The 1968 Ford Mustang GT, a symbol of American automotive prowess, embodies the spirit of the turbulent 1960s. This iconic muscle car, with its powerful engine and striking design, captivated hearts and dominated the streets, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
From its sleek exterior to its roaring engine, the 1968 Mustang GT epitomized the era’s desire for speed, freedom, and style.
Released during a time of social upheaval and cultural change, the 1968 Mustang GT became more than just a car; it became a cultural icon, representing the American dream and the spirit of rebellion. This article delves into the historical context, design, performance, interior, and lasting impact of the 1968 Ford Mustang GT, exploring why it remains a cherished classic today.
Historical Context: 1968 Ford Mustang GT
was a pivotal year in American automotive history, marked by significant cultural and social shifts that deeply impacted the automotive industry. The muscle car market was at its peak, with fierce competition among manufacturers.
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT, with its iconic fastback design and powerful V8 engine, represented a pinnacle of American muscle car culture. While the Mustang GT roared onto the scene in the late 1960s, classic Ford models like the 1947 Ford 2-Dr Coupe offered a different kind of automotive charm, embodying the sleek, elegant styling of a bygone era.
Both cars, however, exemplify the enduring legacy of Ford’s craftsmanship and innovative spirit.
The Significance of 1968 in American Automotive History
saw the rise of performance-oriented vehicles, driven by the increasing demand for powerful and stylish cars. The muscle car era was in full swing, with manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, and Plymouth vying for dominance. The 1968 Ford Mustang GT was a prime example of this trend, representing the pinnacle of American muscle car design and engineering.
The Cultural and Social Landscape of the United States in 1968
was a year of significant social and political upheaval in the United States. The Vietnam War was raging, and the Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum. This turbulent environment influenced the automotive industry, with car manufacturers responding to the changing cultural landscape.
Muscle cars became symbols of freedom and rebellion, appealing to a younger generation seeking to express their individuality and challenge the status quo.
The Competitive Landscape of the Muscle Car Market in 1968
The muscle car market in 1968 was highly competitive, with several manufacturers vying for market share. Ford’s Mustang GT faced stiff competition from Chevrolet’s Camaro, Plymouth’s Barracuda, and AMC’s Javelin. Each manufacturer sought to differentiate its offerings by emphasizing performance, styling, and affordability.
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT stood out with its powerful 390 cubic inch V8 engine, distinctive styling, and relatively affordable price tag.
Design and Styling
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT, a true icon of the muscle car era, boasted a striking and aggressive design that captured the spirit of the times. It built upon the foundation laid by its predecessors, refining and enhancing its visual appeal to create a truly memorable automotive statement.
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT, a symbol of American muscle, showcased a powerful V8 engine and sleek design. While its legacy is rooted in the performance era, it’s interesting to note the stark contrast to the classic 1933 Ford Roadster , a vintage icon that embodied elegance and simplicity.
Both cars represent different chapters in Ford’s history, each contributing to the brand’s enduring reputation for innovation and style.
Exterior Design Features
The 1968 Mustang GT showcased a bold and distinctive exterior design. The front end featured a prominent grille with a horizontal chrome bar, flanked by twin headlights. The GT badge, proudly displayed on the grille, served as a clear indication of its performance capabilities.
The hood was sculpted with a prominent power bulge, hinting at the potent engine lurking beneath. The side profile was characterized by a long, flowing line that accentuated the car’s sporty stance. The rear end featured a fastback design with a sloping roofline that ended in a distinctive taillight assembly.
The GT trim included a unique rear spoiler, adding to the car’s aerodynamic profile and enhancing its performance.
Evolution of the Mustang’s Design
The 1968 Mustang GT marked a significant evolution from its earlier counterparts. The first-generation Mustang, introduced in 1964, was a compact and stylish coupe that captured the hearts of a generation. The second-generation Mustang, launched in 1967, featured a larger and more muscular design, laying the groundwork for the 1968 model.
The 1968 Mustang GT further refined this design, adding a more aggressive and sporty touch. The addition of the fastback design, inspired by the Ford Torino, provided a more aerodynamic and sleek profile. The GT package introduced distinctive styling cues, including the power bulge hood, rear spoiler, and unique badging, further enhancing the car’s performance image.
Color Options
The 1968 Mustang GT was available in a wide range of vibrant and eye-catching colors, allowing buyers to personalize their cars to reflect their individual tastes. Popular color choices included:
- Candyapple Red
- Wimbledon White
- Lime Gold
- Royal Maroon
- Silver Blue
Visual Comparison with Other Contemporary Muscle Cars
The 1968 Mustang GT stood out among its contemporaries in the muscle car segment. Compared to the Chevrolet Camaro, the Mustang GT featured a more rounded and flowing design, while the Camaro offered a more angular and aggressive appearance. The Plymouth Barracuda, another popular muscle car of the era, was known for its sporty and sleek profile.
However, the Mustang GT’s fastback design and distinctive styling cues, such as the power bulge hood and rear spoiler, set it apart from its rivals.
Performance and Engineering
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT was a performance-oriented car that offered a potent combination of power and handling. It was equipped with a powerful engine and a range of drivetrain options, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a thrilling driving experience.
