9 Greatest Classic Ford Mustang Cars Ever Produced

When it comes to the iconic world of American muscle cars, few vehicles hold the same prestige and admiration as the best classic Mustang models. Since its debut in 1964, the Ford Mustang has become more than just a car, it’s a symbol of freedom, power, and American ingenuity. 

Over the years, variations of the Mustang have left a permanent imprint on the automobile industry, solidifying the car’s legendary status. From the early first-generation models to high-performance variants that continue to be sought after today, classic Ford Mustangs have never ceased to amaze car enthusiasts.

These beloved cars have earned their place in the automotive hall of fame, not just for their beauty but also for their ability to blend performance with style. For collectors, owning one of the best classic Mustang models isn't merely about nostalgia, it's about being part of an enduring legacy. 

Here, we look at some of the greatest classic Ford Mustangs ever produced, tracing their lineage through automotive history and performance milestones.

1965 Ford Mustang GT Fastback - The Original Muscle

Kicking off our list is the legendary 1965 Mustang GT Fastback, one of the earliest models that set the stage for the pony car revolution. This model is often cited as one of the best classic Mustang cars thanks to its combination of sleek design and exhilarating performance. Its hallmark was the unmistakable fastback roofline, which gave it a more aerodynamic and aggressive stance. 

The GT package, which included front disc brakes, improved suspension, and dual exhausts, made this car a dream for driving enthusiasts. Whether cruising down highways or revving at a stoplight, the 1965 GT Fastback had a presence that was impossible to ignore.

Today, classic Ford Mustangs for sale in the GT Fastback category often come at a premium courtesy of their lasting popularity and historical significance. It’s a model that commands attention, not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its role in cementing the Mustang’s place in the vast array of great American cars.

1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429: A Muscle Icon

The 1969 Boss 429 Mustang remains one of the most iconic American muscle cars ever made, with a combination of raw power and cutting-edge engineering. Widely regarded as one of the best classic Mustang variations, the Boss 429 featured a massive 7.0-liter V8 engine that produced an impressive 375 horsepower. 

But it wasn’t just about brute force, the Boss 429 had a refined suspension and handling that allowed drivers to harness all that power with precision.

Today, the Boss 429 is a rare find, and those lucky enough to come across one of these classic Ford Mustangs for sale can expect to pay a premium. Its scarcity and pedigree have made it a coveted piece of automotive history, solidifying its place as a collector's dream.

1967 Shelby GT500: A Legend on the Track

No list of the best classic Mustang models would be complete without mentioning the Shelby GT500. Built by the legendary Carroll Shelby, the GT500 debuted in 1967 and quickly became a favorite among performance car enthusiasts. Equipped with a massive 428-cubic-inch V8 engine, the GT500 produced around 355 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful Mustangs of its time. 

What truly set the Shelby GT500 apart, however, was its blend of race-car engineering and street performance, a combination that made it equally at home on the track and in everyday driving.

The Shelby GT500 is still a highly sought-after vehicle today, with examples of classic Ford Mustangs for sale often fetching top dollar. It’s a testament to the car’s enduring legacy that modern iterations of the GT500 continue to be produced, keeping the Shelby name alive in the Mustang lineup.

1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1: The Ultimate Balance

For many Mustang enthusiasts, the 1970 Mach 1 represents the perfect balance between performance, comfort, and style. This model was available with a variety of powerful engines, including the much-lauded 428 Cobra Jet V8, which produced 335 horsepower. With its aggressive front end, distinctive hood scoop, and sports stripe detailing, the Mach 1 looked as fast as it drove.

The Mach 1 is one of the best classic Mustang models for drivers who want both high performance and a touch of luxury. Its combination of raw muscle and refined design has made it a definite favorite among Mustang collectors, with enthusiasts scouring the market for pristine examples of this classic Ford car.

1968 Ford Mustang GT 390: The “Bullitt” Legend

Perhaps one of the most famous Mustangs ever produced, the 1968 GT 390 owes much of its fame to its role in the classic Steve McQueen film Bullitt. The movie’s car chase scene, featuring McQueen behind the wheel of a Highland Green Mustang GT 390, has become the stuff of legend. 

