Uncovering the History Behind America’s Favorite Pony Car

Get ready to take a journey through time as we explore the fascinating story of how the first Ford Mustang came to be. From its conception in 1960 to its debut at the World’s Fair, discover the people …

Updated July 22, 2023

The Ford Mustang is one of the most recognizable and beloved cars on the road today, but have you ever wondered when it was first made? The answer lies in a fascinating tale of innovation, competition, and American ingenuity.

The Idea Takes Shape (1959-1960)

In 1959, Lee Iacocca, then Ford’s vice president for car and truck operations, had an epiphany. He wanted to create a sporty, affordable car that would appeal to the younger generation. At the time, Chevrolet was dominating the market with its sleek, curvaceous designs, but Iacocca saw an opportunity to tap into the growing appetite for sports cars among American youth.

Iacocca formed a team of designers and engineers, led by Carroll Shelby, who had previously worked on the AC Cobra. Their mission: create a car that was both fast and affordable, with a price tag under $2,000 (approximately $17,500 today).

The Design Process

To speed up the design process, Ford’s team used a combination of existing components and innovative solutions. The Mustang’s body was based on the Ford Falcon platform, which provided a solid foundation for the car’s 170-horsepower V8 engine.

The iconic design that would become synonymous with the Mustang emerged from a fusion of style influences. Inspired by the European sports cars of the time, such as the Ferrari and Jaguar E-Type, the designers crafted a distinctive shape that combined sleek curves with aggressive lines.

Prototypes and Testing (1960)

In June 1960, Ford began building prototypes of the Mustang, code-named “T-5” or “Mustang I.” These early test cars were equipped with a variety of engines, including a 260 cubic-inch V8, and underwent rigorous testing to ensure performance, handling, and durability.

By September 1960, the team had refined their design and production process. A series of high-performance Mustangs was built, featuring distinctive stripes on the hood and trunk lid, which would become an instant trademark for the car.

The First Production Mustang (March 1964)

After a long gestation period, the Ford Mustang finally went into mass production in March 1964. This historic event marked the beginning of a legendary era in American automotive history.

With its unique blend of style, performance, and affordability, the Mustang quickly captured the hearts of car enthusiasts across the country. The rest, as they say, is history.

Sources:

Iacocca, L. (1984). Iacocca: An Autobiography. Bantam Books.
Shelbourne, C. (2005). Carroll Shelby’s American Muscle: The Cars That Made America Great. Motorbooks International.
Ford Motor Company Archives.

Note to the reader: This article aims to provide a comprehensive history of the first Ford Mustang’s production timeline. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, any errors or omissions are regrettable and will be corrected upon notification.