This Ford Mustang 289 Hardtop is a smart and eminently usable example of the iconic classic ‘pony car’, offered from long-term ownership, and in highly original condition. Under the bonnet sits a naturally aspirated 289-cubic inch (4.7-litre) small-block Ford V8, delivering around 168kW to the rear wheels via a three-speed ‘Cruise-o-matic’ automatic transmission. The odometer indicates 56,292 miles, which is believed to be accurate, however this is not warranted. This Mustang was originally manufactured in San Jose, California, and was imported into Australia in 2014, where it has been with the seller and fourth owner for the last eight years. This Mustang is finished in the vibrant hue of Candy Apple Red over a black vinyl-trimmed interior, punctuated by chrome trim accents. It rides on a set of 14-inch steel wheels with chrome and silver hubcaps featuring faux-three-spoke spinners, and shod in Maxxis MA-1 whitewall tyres. The factory specification includes a three-spoke steering wheel, manually operated windows, push-out front quarterlight windows, a Ford-branded radio, and heater and ventilation controls. This Mustang now features an aftermarket period air conditioning system, a Pioneer CD stereo, and a rear tow bar. The car comes with a spare wheel with cover, the original California ‘black’ number plates, the owner’s manual, two keys, the original registration certificate in leather pouch on steering column and registration papers for subsequent three owners, and the import approval certificate. The seller notes a previous poorly repaired dent on the roof (approximately one square foot in size). The Candy Apple Red paintwork is reported to be in good overall condition, though the seller notes a blemish on the boot lid, and minor stone chips around the car. There is a small area of damage on the rear driver’s-side wheel arch, and a number of other minor blemishes, chips, cracks, and scratches around the car, which are documented in the photo gallery. Stepping inside, the cabin is presented in good shape given the car’s age and usage. The seller notes that a small area of stitching on the passenger seat is coming undone. There are also minor blemishes on the rear bench seat back, blemishes on the passenger-side dashboard, and a mild ‘patina’ on the trim. Its aftermarket air-conditioning system will require a re-gas. The seller is not aware of any mechanical or electrical faults with the vehicle. The car’s last REGO test was conducted on 7 February 2023, and was recorded as a clean pass. This Mustang’s most recent maintenance was carried out in February 2023, which consisted of a safety inspection, and a lubrication service. Prior to this, annual safety inspection and lubrication services was performed in January 2022 and January 2021, with the latter also including the replacement of the front shock absorbers, springs, saddles, ball joints, and bushes. Other notable maintenance includes a power steering hose being replaced, a new fuel sender unit, the genuine Mustang air conditioning unit installed in 2016, and the left-hand taillight housing and the turn signal switch being replaced. This 1966 Ford Mustang 289 Hardtop is a smart and eye-catching example of the iconic classic ‘pony car’, offered from long-term ownership, and in highly original condition. Presented in the bold hue of Candy Apple Red, with a melodious small-block V8 and instantly recognisable styling, it would make a solid addition to any assembly of American classics, and an enjoyable weekend toy, fair-weather cruiser, and classic car show companion. The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details. This vehicle’s VIN has been checked against the Australian Personal Property Securities Register, and there is no security interest or other registration kind logged against the serial number. This vehicle has been checked through the Austroads NEVDIS system, and there are no markers under the written-off or stolen databases.