In the late 1950s and early 1960s, American car manufacturers were churning out big, bulky vehicles aimed at families. However, a new generation of drivers was emerging. Ford describes them as baby boomers who wanted something different and was the first car manufacturer to study what they wanted. The result was the Ford Mustang, which spawned a whole new class of vehicles known as pony cars. By the time they were putting the 1967 Ford Mustang into production, the Mustang was already a well-established story. The 1968 Mustang, like the 1967 model year, incorporated some of the elements that had been in the lineage since its inception, and Ford refreshed it, enhancing its desirability. Is the 1968 Ford Mustang base model one of the best classic Mustangs? Read on.
Ford offered a range of engines for the 1968 Ford Mustang, allowing buyers to choose based on their budgets and performance needs. The base model came with a 3.3-liter inline-six engine producing an estimated 115 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque, sent to the rear wheels via a 3-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission. That might not be enough to give you even the modest thrills, but engine swapping is an option, as the chassis was revised to accommodate larger engines that were available on Ford's options list at the time. However, that would increase the car's weight from its original 2,800 pounds. Nonetheless, the top speed in a 1968 Ford Mustang base with a healthy engine should top out at 115 mph, and 0-60 mph should take roughly 10.0 seconds.
The 1967 update included an interior refresh across the Mustang lineup, enhancing the cabin's appeal and safety. Like other trim levels, the 1968 Ford Mustang base model features a woodgrain dash, center console, and door trims. Where wood is not present, vinyl or leather similar to that on the seats is used. Buyers had various color and upholstery options, including 16 brilliant Super Diamond Lustre Enamel finishes. Still, most base models have black upholstery throughout the cabin, including the rear seats. A distinct feature compared to previous model years is the 1968 Mustang's energy-absorbing two-spoke steering wheel, enhancing safety in the absence of airbags at the time. Additionally, Ford replaced the previous lap belts with shoulder belts.
On the outside, the 1968 Ford Mustang remained largely similar to previous model years despite the facelift, with only subtle differences noticeable to the trained eye. For example, the galloping Mustang emblem on the grille doesn't have horizontal support bars and is bolted onto the grille, resulting in a cleaner design. Still at the front, the Mustang lettering atop the hood was removed for the 1967 model year; therefore, is not present on the 1968 Ford Mustang. If you love an uncluttered aesthetic, you might find joy in that. Moving on to the side, the side scoops introduced in 1968 add a more aggressive and muscular touch. Higher trim levels received more ornaments. The rear end saw the biggest change as the convex taillights were replaced with newly designed concave taillights, which continue to elicit mixed opinions from Mustang enthusiasts.
Calling the technology in classic Ford Mustang models "basic" would be an overstatement compared to modern cars. However, car manufacturers have increasingly emphasized technology over the driving experience as time progressed. This shift makes classic cars, in this case, the 1968 Ford Mustang, more appealing for those who appreciate a purer, more engaging driving experience. Inside, the 1968 base model Mustang only came with an AM radio complemented by a single speaker. Air conditioning was optional, but you'll be lucky if the heater works. There were no other safety features besides the steering wheel and seatbelts, and the brakes are all-round drums. Discs were only added at the front in later models.
In today's market, 1968 Ford Mustang prices can range dramatically from surprisingly affordable to eye-wateringly expensive. However, 1968 base model examples mostly stay on the cheaper side. Ideally, you shouldn't spend more than $50,000, which can decrease depending on the car's condition, history, and other factors. At Exotic Car Trader, classics make up a major part of our listings, and if you're looking for a 1968 Ford Mustang, we've got you covered. We also have a variety of other Fords listed among our Ford Listings.
The 1968 Ford Mustang base model might not be powerful, but it's very much a Mustang like other iterations and lives up to the Mustang heritage. Its major advantage is its affordability, making it an appealing option if you're looking for a blank canvas for a muscle car project. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! Whether captivated by its iconic exterior lines, classic wood and leather interior, or the thrill of driving a piece of American automotive history, the 1968 Mustang offers all that and more for those who appreciate it.
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