1968 Ford Mustang, a name synonymous with automotive excellence and cultural influence, emerged onto the scene during a period of immense social and economic change. This iconic muscle car, a testament to American ingenuity, captured the hearts of enthusiasts with its sleek design, powerful engine options, and undeniable charisma.
The 1968 Mustang, with its signature fastback styling and performance prowess, became a symbol of the era, reflecting the spirit of freedom and rebellion that defined the late 1960s.
The release of the 1968 Mustang coincided with a surge in popularity for sporty automobiles, a trend fueled by a growing middle class and a yearning for personal expression. The model’s design, a departure from its predecessors, embraced a more aggressive and refined aesthetic, incorporating sharp lines and bold curves that accentuated its athletic stance.
The 1968 Mustang’s arrival solidified its place as a true icon, marking a pivotal moment in the history of the automobile.
Design and Styling: 1968 Ford Mustang
The 1968 Ford Mustang represented a significant evolution in design, building upon the success of its predecessors while introducing fresh styling cues that solidified its iconic status. It marked a shift in the Mustang’s aesthetic, moving away from the somewhat conservative lines of the earlier models and embracing a more aggressive and modern look.
Evolution of Design
The 1968 Mustang’s design evolved significantly from the first generation, which debuted in 1964. The 1965-1966 models introduced a fastback coupe body style, which became a defining feature of the Mustang. However, the 1967 model year brought a more rounded and softer appearance.
The 1968 model year, however, brought a more aggressive and angular design language, with sharper lines and a more pronounced grille.
The 1968 Ford Mustang, a classic muscle car known for its sleek design and powerful engine, was a symbol of the American automotive industry’s innovation. While the Mustang represented a more sporty and youthful approach, the 1957 Ford Galaxie exemplified the elegance and luxury of the era.
Both models, though vastly different in their target audience, solidified Ford’s reputation for producing iconic vehicles that captured the spirit of their respective times.
Design Elements Contributing to Iconic Status, 1968 Ford Mustang
The 1968 Mustang’s iconic status can be attributed to several design elements:
- Fastback Coupe Body Style:The fastback coupe body style, introduced in 1965, became a defining feature of the Mustang. Its sleek and aerodynamic profile contributed to the car’s sporty and stylish appearance.
- Aggressive Grille:The 1968 Mustang featured a larger and more prominent grille with a horizontal bar design, adding to its aggressive and imposing look. This grille design, with its distinctive shape and chrome accents, became instantly recognizable.
- Sculpted Body Lines:The 1968 Mustang’s body lines were more sculpted and pronounced than previous models. These sharp lines and angles created a more dynamic and muscular appearance, highlighting the car’s sporty nature.
- Taillights:The taillights were another distinctive feature of the 1968 Mustang. The horizontal, rectangular taillights with their unique shape and placement became instantly recognizable.
Trim Levels and Styling Features
The 1968 Mustang was available in several trim levels, each with its own unique styling features.
The 1968 Ford Mustang, with its iconic fastback design and powerful V8 engine, captured the hearts of car enthusiasts. While the ’68 Mustang represented a peak of muscle car performance, the classic lines of a 1956 Ford Street Rod offer a different kind of appeal, blending vintage charm with modern performance.
The ’68 Mustang remains a timeless symbol of American automotive ingenuity, while the ’56 Street Rod showcases the artistry of customization and the enduring allure of classic Ford design.
- Standard Mustang:The base model featured a simple grille, smaller wheels, and a more understated interior. It was designed for those who wanted a more affordable and practical Mustang.
- GT:The GT trim level offered a more performance-oriented package. It featured a larger grille, special badging, a sport suspension, and a more powerful engine.
- Mach 1:The Mach 1 was the top-of-the-line performance model. It featured a unique front end with a blacked-out grille and hood scoop, a rear spoiler, and a special interior with bucket seats and a center console.
- California Special:This trim level was designed to appeal to California buyers and featured a unique exterior and interior styling. It included a special grille, rocker panel moldings, and a special interior with a unique color scheme.
Performance and Engine Options
The 1968 Ford Mustang offered a range of powerful engine options, catering to a variety of driving preferences and performance desires. From the standard six-cylinder engine to the potent V8s, each engine provided a distinct driving experience, making the Mustang a versatile and exciting car.
