1968 Ford Mustang California Special Heads to Auction in Candy Apple Red

A 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS coupe finished in Candy Apple Red over a matching red interior is being offered for sale, presenting collectors with a chance to acquire a distinctive example of the California Special package. The car is powered by a 289ci V8 engine paired with a three-speed automatic transmission and is sold with a copy of a Marti Report, service records, and New Hampshire registration that serves as proof of ownership.

The GT/CS package, which gives the Mustang its visual identity, includes fibreglass quarter-panel scoops and extensions, a fibreglass decklid spoiler, a fibreglass rear panel, Shelby-style taillights, rectangular fog lights, and a hood with functional louvres and exposed locks. Side and tail stripes, a pop-open gas cap, and dual exhaust outlets complete the exterior treatment. The body was repainted around 2015 as part of a refurbishment, though the seller notes a paint chip on the right fender and door, and the right door requires lifting slightly to close. Some corrosion is also reported, and the taillights do not operate sequentially.

The car rides on 14-inch Magnum 500-style wheels mounted with P235/60 Futura GLS Supersport tyres. It was specified with power steering, and drum brake work carried out in May 2023 included replacement of the front wheel cylinders, flex hoses, shoes, hardware, and wheel seals, along with resurfacing of the front drums and repacking of the front wheel bearings.

Inside, the cabin features front bucket seats and a rear bench upholstered in red vinyl, with the rear seatbacks finished in black. A retro-style radio has been installed. The seller notes that the interior needs refreshing, with the driver- and passenger-seat bottoms torn. The five-digit odometer indicates 28,000 miles and has rolled over. The temperature and oil-pressure gauges are reported as inoperative, the horn does not work, and the steering wheel is cracked. The operation of the heater and defroster has not been confirmed.

The 289ci V8 was factory rated at 195 horsepower. Engine equipment includes a Summit Racing carburetor, a Weiand intake manifold, an Edelbrock valve-cover breather, and a Speedmaster ignition coil. The carburetor was rebuilt in June 2018. A September 2020 invoice references a «new engine check over», although the supplied information does not establish whether the engine was replaced or rebuilt. In May 2023, a hole in the timing cover was sealed, spare spark plugs were replaced, fuel lines were replaced, and a PerTronix power relay was wired to provide 12 volts to the ignition. A distributor issue is currently being addressed.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission that was rebuilt in June 2018, when the mufflers were also replaced. The current owner purchased the car in 2018 and is now offering it for sale on behalf of its owner. A copy of a Marti Report lists the car’s original specifications, providing documentation of its factory build.

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Eleanor Ellington

Staff Reporter

Eleanor Ellington covers public affairs, politics, business, culture and daily news for Nobel. The role focuses on verification, context, and clear explanations for readers.

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