What name did Ford use for the second-generation Mustang?

Ford used the name Mustang II for the second-generation Mustang. The car was introduced for the 1974 model year as a smaller, lighter pony car shaped by fuel shortages, stricter regulations, and changing consumer demand.

Ford launched it on September 21, 1973, just as the Arab oil embargo began. Lee Iacocca wanted a more economical Mustang with a high-quality, compact design, and the new car returned closer to the original Mustang’s dimensions. It was offered as a two-door notchback coupe and a three-door hatchback.

The name can cause confusion because Ford had also shown a 1963 Mustang II concept car, years before the production model. The production Mustang II ran from 1973 through 1978, covering the 1974–1978 model years. It sold more than 1.1 million units and helped preserve the Mustang name until the Fox-platform third generation arrived for 1979.