Best Classic Ford Mustangs in History

Few cars carry the charm and muscle of the classic Mustang. Born in the 1960s, the Mustang quickly became a symbol of freedom, power, and American design. Over the years, several pre-1981 models have stood out not just for their speed or looks, but for the stories they tell. 

From racing legends to movie stars, these Mustangs have earned their place in history. In this article, we’ll explore seven of the best classic Ford Mustangs you can still admire today. Some are even available for collectors with deep enough pockets.

1978 Ford Mustang King Cobra

Current Market Value: $18,000–$32,000

The King Cobra marked the end of the Mustang II era with a bold and flashy design. Only around 4,300 units were made, making it rare today. The Mustang classic was created during a time when muscle cars struggled due to fuel regulations and emissions laws.

Still, Ford gave the King Cobra a snake decal, V8 power, and sporty handling. NASCAR legend Kenny Schrader once called this classic Ford Mustang one of the coolest oddballs of the ‘70s. It may not be the fastest, but it’s full of personality and old-school style.

READ ALSO: Best Popular Cars of the 1960s

1968 Ford Mustang California Special

Current Market Value: $30,000–$55,000

Inspired by Shelby styling and only sold in California, this special-edition Mustang featured a rear spoiler, side scoops, and blackout grille. Just over 4,000 were made. What makes it iconic isn’t just its look—it’s the vibe. 

Back in the day, it was called the “surfer’s Mustang,” often seen cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway. Its relaxed yet confident style perfectly captured California culture. Today, collectors chase it for both its beauty and its regional charm.

1969 Mach 1

Current Market Value: $45,000–$75,000

The Mach 1 was more than just a performance upgrade, it was a Mustang built for dominance. With several engine choices, including the powerful Cobra Jet V8, it beat the GT model in sales. In fact, Ford sold over 72,000 Mach 1s in 1969 alone. 

Many car enthusiasts remember the Mach 1 for its Shaker hood scoop and sport-stripe design. It became a favorite among drag racers and was featured in classic car shows nationwide. Today, a well-kept Mach 1 still turns heads at any car meet.

READ ALSO: Top 10 Classic Car Shows and Events

1967 Ford Mustang GT500

Current Market Value: $150,000–$250,000+

The GT500 was Carroll Shelby’s answer to the rising need for serious street performance. This was not just a Mustang—it was a beast. It had racing DNA, a thunderous big-block engine, and aggressive styling. 

Only a few thousand were made, making it a collector’s dream. It also appeared in the famous 2000 movie “Gone in 60 Seconds,” under the nickname “Eleanor,” giving it pop culture fame. If you ever see one in person, consider it a privilege—it’s among the holy grails of muscle cars.

1969 Ford Mustang BOSS 429

Current Market Value: $225,000–$350,000+

The BOSS 429 wasn’t built just for show—it was born for NASCAR. Ford needed to homologate the powerful 429 engine for racing, so they tucked it into only 859 Mustangs. The result was a rare and aggressive car that could compete with anything on the road. 

Every BOSS 429 was hand-built and modified to fit the oversized engine. Stories of it outrunning Corvettes and challenging Mopar monsters are still told today. If rarity and raw power are your thing, this is your Mustang.

1965 Shelby GT350

Current Market Value: $400,000–$550,000+

This was the Mustang that made Shelby a household name. With racing parts and a no-nonsense setup, the GT350 dominated tracks and streets alike. Only 562 street-legal units were made in 1965, and they all came in Wimbledon White with blue racing stripes. 

Drivers loved its precise handling and roaring engine. It was often seen at SCCA races, sometimes beating much bigger cars. Today, it's one of the most valuable classic Mustangs ever built, and for good reason.

1968 Ford Mustang Bullitt

Current Market Value: $80,000–$150,000+

This Mustang became iconic thanks to the 1968 film Bullitt, where Steve McQueen chased a Dodge Charger through San Francisco’s hills in one of the greatest movie car chases ever filmed. Ford released a special Highland Green fastback with minimal badges to match the film car. 

While it was visually simple, it packed serious performance. In 2020, the original movie car was sold at auction for $3.74 million, proving just how powerful film and Mustang nostalgia can be.

Conclusion

Classic Mustang cars produced before 1981 are not just old cars—they're history in motion. Each one has a story behind it, whether it was a racing car on a circuit, an actor in a movie, or just cruising down America's highways. 

From the high-performance GT500 to the laid-back California Special, they still command attention today. Whether you're a Mustang lover or collector, these seven best classic Mustang cars represent why it's an icon.

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