The base price of the original 1964½ Ford Mustang was $2,368. Ford introduced the car on April 17, 1964, at the New York World’s Fair, but marketed these early cars as 1965 models.
That price applied to the standard two-door hardtop with basic equipment. Buyers could also choose a convertible, add a V8, or select comfort and convenience options, so many showroom prices were higher. The Mustang’s low starting price was central to its appeal: it offered sporty styling and bucket-seat character without Corvette-level cost.
The car was based heavily on the compact Ford Falcon, which helped Ford keep development and production costs under control. More than 22,000 orders were reportedly taken on launch day, and first-year sales exceeded 418,000 units. The fastback joined the lineup in August 1964, expanding the Mustang’s performance image.