1965 Ford Mustang
The 1965 Ford Mustang did not see too many changes from the 1964 Mustang. The biggest change was the introduction of the new Fastback model.
One of the new performance changes was the 101-hp 170ci six cylinder engine was replaced by the 200ci six cylinder engine rated at 120-hp. The 164-hp 260ci V-8 engine was replaced by the 289ci 2 valve engine.
Other changes to the 1965 Ford Mustang included replacing the old generator with an alternator, the oil filter was relocated, smaller horns, a power steering pump with reservoir, and a wire ring gas cap.
The Mustang GT options were also introduced in 1965. Mustang GT options included two available 4 barrel engines, larger sway bars, 5 dial instrument panel, disc brakes, dual exhaust, better ratio for steering, fog lights mounted on the grille, and lower side stripes on the body.
Exterior remained mostly the same throughout the 1965 year.
Carroll Shelby also introduced his new version of the Ford Mustang in 1965. Painted white with blue racing style stripes, the new fastback model Mustang was name by Shelby the GT350. The use of a highly upgraded and modified 298ci V-8 engine, resulted in a powerful 306 hp.
The Shelby Mustang engine used a high rise manifold, a larger 4 barrel carburetor, and free flowing exhaust. With the increased horsepower produced by the GT350, the Shelby used the (Mustang optional) T-10 4 speed manual transmission standard.
The Mustangs rear axle was replaced with a stronger axle from the Ford Galaxie.
Suspension was upgraded with adjustable Koni shocks and the car stance was lowered with relocated mounting points. Front shock towers were made more rigid with the use of a steel bar connecting them. Rear traction bars were also used as an upgrade to the suspension. These features created a better handling car as opposed to the understeer the Mustang had.
Rear seats were removed and replaced with a fiberglass area which held the spare tire. The battery was relocated to the trunk area. 15″ wider alloy wheels with Goodyear tires were also used for more control.
The Mustang Shelby GT350 was also released for racing, under the name GT350R. The “R” model was around 300 pounds lighter than the original street version. Suspension was tuned for racing. A fiberglass air dam replaced the front bumper to increase air flow to the engine. The engine was also upgraded with performance in mind, bringing the engine to 360 hp.
