Just as they were more than 50 years ago, Mustangs are fast, fun, and affordable ways to get around. Traditional ponies like this 1965 Ford Mustang coupe are a great way to own an icon without spending a ton of money, and when they carry a few clever updates, they make wonderful hobby vehicles that can still be enjoyed every day. Seriously, if you could own a classic V8-powered Mustang coupe for less than the price of... a new one with a 4-cylinder engine, why wouldn't you leap at the chance? Especially one with A/C, power steering, and power front disc brakes? Nicely refinished, this Raven Black coupe carries all the timeless design cues that put these cars at the top of every enthusiast's wish list. Bodywork is well done, it has a classic color combination, and everything lines up well enough to really attract positive attention at local shows. The line that runs along the tops of the fenders is as sharp as a crease in Don Draper's suit, and the paint is shiny without looking too modern. It's got the correct front grille with the "crosshairs" in the center emblem, optional chrome trim on the quarters, and it's nice that it hasn't been forced to wear stripes or wings like so many of its siblings. The chrome is in fantastic shape, too, totally in line with the rest of the car, giving it a clean all-of-a-piece look. Black upholstery makes the interior a brilliant place to spend some time. Likely restored with the rest of the car, the interior offers a lot of newer components, including seat covers, door panels, dash pad, and carpets, all of which show very little use, and note that this Pony has a rare front-bench seat with center arm rest. Factory gauges are crisp and all work properly and the original AM radio has been replaced by a retro-style AM/FM/Cassette head unit, that also powers the 12-disc changer mounted in the truck. Below the dash is a dealer-issued A/C unit, now pumping cold R134a refrigerant into the cabin. Power steering is a desirable option, even on the lightweight Mustang and the three-spoke steering wheel that controls it is in excellent shape as well. Even the trunk is correctly finished with a plaid mat and spare tire with matching cover. Classic performance in a Mustang means only one thing: a snappy 289 cubic inch V8. This is a C-code car, so you get a relatively economic Motorcraft 2-barrel carburetor that still delivers plenty of V8 punch. And when your car runs this well, there's really no need for powertrain upgrades and modifications, instead letting the spirit of 1965 flow through you whenever you're behind the wheel. It fires easily and has a nice V8 exhaust note thanks to a snarky exhaust system. Ford Blue on the engine with yellow valve covers and air cleaner make it look awesome, and it's pretty much the way Ford intended, from the air cleaner to the big radiator (upgraded to an aluminum replacement), although the A/C compressor and power dual master cylinder are modern additions. The undercarriage is not shiny although definitely solid and dry, but if you're into driving instead of polishing your car at static shows, you'll never even notice. Power front disc brakes and power steering add great enjoyment to the driving experience, making this Mustang easy to operate for just about any driver. A C4 3-speed automatic transmission spins the original 8-inch rear with tall gears inside, so it's great on the highway. 14-inch hubcaps look great on any early Mustang, and they're protected by 205/70/14 Firestone whitewall radials. We seem to be getting lucky with early Mustangs here at Streetside Classics, but don't wait for the next one, you need to put this lovely '65 coupe in your garage right away! Call now!