USA vs USA — 1965 vs 1968
| Mustang Fastback 2+2 | Mustang GT/CS (California Special) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 225 hp | 230 hp |
| Torque | 312 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,736 cc | 4,949 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.0 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.9 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,549 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,613 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 77,179 | 4,118 |
| Original MSRP | $2,589 | $3,100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 8/10 |
On balance, the 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback 2+2 makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) counters with greater rarity, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback 2+2 for outright capability, or the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford Mustang. The 1965 and 1968 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback 2+2 producing 225 hp and the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) delivering 230 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback 2+2 edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 8.5 seconds. The Ford Mustang carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 451 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 4,118 units built, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) is considerably scarcer than the Ford Mustang's 77,179 examples. On the collector market, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) commands a significant premium over the 1965 Ford Mustang Fastback 2+2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.