The Ford Flathead V8: The Engine That Put Power in the People’s Hands

The Iconic 1965 Ford Mustang The Ford Mustang, a name that resonates with freedom, power, and style, made its debut in 1964 but it was the 1965 model year that solidified its legend in automotive history. Often celebrated as the car that started the "pony car" era, the 1965 Mustang was not just a vehicle; it was a cultural phenomenon. Design and Style The 1965 Mustang was an immediate hit due to its sleek, long-hood, short-deck design crafted by Lee Iacocca's team. The car's profile was distinctly sporty with a chrome grille, tri-bar taillights, and a fastback version that added an aggressive, almost European flair. Available in coupe, convertible, and fastback body styles, the Mustang could be tailored to suit various tastes, from the conservative to the audacious. Interior options ranged from luxurious with bucket seats and a console to more basic vinyl benches, catering to a broad demographic. Engine Options What made the Mustang particularly versatile was its range of engine choices. At the base, there was a 170 cubic inch inline-six that was economical for daily driving. For those seeking more thrill, Ford offered a trio of V8 options: 200 hp 289 V8 with a two-barrel carburetor. 225 hp 289 V8 with a four-barrel carburetor: This version delivered more punch, enhancing the car's sporty character. 271 hp GT package with a 289 Hi-Po (High Performance): This was the choice for enthusiasts who wanted to experience the raw power under the hood, especially when paired with a 4-speed manual transmission Performance and Popular Culture The Mustang wasn't just about looks and power; it was about accessibility. Priced at around $2,368 for the base model, it was relatively affordable, allowing a wide array of Americans to own a piece of automotive flair. Its introduction timing was impeccable, aligning with the youth culture of the 60s, which celebrated speed, freedom, and individuality. The Mustang found its way into movies, TV shows, and became synonymous with the American dream of the open road Legacy Over the decades, the 1965 Mustang has not only retained its iconic status but has also seen its value appreciate significantly among collectors. The model year is often cited for its pivotal role in shaping car design trends, influencing everything from the muscle car era to modern sports cars. Today, a well-preserved 1965 Mustang, especially in its GT or Shelby versions, can fetch high prices at auctions, reflecting not just nostalgia but appreciation for its design and engineering prowess The 1965 Ford Mustang was more than a car; it was a symbol of a transformative period in American automotive history, embodying the spirit of an era where style, performance, and accessibility collided to create something truly timeless. Whether you're a car enthusiast or not, the Mustang's impact on culture, design, and the automotive industry is undeniable, making it a forever celebrated piece of Americana.

YOUR CLASSIC FORD PARTS STORE If you own a classic Ford, you’re used to dependability. You go out, you start the vehicle, and it runs. That’s the way it should be. After all, when it’s an older Ford, it has longevity built right into it. Sometimes, though, things will take a toll on the best ride you’ve ever owned. Could be the weather - or a little ding or two that happens when someone isn’t paying attention and they run into you. Whatever the reason, if you’ve got something on your list that you need for your old Ford, you can find it at a C&G Ford Parts. You’ll find thousands upon thousands of parts that can get your Ford in the best shape, even if you own one from the late 1970's. That’s sure to give you peace of mind right there. Say you’ve got a 1979 Ford F150 pickup. The jet-black custom paint on it just glints in the sunlight. Your truck is the envy of the neighborhood and everywhere else that you take it. You worked hard for that truck and you deserve to show it off. Taking a friend out for a round or two of golf, you park the truck in the lot carefully away from other cars. But you know how it goes. There always has to be someone who parks right up on you. Only this time, they broke your driver’s side mirror up pretty good and took off without having the decency of letting anyone know. When you do a thorough examination, you see that the door is fine, but the mirror can’t be repaired - the damage is too bad. It’s got to be replaced. Besides making you mad, you’re now faced with the task of figuring out where you’re going to go to get one like it. No worries, because you can get the part you need right at a classic Ford parts store, C&G Ford Parts to be exact. Places that have the stock you’re looking for can easily cover getting you that mirror in no time. Best of all, getting that replacement mirror in an exact match for your truck isn’t going to cost you every penny you’ve got in the bank. At C&G Ford parts, not only will you find what you need when you need it, but you’ll find it for a reasonable price as well. You can’t always prevent bad drivers from doing foolish things and ending up damaging your Ford. But you can rest assured knowing that a C&G Ford parts has got you covered. So take that truck out for a spin any time. They’ll be waiting on you when you need them.

Tracing back the gears of time, the story of Ford's iconic "P-R-N-D-L" (affectionately pronounced "prindle") starts in the golden era of automotive innovation. This simple, yet memorable acronym represents the sequence of gears on an automatic transmission: Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, and Low. It's a nostalgic nod to the heyday of American car culture, beginning its journey in the 1950s. In 1951, Ford revolutionized their lineup by introducing the first "automatic" transmission in its cars. This was the birth of the P-R-N-D-L sequence, a groundbreaking innovation at the time. Imagine the delight of drivers who, for the first time, could shift gears with a smooth slide of the lever, just once – a far cry from the manual efforts of the past. It should also be noted that unlike todays automatics the early automatics would only start in neutral! The 1950s and 60s were a golden age for Ford. Cars were more than mere transport; they symbolized freedom, style, and the American dream. The P-R-N-D-L was an integral part of this. It wasn't just about the ease of shifting gears; it was about the experience. Each letter was a step in the ritual of driving, a connection between human and machine that modern digital interfaces can't replicate. Fast forward to today, and while cars have evolved with dizzying technology and efficiency, the charm of the classic Ford P-R-N-D-L endures. For enthusiasts and collectors, operating this gearshift isn't just a mechanical action; it's a trip down memory lane, a tactile piece of history that harkens back to the days of chrome, tailfins, and the open road. In essence, the P-R-N-D-L of classic Ford cars is more than just a gear sequence. It's a symbol of a bygone era, a testament to Ford's pioneering spirit, and an enduring part of America's automotive legacy.