13 Ultra-Rare Mustangs Every Collector Dreams Of
The Mustang is a symbol of American muscle, known for its bold performance and stylish design. Over the decades, certain Mustang models have become extremely rare, making them highly desirable among collectors. These rare Mustangs are celebrated for their unique features, limited production numbers, and lasting impact on the automotive world. Whether you are an avid collector or a casual enthusiast, learning about these rare gems is sure to spark interest. Keep reading to discover some of the rarest and most fascinating Mustangs in history.
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1964 Indy Pace Car Replica
The 1964 Indy Pace Car Replica was produced to commemorate the Ford Mustang’s role as the official pace car at the Indianapolis 500. Approximately 220 units were made, with most of them being hardtops, and 35 were specially made as convertibles. The standout feature of these cars was the white exterior with blue racing stripes, along with special Official Pace Car” decals. The current market value for a well-preserved example is between $32,500 and $50,000.
These cars are rare due to their limited production and their connection to the prestigious Indy 500 event. The 1964 Indy Pace Car Replica became a collector’s item, especially those with the original factory features intact. With its historical significance and unique design, it remains highly sought after by Mustang collectors. Its value continues to rise, especially for the convertible versions, which are the most prized.
1982 Ford Mustang GT 302 HO
The 1982 Ford Mustang GT 302 HO was a high-performance model produced during a time when Mustang was returning to its muscle car roots. Approximately 23,447 units were built, featuring a 5.0L 302 HO V8 engine. The standout feature of this car was its powerful engine and unique styling, which included a hood scoop and sporty decals. A well-maintained 1982 Mustang GT 302 HO can fetch around $12,700 in today’s market.
This model was significant because it marked the return of performance to the Mustang lineup after years of underpowered engines. The 1982 Mustang GT 302 HO became an iconic example of early 80s muscle cars. Collectors appreciate it for its combination of speed, style, and the fact that it laid the foundation for future Mustang performance models. While not rare in number, its status as an early 80s muscle car makes it valuable to collectors.
1972 Ford Mustang Sprint Edition
The 1972 Ford Mustang Sprint Edition was a special package created to celebrate the 1972 Summer Olympics. Only 3,086 units were produced, featuring distinct red, white, and blue graphics, along with unique interior details. The standout feature was its patriotic design, making it one of the more memorable special editions of the Mustang. Depending on condition, the value of these models ranges between $25,000 and $35,000.
This limited edition Mustang was not only a tribute to the Olympics but also a way for Ford to offer something unique to Mustang fans. The Sprint Edition package helped make the 1972 Mustang stand out from other models. Today, these cars are valued for their historical significance and unique styling. They remain a desirable collector’s item due to their rarity and the eye-catching design.
1965 Shelby Mustang GT350
The 1965 Shelby Mustang GT350 is one of the most iconic and collectible Mustangs ever produced, with only 562 units built. It was equipped with a 289ci V8 engine that delivered significant power for its time, paired with the renowned Shelby modifications. The standout feature of the GT350 was its performance, with better handling and acceleration compared to standard Mustangs. A pristine example of this model can be valued anywhere from $190,000 to $370,000, with concours-quality cars fetching even higher prices.
This model is revered for its racing heritage and its influence on the muscle car era. The GT350’s combination of sleek styling, a high-performance engine, and limited production made it a favorite among car enthusiasts. With its place in history as one of the first true performance Mustangs, the 1965 Shelby GT350 is not only rare but also a highly desirable collector’s item. Its value continues to rise, particularly for well-preserved examples or those with historical racing backgrounds.
1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Convertible
The 1967 Shelby GT500 Convertible is one of the rarest Mustangs ever made, with only one unit produced. It was designed as a special promotional car for Ford and was equipped with a 428ci V8 engine, making it both powerful and iconic. The standout feature of this car was its singularity, as it was the only Shelby GT500 Convertible ever built. Due to its rarity, this car is considered priceless among collectors, with estimates suggesting it could be worth millions.
This unique vehicle remains a cornerstone of Mustang history, as it showcases both the performance and luxury elements of Ford’s collaboration with Shelby. As the only example ever produced, it holds a special place in automotive lore. The Shelby GT500 Convertible’s connection to Ford’s racing heritage and its unmatched rarity make it one of the most valuable and coveted Mustangs in existence. Its monetary value is immeasurable due to its singular status and historical significance.
1993 Ford SVT Mustang Cobra
The 1993 Ford SVT Mustang Cobra was a high-performance version of the Mustang, with only 4,993 units produced. It was powered by a 5.0L V8 engine and featured several performance enhancements, including a revised suspension and unique styling elements. The standout feature of the Cobra was its balance of power and handling, which made it a favorite among enthusiasts. The value of these cars today ranges from $54,850 for a well-maintained example to higher amounts for cars in mint condition.
This model marked the beginning of Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT), which would go on to produce some of the most iconic performance cars in Mustang history. The 1993 Cobra had a much-improved suspension compared to standard models, making it a much more capable performer. Collectors are drawn to the Cobra for its excellent driving dynamics and its position as a cornerstone of Ford’s performance division. Its relatively low production numbers also help maintain its value in today’s market.
