The original base price of the 1965 Ford Mustang was $2,368. That low starting price helped Ford position the Mustang as an attractive, sporty car that ordinary American buyers could afford.
Ford unveiled the Mustang in April 1964 at the New York World’s Fair, but marketed the car as a 1965 model. Its formula combined a long hood, short rear deck, compact dimensions, and extensive options derived from existing Ford components. Buyers could choose between coupe and convertible body styles, different engines, transmissions, interiors, and convenience features.
The $2,368 figure applied to the base Mustang, before optional equipment, delivery charges, and other additions. Many buyers paid more because popular extras quickly raised the final price. The Mustang’s affordability was central to its appeal, especially among younger customers and the growing postwar Baby Boom generation.
Ford expected to sell about 150,000 Mustangs in the first year, but demand far exceeded that estimate. More than 418,000 were sold during the first year, establishing the Mustang as the defining early example of the pony-car category.