaro (1967 model year, introduced late 1966)
- **Engine Options**: Inline-6 and V8 engines
- **Horsepower**: Ranged from 140 hp (Inline-6) to 375 hp (V8)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 7.8 seconds (for the V8)
- **Top Speed**: Around 120 mph

### Plymouth Barracuda
- **Engine Options**: Inline-6 and V8 engines
- **Horsepower**: Ranged from 145 hp (Inline-6) to 235 hp (V8)
- **0-60 mph**: Approximately 8.5 seconds (for the V8)
- **Top Speed**: Around 115 mph

These performance figures made the muscle car market highly competitive, with each model offering its own unique appeal.
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Designer/Dimensions
The 1966 Ford Mustang was designed by **Gale Halderman** - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mustang_%28first_generation%29). He was part of the Ford design team led by Joe Oros, which also included L. David Ash, John Foster, and George Schumaker - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Mustang_%28first_generation%29).

### Dimensions:
- **Length**: 181.6 inches (4613 mm)
- **Width**: 68.3 inches (1735 mm)
- **Height**: 51.0 inches (1295 mm)
- **Wheelbase**: 108.0 inches (2743 mm)
- **Weight**: Approximately 2,500 to 2,650 lbs (1134 to 1202 kg), depending on the model and options.

These dimensions contributed to the Mustang's sporty and compact appearance, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
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Spares/Specialists NI
You can find spare parts for your 1966 Ford Mustang at several locations across the UK and Ireland. Here are a few options:

- **GSF Car Parts**: With over 190 store locations across the UK and Ireland, GSF Car Parts offers a wide range of car parts and accessories.
- **Euro Car Parts**: They have 250+ stores nationwide, including locations in Northern Ireland.

For garage services in Northern Ireland, you have several options:

- **TrustFord Lisburn Ford Store & Van Centre**: Located at 20 Market Pl, Lisburn BT28 1AN.
- **TrustFord Belfast - Newtownards Road Ford Store**: Located at 391-397 Upper Newtownards Rd, Belfast BT4 3LH.
- **Desmond Motors FordStore & Transit Centre**: Located at 173 Strand Road, Londonderry BT48 7PU.

These garages offer various services, including vehicle servicing, repairs, and maintenance for classic cars like the 1966 Ford Mustang.
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Racing
Yes, the 1966 Ford Mustang had a notable presence in various racing events. Here are some highlights:

### Drag Racing
- **NHRA Factory Experimental (A/FX) Class**: The Mustang was a popular choice for drag racing, with racers fitting powerful engines like the 427-cubic-inch V8. Bill Lawton drove his Tasca Ford Mustang A/FX to victory in its very first race.

### Road Racing
- **SCCA B/Production**: Carroll Shelby introduced the Mustang GT350, a high-performance version of the Mustang, for Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) competition. The GT350 was a stripped-down Mustang 2+2 with modified suspension, shocks, steering, brakes, and a Ford 289-cubic-inch V8.
- **Trans-Am Series**: The Mustang also competed in the Trans-American Sedan Championship (Trans-Am) series, which was a professional road racing series. The Shelby GT350 played a significant role in this series.

### Endurance Racing
- **Tour de France Automobile**: The Mustang finished first and second in its class in the 1964 Tour de France international rally, marking an auspicious beginning for its racing career.

The Mustang's success in these racing events helped solidify its reputation as a performance car and contributed to its enduring legacy.
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Valuation
The value of a 1966 Ford Mustang in the UK in 2025 can vary widely based on its condition, originality, and any modifications. Here are some examples of recent listings:

- **Ford Mustang Coupe Restomod 332cu 5 speed**: £47,750
- **Ford Mustang GT Coupe 289 V8 Manual**: £29,995
- **Ford Mustang 4.7 V8**: £65,000

These prices reflect the range you might expect to see for a well-maintained classic Mustang.
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Clubs
There are Ford Mustang owners clubs in Northern Ireland. One notable group is **Simply Mustangs NI**, which is active on Facebook. This group is dedicated to Mustang enthusiasts in Northern Ireland and provides a platform for members to share their passion, organize events, and offer support to fellow Mustang owners.

If you're interested in joining or learning more, you can check out their [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/groups/568207888105854/).
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