Engine Specifications
The 1968 Mustang GT was powered by a 390 cubic inch (6.4 L) V8 engine. This engine was rated at 320 horsepower and 427 lb-ft of torque. It featured a four-barrel carburetor and a dual exhaust system. The engine was designed to deliver strong acceleration and smooth power delivery.
Transmission Options
The 1968 Mustang GT was available with a choice of three transmissions:
- A three-speed manual transmission was standard equipment.
- A four-speed manual transmission was an optional extra.
- A three-speed automatic transmission was also available as an option.
The four-speed manual transmission was the most popular choice among performance-oriented drivers, as it allowed for greater control and engagement.
Handling and Performance
The 1968 Mustang GT was known for its agile handling and responsive performance. It featured a solid suspension system, with independent front suspension and a live rear axle. The GT model was also equipped with power steering and disc brakes, which improved handling and braking performance.
The car’s low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution contributed to its excellent handling characteristics.
Performance Comparison with Other Muscle Cars
The 1968 Mustang GT was a formidable performer in the muscle car segment. It competed directly with other popular models such as the Chevrolet Camaro SS, the Plymouth Barracuda, and the Dodge Challenger. The Mustang GT’s engine and drivetrain offered competitive acceleration and top speed, while its handling and braking performance were considered among the best in its class.
Interior and Features
The 1968 Mustang GT’s interior was a blend of sportiness and practicality, reflecting the car’s dual nature as a performance machine and a daily driver. The design emphasized driver-focused ergonomics, with a straightforward layout and easy-to-use controls.
Interior Design and Materials, 1968 Ford Mustang GT
The interior of the 1968 Mustang GT featured a combination of vinyl and cloth upholstery, with optional leather seating available for a more luxurious feel. The dashboard was designed with a driver-centric approach, featuring a large speedometer and tachometer, along with smaller gauges for fuel, oil pressure, and temperature.
The instrument panel was typically finished in black or woodgrain, adding to the car’s sporty aesthetic. The steering wheel was a three-spoke design, offering a good grip and a sporty feel.
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT, a classic muscle car, represented a pivotal point in automotive history. While it embodied the spirit of the ’60s, the evolution of the Mustang continued into the ’80s, with the 1988 Ford Mustang introducing a new generation of design and performance.
This shift in the Mustang’s aesthetic and mechanical features showcased Ford’s commitment to innovation and its ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences, ensuring the Mustang’s enduring legacy.
Available Interior Options and Features
The 1968 Mustang GT offered a range of interior options to personalize the driving experience. These included:
- Power steering: This feature made maneuvering the car easier, especially in city driving.
- Power brakes: This option improved stopping performance, offering a more confident braking experience.
- Air conditioning: This feature provided comfort during hot weather, making long drives more enjoyable.
- AM/FM radio: This option allowed drivers to listen to their favorite music while on the road.
- Vinyl roof: This option added a touch of elegance to the car’s exterior and interior.
Comparison with Other Contemporary Cars
Compared to other contemporary cars, the 1968 Mustang GT’s interior offered a balance of sportiness and comfort. While some competitors might have offered more luxurious materials or features, the Mustang GT stood out with its driver-focused design and performance-oriented features.
Key Interior Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Upholstery | Vinyl and cloth, with optional leather seating |
| Dashboard | Driver-centric design with large speedometer and tachometer |
| Steering wheel | Three-spoke design for a sporty feel |
| Available Options | Power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, vinyl roof |
Legacy and Impact
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT remains a significant car in automotive history, solidifying the Mustang’s place in popular culture and influencing the design and performance of future generations. Its impact is felt in its lasting appeal, its influence on pop culture, and its contribution to the evolution of the Mustang brand.
Cultural Significance
The 1968 Mustang GT became a symbol of the American dream and a cultural icon. It was featured in numerous films, television shows, and songs, becoming synonymous with freedom, rebellion, and the spirit of the 1960s. Its sleek design and powerful engine captivated audiences and cemented its place in the hearts of car enthusiasts.
The Mustang GT was also a popular choice for racing, further enhancing its reputation for performance and desirability.
Comparison to Modern Successors
While the 1968 Mustang GT is a classic, its legacy lives on in its modern successors. The current Mustang GT continues to offer powerful performance, stylish design, and a connection to the heritage of its predecessor. However, modern advancements in technology and engineering have resulted in significant improvements in terms of safety, fuel efficiency, and handling.
The modern Mustang GT boasts a more sophisticated interior, advanced driver-assistance features, and a range of engine options, catering to a wider range of driving preferences.
Evolution of the Mustang Brand
The 1968 Mustang GT played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of the Mustang brand. Its success solidified the Mustang as a performance car, establishing its reputation for power and style. This legacy has continued to influence the development of subsequent generations of Mustangs, which have consistently offered powerful engines, sporty handling, and distinctive styling.
The 1968 Mustang GT laid the foundation for the Mustang’s enduring popularity and its iconic status in the automotive world.
Conclusive Thoughts
The 1968 Ford Mustang GT stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of American muscle cars. Its powerful performance, striking design, and cultural significance continue to inspire awe and admiration. As a symbol of a bygone era, the 1968 Mustang GT remains a coveted classic, capturing the imagination of car enthusiasts and reminding us of the era that defined its creation.
Whether on the racetrack or cruising down a highway, the 1968 Mustang GT’s roar echoes the spirit of an unforgettable decade.