Engine Options and Performance Characteristics
The 1968 Mustang was available with a selection of engines, each offering unique performance characteristics:
- 200 cu in (3.3 L) I6:This base engine was a reliable and fuel-efficient option, generating 120 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque. It was perfect for everyday driving and provided a comfortable and economical experience.
- 289 cu in (4.7 L) V8:This engine was a popular choice for its balance of power and fuel efficiency. It produced 200 hp and 282 lb-ft of torque, offering a more spirited driving experience than the six-cylinder engine.
- 302 cu in (4.9 L) V8:This engine was a performance upgrade, delivering 220 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. It provided a noticeable increase in acceleration and responsiveness, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts.
- 390 cu in (6.4 L) V8:This engine was the top-of-the-line option, delivering a powerful 320 hp and 427 lb-ft of torque. It was available in the GT and Cobra Jet models and offered blistering acceleration and a thrilling driving experience.
Impact of the 390 cu in Engine
The introduction of the 390 cubic inch engine in 1968 marked a significant milestone in the Mustang’s performance evolution. This engine provided a substantial power boost, propelling the Mustang into a new realm of performance. It was particularly notable in the GT and Cobra Jet models, transforming them into true muscle cars capable of delivering exhilarating acceleration and top speed.
The 1968 Ford Mustang, a classic muscle car, represented a shift in design philosophy compared to its predecessors. While earlier models emphasized sleekness, the ’68 Mustang embraced a more aggressive aesthetic. This design shift was perhaps inspired by the success of models like the 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 , which showcased a powerful, imposing presence.
The 1968 Mustang, however, took this concept further, becoming a symbol of American muscle car culture that continues to captivate enthusiasts today.
Transmission Options
The 1968 Mustang offered a range of transmission options, each influencing the driving experience in distinct ways:
- 3-speed manual:This was the standard transmission option, offering a simple and straightforward driving experience. It was well-suited for everyday driving and provided a basic level of control over the engine’s power delivery.
- 4-speed manual:This transmission option offered improved performance and control, allowing for more aggressive driving. It provided a more engaging driving experience, particularly when paired with the larger V8 engines.
- 3-speed automatic:This transmission option provided convenience and ease of driving, particularly in urban environments. It was well-suited for cruising and offered a smooth and effortless driving experience.
- Cruise-O-Matic:This was a more advanced automatic transmission option, offering improved performance and fuel efficiency. It provided a smoother and more responsive driving experience than the standard 3-speed automatic.
Interior and Features
The 1968 Mustang offered a comfortable and stylish interior, reflecting the era’s focus on both performance and practicality. While the overall design was focused on functionality, the Mustang also incorporated features that enhanced the driving experience and provided comfort for both driver and passengers.
Interior Design and Materials
The interior of the 1968 Mustang was designed with a driver-centric approach. The dashboard was sculpted with a distinctive horizontal layout, incorporating a large speedometer and a tachometer prominently positioned in front of the driver. The instrument panel was generally functional, with controls laid out in a logical manner for easy access.
The interior featured vinyl upholstery as standard, with optional cloth and leather options available. The overall feel was one of sporty elegance, with a focus on functionality and durability.
Available Features and Options
The 1968 Mustang offered a wide range of features and options to enhance both comfort and convenience.
- Air Conditioning:This was a popular option, especially in warmer climates, providing a welcome respite from the heat.
- Power Steering:This feature made maneuvering the Mustang easier, especially in urban environments.
- Power Brakes:Power brakes provided enhanced stopping power, contributing to overall safety and control.
- Radio:AM radios were standard, while FM radios and 8-track players were available as options, offering entertainment and connectivity on the road.
- Tinted Glass:Tinted windows offered privacy and helped to reduce glare, enhancing comfort for passengers.
Comparison to Contemporaries
Compared to its contemporaries, the 1968 Mustang offered a relatively spacious and comfortable interior. While some competitors, such as the Chevrolet Camaro and the Plymouth Barracuda, offered similar levels of comfort, the Mustang’s focus on driver-centric design and its wide range of available features made it a compelling choice for many buyers.
Concluding Remarks
The 1968 Ford Mustang, more than just a car, became a cultural phenomenon, its influence extending beyond the realm of automobiles. Its appearances in movies, television shows, and music videos solidified its status as a symbol of American cool and an enduring testament to the power of automotive design.
The 1968 Mustang, a legacy of innovation and style, continues to captivate enthusiasts today, its timeless appeal a testament to its enduring influence on the automotive world.