The classic Mustang is as popular today as it was when first produced over 40 years ago. How long will this interest in the classic Mustang last?
The classic mustang hobby is very much alive and vibrant today. This article reflects on the history of the classic Mustang hobby and my perspective on the longevity of the hobby.
Today's classic Mustang interest was first awakened during the late 1970's and early 1980. The overall economy was suffering, unemployment was high and credit was hard to obtain. The initial interest in the Mustang was prompted by economic concerns, the need for good reliable transportation.
During this time period of the early 1980's, the 1965 Mustang was only 15 years old and readily available in the used car market. Replacement engine parts were available at the local auto parts store and Ford still sold many of the replacement body and trim parts.
Proceeding this time, the Mustang had gone "cold" to the public. The reasons include the end of production of the classic Mustang body style (1965-1973) and the poorly accepted 1974 through 1980 Mustang body styles. The Mustang was so unpopular by 1980 that Ford considered ending the Mustang body style in 1981.
Many loyal Mustang owners called and wrote passionate letters to Ford Motor Company pleading for the continued production of the Mustang body style.
At the same time, a few people saw the potential of the classic Mustang as a daily driver and started to reproduce items that were not currently available. One of the first offerings was interior upholstery made by Distinctive Industries and molded carpet sets by Auto Custom Carpets. Arm rest pads, kick panels and other interior items soon followed by individuals who saw the potential.
Mustang Monthly Magazine was started by Larry Dobbs in 1981 which supplied a community for Mustang owners and suppliers of Mustang parts to communicate. The Mustang hobby grew quickly and by 1984 the Mustang hobby was firmly established.
Ford Motor Company listened to the requests of Mustang owners and recognized the opportunity to capture the market place of loyal Mustang consumers. After research and design work, Ford developed a new platform for the second generation of Mustang. During the spring of 1984 numerous "20th Anniversary" Mustang car shows nationwide and presented the new 1984 Mustang to Mustang loyal consumers.
The new 1984 Mustang design was well accepted among Mustang enthusiasts, thus starting a whole new generation of Mustang owners.
The reason we can enjoy the new 2010 Mustang today is because of the love, admiration and loyalty of those Mustang owners some 30 years ago. The Mustang body style has become a timeless classic desired by enthusiasts worldwide.
I fully expect Ford to continue production of the Mustang body style for many years to come. Loyal Mustang consumers will keep the Mustang alive!
About the Author
Randy Stoker is the owner of Sacramento Mustang Parts specializing in parts for the classic 1965-1973 Ford Mustang. Sacramento Mustang started business in 1980 and has provided excellent service to the Mustang hobby ever since.