1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Twister Special
The 1970 Mustang Mach 1 Twister Special was a limited edition with only 96 units produced, making it one of the rarest Mustangs of the era. It was equipped with a 351ci V8 engine and featured unique graphics, including Twister Special decals. The standout feature was the car’s striking appearance, combined with its high-performance engine and handling. A Twister Special is valued between $35,000 and $45,000, depending on its condition and originality.
This limited-edition Mustang was created to celebrate Ford’s success in motorsport and to give enthusiasts something unique to admire. The car’s bold appearance, combined with its powerful engine, made it a standout in the Mustang lineup. The Twister Special is an extremely desirable collectible due to its rarity and its connection to the performance-focused Mach 1 line. Its market value reflects its historical significance and limited production.
1969 Boss 429 Mustang
The 1969 Boss 429 Mustang is one of the most famous and sought-after Mustangs, with only 857 units produced. It was equipped with a 429ci V8 engine designed for NASCAR homologation, making it an extremely rare and powerful vehicle. The standout feature of this car was its massive engine and unique hood scoop, which set it apart from other Mustangs. A well-maintained Boss 429 Mustang can fetch anywhere from $331,985 to over $500,000, depending on condition and originality.
The Boss 429 Mustang was designed to meet NASCAR requirements and is considered one of the most powerful Mustangs ever produced. Its rarity, with less than 1,000 units built, and its performance-focused design make it one of the most valuable Mustangs in history. Collectors highly prize these vehicles for both their muscle car heritage and their uniqueness. The Boss 429 Mustang’s performance and history make it an iconic model that will continue to appreciate in value.
1984 Ford Mustang GT350
The 1984 Ford Mustang GT350 was a special edition produced to mark the 20th anniversary of the Mustang. Only about 5,000 units were produced, and it featured unique styling, including special decals and a more powerful 5.0L V8 engine. The standout feature was its commemorative nature, celebrating two decades of the Mustang lineup. These models are valued between $5,000 and $10,000, depending on condition and originality.
The 1984 GT350 had a significant impact as a limited edition performance model that celebrated the Mustang’s legacy. Its unique appearance, enhanced by the 5.0L engine and anniversary decals, helped it stand out in the market. Collectors appreciate it for its historical importance and limited availability, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts. While it is not as rare as other models, the 1984 GT350 remains an important part of Mustang history.
1970 Boss 429 Mustang
The 1970 Boss 429 Mustang is an iconic model, with just 499 units produced. It featured a high-performance 429ci V8 engine, making it one of the most powerful Mustangs of its time. The standout feature was its engine, which was designed to meet NASCAR requirements, and its unique appearance, including a functional hood scoop. In excellent condition, these vehicles can fetch prices between $331,985 and $500,000.
The Boss 429 Mustang’s rarity and power have made it one of the most valuable models in the Mustang lineup. Only a limited number were built, making it a highly desirable car for collectors. The car’s massive engine and performance-oriented design make it a standout in Ford’s history. The Boss 429 continues to command top dollar in the market due to its performance and rarity.
1978 Mustang King Cobra
The 1978 Mustang King Cobra was a special edition designed to celebrate the Mustang’s performance heritage. About 4,000 units were produced, featuring bold graphics and a 302ci V8 engine. The standout feature of this model was its aggressive appearance, highlighted by a large King Cobra decal on the hood. These cars are valued between $10,000 and $20,000, depending on condition.
The Mustang King Cobra was part of Ford’s effort to bring back performance-oriented models to the Mustang lineup. Its unique appearance and performance upgrades helped it stand out during a time when the muscle car market was waning. Collectors appreciate the King Cobra for its rarity and distinctive style. Although it is not the most valuable Mustang model, it remains a sought-after piece of Mustang history.
1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake
The 1967 Ford Shelby GT500 Super Snake is an incredibly rare and powerful Mustang, with only one unit ever produced. It was built to be a high-performance vehicle, featuring a 427ci V8 engine. The standout feature of this car was its immense power and exclusivity, as it was the only Super Snake ever made. Due to its singular status, its value is considered priceless among collectors, though it is believed to be worth millions.
This car was originally built as a special promotional vehicle for Goodyear Tires and is considered one of the most valuable Mustangs ever made. The Super Snake’s performance and rarity make it a legendary vehicle among Mustang enthusiasts. Its value cannot be easily assessed, as it is considered a one-of-a-kind vehicle that holds immense historical significance. The Shelby GT500 Super Snake is a true automotive treasure.
1968 Ford Mustang California Special
The 1968 Mustang California Special was a regional special edition, with only 4,118 units produced. It featured unique styling elements, including a fiberglass rear deck lid and special interior accents. The standout feature of this car was its California-inspired design, which gave it a unique look compared to other Mustangs. These models are valued between $25,000 and $45,000, depending on condition and originality.
The California Special was designed as a special package for the West Coast market, making it a rare and collectible model. Its unique features, such as the special front grille and unique badges, made it stand out among other Mustangs. Collectors appreciate the California Special for its rarity and unique design. This edition remains a popular choice for Mustang enthusiasts seeking a distinct and valuable vehicle.
For those passionate about classic cars, owning one of these rare Mustangs is a dream come true. Their combination of performance, rarity, and historical importance makes them highly sought after in today’s market. As these models become harder to find, their value continues to grow. If you are looking to invest in a piece of automotive history, these Mustangs are a great choice.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.