But even without its cinematic fame, the 1968 GT 390 is a fantastic car in its own right. Powered by a 390-cubic-inch V8 engine, it delivered 325 horsepower and more than enough torque to make it a serious contender on the streets.

Its role in the film and its performance pedigree have guaranteed that the GT 390 remains one of the most iconic and best classic Mustang models ever. Finding a classic Ford Mustang for sale like this today is a rare and exciting opportunity for collectors and fans alike.

1971 Ford Mustang Boss 351: A Rare Powerhouse

The 1971 Boss 351 is often overlooked in favor of its more famous cousins like the Boss 429 and Shelby GT500, but it certainly deserves a place among the best classic Mustang models. Equipped with a 351-cubic-inch V8 engine, the Boss 351 delivered 330 horsepower and was praised for its handling and speed. 

It was one of the most powerful small-block Mustangs ever produced and was designed to take on the likes of the Chevrolet Camaro Z28.

Despite being produced for only one year, the Boss 351 has carved out a niche among Mustang aficionados. Rare and highly collectible, finding one of these classic Ford cars in good condition is a challenge, but it’s a challenge that many enthusiasts are willing to take on.

1966 Ford Mustang Convertible: The Open-Air Classic

The 1966 Mustang Convertible is one of the most beloved classic Ford cars, representing the height of the Mustang’s early popularity. With its sleek design and retractable soft top, the convertible model epitomized freedom and fun. 

Although it didn’t offer the same high performance as the GT or Shelby models, it provided an unbeatable combination of style, comfort, and moderate power.

The 1966 Mustang Convertible became a symbol of the carefree spirit of the 1960s, making it one of the best classic Mustang models for collectors who value aesthetics as much as performance. Whether cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway or simply turning heads at a local car show, the 1966 Mustang Convertible remains a timeless piece of American car history.

1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 428 Super Cobra Jet: Raw Power Refined

While the Mach 1 is already considered one of the most iconic classic Ford Mustangs, the 1969 Mach 1 equipped with the 428 Super Cobra Jet takes things to a whole new level. This variation produced an incredible 335 horsepower and was fitted with a Drag Pack option that included a functional hood scoop and additional cooling systems for serious high-speed runs. 

Its strong engine and refined handling made it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts, earning its reputation as one of the best classic Mustang models ever produced.

For those who appreciate the raw power of a classic Ford car, the Mach 1 428 Super Cobra Jet remains a top-tier example of what the Mustang can offer. Examples of this car in pristine condition are increasingly rare, but they stand as monuments to an era where performance was supreme.

1973 Ford Mustang Convertible: The Last of the First Generation

As the last model year of the first-generation Mustangs, the 1973 Mustang Convertible holds a special place in the hearts of many enthusiasts. Though it may not have been the fastest or most powerful of the best classic Mustang models, it represented the end of an era before the Mustang transitioned into a new design language for the 1974 model year. 

The 1973 Mustang featured a larger, more refined body, but it retained the essence of the original pony car DNA that made the Mustang a household name.

The convertible model, in particular, offered a perfect balance of style and open-air driving pleasure. With its large grille, chrome bumper, and optional V8 engine, the 1973 Mustang was a fitting farewell to the first-generation Mustang. 

For many, this model represents the last gasp of true classic muscle before the oil crisis and emissions regulations of the 1970s forced automakers to dial down performance.

While it’s not as common as earlier models, the 1973 Mustang Convertible is still a highly desirable vehicle for collectors and is often found among the listings of classic Ford Mustangs for sale. Its status as the final first-gen Mustang makes it a sought-after vehicle for those looking to capture a piece of Mustang history.

Gateway Classic Cars and Your Dream Mustang Awaits

At Gateway Classic Cars, we know that finding the perfect best classic Mustang is about more than just owning a car - it’s about connecting with a piece of automotive history. Whether you're interested in the high-performance thrills of a Boss 429 or the timeless elegance of a 1973 Mustang Convertible, we offer a vast array of classic Ford Mustangs for sale that cater to every enthusiast’s dream. 

Our extensive inventory, spanning over 20 locations in the United States, means that your ideal Mustang is waiting for you.

If you're ready to take the next step in owning one of these legendary classic Ford cars, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.