The Pony Car’s Golden Years

A detailed guide to the iconic 1968 Ford Mustang, including its design, performance, and significance in automotive history. …

A detailed guide to the iconic 1968 Ford Mustang, including its design, performance, and significance in automotive history.

Introduction

The 1968 Ford Mustang is a legendary car that embodies the spirit of American muscle. As a third-generation model, it built upon the success of its predecessors while introducing new styling cues and performance upgrades. In this article, we’ll delve into the history, design, and significance of the ‘68 Mustang, as well as its engine options, transmission choices, and variants.

Brief History of the 1968 Ford Mustan

The 1968 Ford Mustang was a culmination of the pony car’s golden years, which spanned from 1964 to 1973. The first-generation Mustang (1964-1969) revolutionized the automotive industry with its sporty design and affordable price tag. The second-generation model (1970-1973) introduced larger dimensions, new styling cues, and a more powerful engine lineup. The third-generation ‘68 Mustang retained the iconic fastback design while incorporating modern safety features and improved performance.

Significance of the 1968 Ford Mustan

The 1968 Ford Mustang is significant for several reasons:

• It marked the final year of the classic Mustang design, which would be replaced by more angular and boxy styling cues in subsequent years.
• The ‘68 model introduced a new high-performance engine option, the 428 Cobra Jet, which produced 335 horsepower.
• The car’s popularity continued to soar, with over 317,000 units sold in 1968 alone.

Design and Styling of the 1968 Ford Mustan

The 1968 Ford Mustang retained its iconic fastback design, which was a hallmark of the original ‘64 model. The new design incorporated:

• A larger grille with a prominent “Mustang” logo
• Sweeping lines that emphasized the car’s muscular stance
• A more aggressive front bumper with a prominent air dam

The 1968 Mustang also introduced new color options and trim levels, including:

• Redline stripes on the hood and trunk lid
• Chrome-tipped exhaust pipes
• Sport-style bucket seats with console-mounted shifter

Color Options and Trim Levels

The 1968 Ford Mustang came in a range of colors, including:

• Wimbledon White
• Silver Blue Metallic
• Canyon Orange
• Fjord Blue Metallic
• Tropic Green Metallic
• Gulf Stream Aqua Metallic

Trim levels included:

• Base model (with no options)
• Deluxe model (added features like carpeted floor mats and deluxe interior trim)
• GT Equipment Package (added performance-oriented features like a sport suspension and power front disc brakes)

Performance and Specifications

The 1968 Ford Mustang offered various engine options, including:

• 200 cubic-inch V6 engine (120 horsepower, 240 lb-ft torque)
• 302 cubic-inch Windsor V8 engine (230 horsepower, 300 lb-ft torque)
• 428 cubic-inch Cobra Jet V8 engine (335 horsepower, 440 lb-ft torque)

Transmission options included a standard three-speed automatic or a four-speed manual.

Engine Options for the 1968 Ford Mustan

The ‘68 Mustang offered several engine options:

• Base model: 200 cubic-inch V6 engine
• Deluxe model: 302 cubic-inch Windsor V8 engine
• GT Equipment Package: 428 cubic-inch Cobra Jet V8 engine

Horsepower and Torque Ratings for the 1968 Ford Mustan

Engine options included:

• 200 cubic-inch V6: 120 horsepower, 240 lb-ft torque
• 302 cubic-inch Windsor V8: 230 horsepower, 300 lb-ft torque
• 428 cubic-inch Cobra Jet V8: 335 horsepower, 440 lb-ft torque

Transmission Options

Transmission choices for the ‘68 Mustang included:

• Standard three-speed automatic (C4)
• Four-speed manual (Toploader)

Variants and Special Editions

The 1968 Ford Mustang offered various variants and special editions, including:

• Fastback model: featured a distinctive sloping roofline
• Convertible model: featured a soft-top removable roof
• Coupe model: featured a fixed-roof design

Special editions included the:

• GT Package (added performance-oriented features)
• Cobra Jet Package (added high-performance components)

Fastback, Convertible, and Coupe Body Styles

The 1968 Ford Mustang was available in three body styles:

• Fastback: featured a distinctive sloping roofline
• Convertible: featured a soft-top removable roof
• Coupe: featured a fixed-roof design

GT Equipment Package

The GT Equipment Package added performance-oriented features to the ‘68 Mustang, including:

• Sport suspension with thicker sway bars and stiffer springs
• Power front disc brakes
• High-performance tires
• Chrome-tipped exhaust pipes

Impact on the Automotive Industry

The 1968 Ford Mustang had a significant impact on the automotive industry:

• It marked the end of the classic Mustang design, which would be replaced by more angular and boxy styling cues in subsequent years.
• The ‘68 model introduced a new high-performance engine option, the 428 Cobra Jet, which produced 335 horsepower.

Sales Figures and Popularity

The 1968 Ford Mustang sold over 317,000 units worldwide, making it one of the best-selling cars of its time.

Influence on Competitor Models

The ‘68 Mustang influenced competitor models like the Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Charger, which responded with their own high-performance offerings.

Collectibility and Value of the 1968 Ford Mustan

The 1968 Ford Mustang has become a highly collectible car, particularly in restored condition. Prices for ‘68 Mustangs vary depending on the condition, trim level, and engine options:

• Base model (302 V8): $15,000 - $25,000
• Deluxe model (302 V8): $20,000 - $35,000
• GT Equipment Package (428 Cobra Jet): $30,000 - $50,000

Buying Guide

When purchasing a 1968 Ford Mustang, look for:

• A clean title and a thorough vehicle inspection report
• Original or restored interior with minimal wear
• Engine and transmission in good condition, with no signs of leaks or damage
• Rust-free body panels and a solid frame
• Correct trim level and engine options (if desired)

Conclusion

The 1968 Ford Mustang is an iconic car that embodies the spirit of American muscle. With its powerful engine options, sporty design, and rich history, it’s no wonder why this car has become so collectible and valuable. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a enthusiast, the ‘68 Mustang is a must-have addition to any classic car collection.