271 bhp, 289 cu. in. K-Code V-8 engine, single four-barrel carburetor, four-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with unequal-length A-arms and coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and front disc and rear drum hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 108 in.

• ‘K-Code’ high-performance 289 V-8/four-speed powertrain combo

• Highly equipped with a “Pony” interior and more

• Restored in the early-2000s; highly equipped with factory A/C, a “Pony” interior, and more

• From the collection of Ray Bowersox

Introduced in 1964, Ford’s Mustang created an overnight sensation, and its debut marks the most successful new car introduction of all time. In Mustang: The Original Pony Car, the Mustang’s “father,” Lee Iacocca, was quoted as saying, “For me, the excitement in the automobile business is to do something different; to pioneer a new concept and to win.” He continued, “We reached way out, and the success that the Mustang has enjoyed is proof that Americans really like something which is entirely new and dramatic.”

Mustang’s success came from its unprecedented combination of a compact and sporty car that was both affordable and comfortable with a comprehensive option list that allowed almost anyone to build a Mustang to fit their personal needs and budget. The Mustang triggered competition from every major American car company, but none achieved the Mustang’s enduring level of success. Of course, during Ford’s “Total Performance” era, the Mustang’s option list included a wide range of powertrain combinations topped by the high-winding 289 V-8 with 271 horsepower in solid-lifter tune and a four-speed manual transmission.

Powered by the top-of-the-line K-Code high-performance 289 V-8, this iconic Mustang convertible was built on June 15th, 1965 and is equipped with a four-speed manual transmission. The interior features the highly desirable “Pony” upholstery theme. Other great features include front disc brakes, a 3.89-ratio nine-inch rear differential, a dual exhaust, “Rally-Pac” gauges, a remote-control mirror on the driver’s side, and a wood grain steering wheel. It is believed that air-conditioning was added later to the car. The restoration was completed during the early-2000s, and the car continues to present very well today, with very nice paint-work and a detailed engine bay. It is reported to run and drive very well, and it is equipped with the most desirable period performance and appearance features, including the hot K-Code 289 V-8 mated to a four-speed powertrain. Less than one percent of ’65 Mustangs were offered with the K-Code option and even fewer were built on the convertible platform. This 1965 Mustang ‘K-Code’ Convertible is a superb example of a rare American icon.