The Ford Mustang debuted
as a simple sports car based on the compact Falcon to lower production costs.
Originally named for the P-51 Mustang fighter plane, but preliminary allusions were
made to the horse. The better recognized horse motif thereafter became the emblem
for the Mustang.
This pony car class that the Ford Mustang
helped create is the only class of muscle car that still exists today.
In mid 1964, Ford introduced a sporty 2+2
fastback body style to go along with the hardtop coupe and convertible. Enthusiasts
also cheered the new "K-code" 271 bhp 289 cid V8 that finally put some performance to
match the Mustang's good looks.
