USA vs USA — 1974 vs 1968
| Mustang II King Cobra | Mustang GT/CS (California Special) | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 139 hp | 230 hp |
| Torque | 250 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,942 cc | 4,949 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.6 sec | 8.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 110 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 3,000 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,451 mm | 2,743 mm |
| Length | 4,521 mm | 4,613 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,318 | 4,118 |
| Original MSRP | $5,280 | $3,100 |
| Value (Excellent) | $45,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford Mustang II. The 1974 and 1968 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 230 hp compared to 139 hp, a 91-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) edges ahead at 8.5 seconds versus 9.6 seconds. On the collector market, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) commands a significant premium over the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1968 Ford Mustang GT/CS (California Special) rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.