Gray Court, South Carolina – A classic piece of American automotive history has surfaced for sale, and it’s turning heads not because of what’s under the hood, but because of what’s inside the cabin. A restored 1965 Ford Mustang, listed by Classic Cars of South Carolina, is up for grabs, featuring one of the rarest factory interior options ever offered: a front bench seat.
A Mustang With Room for Three in the Front? Yes, It’s Real.
While most enthusiasts are familiar with the sporty two-bucket seat layout that became iconic in the early Mustangs, Ford gave buyers another choice when the first-generation pony car hit the streets. Back in 1965, the automaker offered two optional interior configurations—code 65A (standard) and 65C (deluxe)—that allowed buyers of hardtop and convertible models to opt for a full-width front bench seat.
This option was extremely rare and unpopular at the time, with most buyers rejecting it in favor of the more stylish and sportier bucket seats. Many felt that the bench layout made the Mustang look more like a family sedan than a performance coupe, which didn’t fit the rebellious image Ford was selling. As a result, it’s estimated that only about 2,100 Mustangs were ever built with a factory front bench seat.
Today, that forgotten option has become a unique collector’s item.
A Clean, Restored Example—Ready to Drive or Show
The Mustang now listed for sale by Classic Cars of SC is one of those ultra-rare bench seat models, and it has already gone through a full restoration. According to the dealership, this vehicle is ready for just about anything—be it classic car shows, weekend cruise-ins, or even daily driving.
The exterior is finished in yellow, though it’s unclear if that’s the original factory color. The listing does not confirm how much of the car remains in original condition, so anyone seriously interested should schedule an in-person inspection. While the exterior and interior are in solid shape thanks to the restoration, the standout feature remains the front bench seat—an unmistakable conversation starter for Mustang fans.
You may check more latest news: need mechanic news
Under the Hood: Reliable, But Nothing Wild
This isn’t a high-performance GT or a Shelby clone. It’s a standard C-code Mustang, which means it came from the factory with a 289 cubic inch V8 and a two-barrel carburetor. This was one of the most common configurations offered in 1965 and is generally seen as a solid, reliable powerplant rather than a high-output beast.
The car’s odometer shows just 20,000 miles, but the dealer believes it has rolled over, meaning the true mileage is likely 120,000 or more. Still, it’s running and in good mechanical condition, according to the seller.
It also comes with two highly desirable factory features for comfort and drivability: air conditioning and power steering—both of which were optional extras back in the day and not included in every Mustang.
Is It Worth It?
While C-code Mustangs are relatively common and not the most collectible variant, the front bench seat could be the golden ticket for collectors looking for something truly unique. If you’re building a collection or want a Mustang that stands out at local shows, this feature might be just enough to seal the deal.
Classic Cars of SC is currently offering the Mustang for $17,500, a drop from its original asking price of $19,000. They’ve also enabled the Make Offer feature on eBay, allowing potential buyers to submit their best bid. So far, 18 people have added the listing to their watchlists, indicating that there’s definite interest.
The car is physically located in Gray Court, South Carolina, and based on its current running condition, the dealership says it’s roadworthy. That means a serious buyer could potentially fly in, purchase the car, and drive it home, just like in the good old days.
A Rare Opportunity for Mustang Collectors
If you’re a Mustang lover who wants more than just another C-code coupe, this restored 1965 model might just be what you’ve been looking for. The bench seat alone makes it a standout among thousands of Mustangs on the road and in collections today. While it may not have a high-performance engine or racing stripes, what it offers is historical rarity, a fully restored condition, and the chance to own a truly unique piece of Ford history.
FAQs
How rare is a 1965 Mustang with a front bench seat?
In 1965, Ford produced approximately 17,116 Mustangs with front bench seats out of 680,989 total units. This means that only about 2.5% of 1965 Mustangs had this feature, making it a rare and unique option for collectors.
What engine does the 1965 Mustang C-code have?
The 1965 Mustang C-code is equipped with a 289 cubic inch V8 engine featuring a two-barrel carburetor. This engine produces around 200 horsepower and was the most common engine option for Mustangs during that year.
Does the 1965 Mustang have factory air conditioning and power steering?
Yes, some 1965 Mustangs came with factory-installed air conditioning and power steering. These features were optional at the time and are considered desirable for comfort and ease of driving, especially in warmer climates.
Where is the 1965 Mustang with a bench seat for sale?
The 1965 Ford Mustang featuring the rare front bench seat is currently for sale at Classic Cars of South Carolina, located in Gray Court, South Carolina.
Is the 1965 Mustang with a bench seat already restored?
Yes, the 1965 Mustang with the rare front bench seat has undergone restoration. It is reported to be in good condition, suitable for car shows, cruise-ins, or daily driving.
How much does the restored 1965 Mustang cost?
The restored 1965 Mustang with the rare front bench seat is listed for sale at $17,500, which is a $1,500 discount from its original price of $19,000.
What makes the front bench seat in the 1965 Mustang special?
The front bench seat in the 1965 Mustang is special because it was a rare factory option that allowed three passengers to sit in the front. Most Mustangs came with bucket seats, so the bench seat configuration is uncommon and sought after by collectors.
Can I drive the 1965 Mustang home after purchase?
According to the seller, the restored 1965 Mustang is in running condition, which means a buyer could potentially drive it home after purchase, depending on distance and local regulations.
What is the mileage on the 1965 Mustang’s odometer?
The odometer on the 1965 Mustang shows 20,000 miles; however, the seller believes it has rolled over, indicating the actual mileage is likely higher.
Are there many 1965 Mustangs with bench seats available?
Due to the low production numbers of bench seat-equipped Mustangs in 1965, finding one available for sale is quite rare, making this listing notable for collectors and enthusiasts.
Leave a Reply