You probably think you already know everything there is to know about the Ford Mustang. After all, this American icon has been the most famous car since it first roared onto the scene in 1964. But while you may know about its starring role in Hollywood movies or its legendary V8 engine, there are plenty of surprising facts hiding under its hood.
Let’s take a look at some lesser known facts about the Ford Mustang
It Was Almost Called the Cougar
Ford’s most famous car nearly had a very different name. Before the Mustang was launched, the company toyed with names like Cougar and T-Bird II. Designers even created early badges featuring a cougar. But the marketing team finally settled on Mustang, inspired by the wild, untamed horses of the American West.
The name perfectly captures the adventurous spirit Ford wanted for its new sports car.
Debut at the World’s Fair
Mustang made its grand debut not in a dealership, but at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Ford unveiled the car in a futuristic pavilion, and visitors got a firsthand look at what would become one of the best-selling cars of all time.
This unconventional launch set the tone for the Mustang’s reputation as a trendsetter. Within a year, over 400,000 were sold.
First Mustang Sold for Less Than $2,500
It’s hard to believe now, but an original 1964 Ford Mustang cost just $2,368. Adjusted for inflation, that’s roughly $23,000 in today’s money. The affordable price tag was a big reason for the Mustang’s early success – making it accessible to young drivers who wanted something sporty but budget-friendly.
Steve McQueen’s Bullitt Mustang Almost Lost Forever
One of the most famous movie cars ever was the 1968 Mustang GT Fastback driven by Steve McQueen in Bullitt. After the film wrapped, it disappeared into private collections, and for decades the car’s whereabouts were a mystery. It wasn’t until 2017 that the original Bullitt Mustang resurfaced, in a family garage in Tennessee. Fully restored, it sold at auction for $3.7 million in 2020.
Inspiration for the Pony Car Movement
The galloping success of the Mustang inspired a whole new category of vehicles, known as pony cars. These were affordable, compact sports cars with long hoods, short rear decks, and room for four passengers. Competitors like the Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and Pontiac Firebird followed in Mustang’s tire tracks, trying to capture the same magic.
Mustang II Saved the Brand During Oil Crisis
Gas prices soared in the early 1970s due to an oil crisis in the Middle East. Mustang II, a smaller and more fuel-efficient version of the original, was launched in 1973 and immediately appealed to drivers who couldn’t afford to guzzle gas.
It was based on the Ford Pinto platform, which raised some eyebrows with purists, but it sold well enough to keep the Mustang line going. Without Mustang II, the beloved muscle car might not have survived the economic challenges of the time.
Shelby GT350 Was Built for the Track
When Ford teamed up with racing legend Carroll Shelby in 1965, the result was the high-performance Shelby GT350. This version of the Mustang was built with racing in mind. Early versions were so track-focused that they didn’t even come with back seats!
But the beefed-up V8 engine, enhanced suspension, and lightweight design cemented the Mustang’s reputation as a car that could dominate both the street and the racetrack.
Mustang Holds a Guinness World Record
How many Mustangs can you squeeze into one Mexican town? The answer is 1,326 – and it’s a record breaker. In 2018, Ford organized the largest Mustang parade in history, featuring 1,326 cars cruising together in Toluca, Mexico. This impressive feat earned the Mustang a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Why the Horse Logo Looks Left
That galloping horse logo on the Mustang’s bonnet is one of the most recognizable symbols in the automotive world, but did you know why the horse faces left? It’s because its designer, Phil Clark, reckoned it helped the emblem to convincingly convey motion. The logo has evolved over the years but has always stayed true to its equestrian theme.
Fun fact: Ford considered giving the horse emblem a cowboy rider at one point, but decided the lone horse was more striking.
How to be a Pop Culture Phenomenon
From its prominent role in movies like Bullitt and Gone in 60 Seconds to its appearance in countless songs, TV shows, and even toys, the Mustang has captured the hearts of millions and quickly became a pop culture sensation. It’s one of the few cars that transcended its category to become a symbol of American cool.
Mustang’s Secret Link to Airplanes
Ford’s Mustang shares its name with the P-51 Mustang, a famous fighter plane that helped win World War II. The company’s designers have hinted that the airplane’s legendary speed and performance influenced the car’s spirit. This aviation association adds to the muscle car’s mystique. Ford later reinforced the connection by introducing special edition Mustangs like the Mach 1.
In Production Longer Than Almost Any Car
Few cars can boast the 60-year production run of the Mustang. Since its debut in 1964, it has been in continuous production, making it one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history, outlasting competitors and adapting through changing times. Its ability to evolve while staying true to its roots is a big reason why it remains so beloved today.
One of the Most Customizable Cars Ever Made
Custom car fans adore the adaptable Mustang. Ford has always encouraged owners to make their cars their own. From its early days, the Mustang has been offered with a staggering array of options, trims, and packages. Whether you want a convertible, a coupe, a high-performance engine, or just a stylish cruiser, there’s a Mustang for you.
Over the years, enthusiasts have taken customization to the next level, turning their Mustangs into one-of-a-kind machines that reflect their personalities.
First Car to Have Its Own Hot Wheels Model
Hot Wheels released its first-ever Mustang toy car back in 1968, cementing the vehicle’s place in the hearts of kids everywhere. The small-scale model captured the Mustang’s sleek lines and sporty look, making it an instant hit. Decades later, the Mustang remains one of the most popular Hot Wheels models ever produced.
Mach-E Redefines Mustang for a New Era
Despite its rich past, Mustang is blazing a trail into the future with the Mach-E, an all-electric SUV inspired by the classic pony car. While some purists initially balked at the idea of an electric Mustang, the Mach-E has earned rave reviews for its performance, technology, and bold design. It’s proof that the Mustang can evolve while still staying true to its spirit of innovation and excitement.