1966 Ford Mustang Convertible Driving Project

Make: Ford

Model: Mustang

Type: Convertible

Seller Type: Private

Build Sheet

VIN: 6T08A119070
302ci V8 engine
C4 automatic transmission
GT350-style steel and fiberglass hood
GT350 fiberglass side scoops
14-inch Magnum 500 wheels
New radial tires
Front disc brake conversion
"Shelby drop" front suspension
New power convertible top pump and cylinders
Cobra-branded valve covers
Rebuilt Autolite 4100 carburetor
New dual exhaust system with headers
Complete new interior upholstery kit
New fuel tank and full vehicle wiring harness

Wrench Report

By Chris Esparza

RestoMods Head Mechanic. 20 year classic car mechanic & builder.

This '66 Mustang Convertible project is a classic "finish line" car for someone who wants to skip the heavy metal work and get straight to the styling. It's been set up as a tribute to the ultra-rare Shelby GT350 convertible prototypes, already featuring the correct steel-and-fiberglass hood and side scoops. The heavy lifting like the all-new wiring, refreshed suspension with a "Shelby drop," and a running 302ci V8 is already done. It's currently in primer, which is actually a blessing; it's a blank canvas where you can verify the metal work is solid before choosing your final color. It's a great place to pick up and finish the project just the way you want.

Description

This 1966 Ford Mustang Convertible was acquired by the seller in February 2025 as an unfinished project and has since been developed as a tribute to the original Shelby GT350 convertible prototypes. VIN stampings on the car authenticate it as a true convertible and not a conversion. The car features a replacement 302ci V8 and a C4 automatic transmission. While the metal work and major mechanical assemblies are complete, the vehicle requires final body prep, paint, a convertible top, and finishing trim. It is now offered as a running and driving project with various uninstalled parts and a clean New Jersey title by the private seller. The vehicle is located in Westwood, New Jersey.

The body has undergone extensive metal work and is currently in primer, requiring a final skim coat, blocking, and panel alignment before paint. GT350-style modifications include a Shelby-specification steel and fiberglass hood and fiberglass side scoops. New exterior components include chrome bumpers, door handles, mirrors, and a GT350-specific gas cap. The lighting system has been refreshed with new taillights, backup lights, and front turn signal assemblies. The power convertible top system has been updated with a new pump, cylinders, hoses, and wiring, though the top fabric itself is not included.

The 302ci V8 and C4 transmission were sourced from a 1979 model and is believed to have 60k miles on the powertrain. The engine is equipped with 1989-model cylinder heads, a rebuilt Autolite 4100 carburetor, and a period-correct intake manifold. Recent maintenance included the installation of a new rear main seal, oil pan, water pump, and dual-point distributor. The engine bay also features a new radiator, new headers feeding a dual exhaust system, and Cobra-branded valve covers. The C4 transmission received new shift linkage seals prior to installation.

The chassis features a refreshed suspension with a "Shelby drop" in the front and lowered rear leaf springs. The manual braking system was overhauled with a new master cylinder, replacement lines, front discs, and rear drums. The car rides on new 14" Magnum 500 wheels with Shelby center caps and new tires. A new fuel tank and all-new wiring throughout the vehicle were installed under current ownership.

The interior has been fitted with a complete new upholstery kit. While the major seating and carpeting components are in place, the car requires several finishing items to be completed. Uninstalled parts included in the sale consist of a GT350 side stripe kit, a top well liner, sun visors, window regulator handles, and a GT350 grille emblem. The "Carroll Shelby" insignia on the passenger side dash is a reproduction decal and not an original autograph. The seller notes that to complete the build, the next owner will need to source and install a grille, heater core, side glass, and a parking brake cable, and replace the windshield.