302-Powered 1966 Ford Mustang Hardtop

Description

Ford general manager Lee Iacocca chose “Mustang” over the planned name “Cougar” because “it had the excitement of wide-open spaces.” It was a great call — Ford’s small wild pony captured the imagination of the buying public like no automobile before or since. Unveiled on 17 April 1964 in Hardtop and Convertible versions (the Fastback 2+2 body arrived in August 1964), it was simply the greatest new car launch in history.   

The second-year 1966 model saw several updates and refinements from the original design. The exterior featured a new grille styling with a floating Mustang emblem, revised side scoops, and updated taillights. These subtle changes gave the ’66 Mustang a fresh look while maintaining its original appeal. The base engine was a 200 cubic-inch inline-six, but Ford provided several V8 options for those seeking more power. 

This 1966 Mustang Hardtop was originally equipped with a 289 cubic-inch V8, but somewhere along the line it was swapped for a 302 cu-in V8, which wasn’t available from the factory until 1968.  

Highlights 

• Three-speed C4 automatic transmission

• Upgrades during current ownership include: 

  • 302 cu-in V8 (210-230 hp) replaced original 289 V8 

  • Wilwood master cylinder kit 

  • Refinished in Classic Red paint 

  • Halo headlights 

  • Scott Drake replacement grille (vertical stripes/running Pony) 

  • 15-inch Scott Drake wheels 

  • BFGoodrich Radial T/A P225/60R15 99S tires 

  • Disc brakes all around 

  • New black carpet 

  • New black vinyl bucket seats up front with red stitching, classic black seats in rear 

  • Upgraded sound system with new Boss screen stereo and speakers 

  • New doors handles, locks, rearview mirror, and panels 

  • New headliner 

  • Upgraded gas cap

• The chassis number (6R07C237863) decodes as: 

  • 6 – 1966 model year 

  • R – San Jose, California, assembly plant 

  • 07 – Two-door hardtop 

  • C – 289 two-barrel carb V8 

  • 237863 – Sequential production number

• The data plate decodes as: 

  • Body: 65A – Coupe with standard interior 

  • Paint: T – Candyapple Red 

  • Trim: 125 – Red Crinkle Vinyl 

  • Date: 25G – 25 July 

  • DSO: 71 – Los Angeles 

  • Axle: 6 – 2.80:1 standard differential 

  • Trans: 6 - C4 automatic transmission 

Features 

• Red three-spoke Mustang steering wheel 

• Power steering 

• Seat belts 

• Red dash with 140 mph speedometer and odometer with gauges for fuel level, oil pressure, amps, and coolant temperature 

• Manual windows and locks 

Known Imperfections 

• Half-inch paint peel on the passenger front fender between 289 badge and bumper 

Included 

• Hood and side scoops for self-installation (for a more aggressive look) 

• Original A/C dash unit 

• Mustang floor mats 

Ownership History  

The California owner of this 1966 Ford Mustang Hardtop purchased on 26 October 2022 from a family in neighboring Orange County. He has restored and customized the vehicle to give it a more modern look.