Ford Mustang: One of the icons of sports cars, the Ford Mustang has become a legend since its launch in 1964.
51 years ago today, the all-new 1965 Ford Mustang was officially sold after a series of press introduction events in New York and Europe. April 17, 1964 has become the “birthday” of the Ford Mustang, engraved in the minds of Mustang lovers and automotive historians.
Henry Ford II with the new Mustang
Henry Ford II posed with the all-new Mustang at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, marking the car’s exciting debut.
The first Mustangs
The first production Mustangs were delivered to Ford dealerships nationwide, and were kept secret until the official launch date on April 17. Lee Iacocca, Ford Vice President and General Manager, is considered is the “father” of the Mustang, introduced the car to the media at a press conference on April 13.
Introducing the Ford Mustang at the 1964 World’s Fair
Lee Iacocca introduced the Mustang to the media at the Ford Pavilion at the 1964 New York World’s Fair. The Mustang was available as a hardtop and convertible during its initial introduction, with a fastback body style later.
The press kit initially provided details about the new Mustang, which were held up until the afternoon press conference on April 13, four days before the official launch. This gives journalists time to attract public attention through newspapers, radio and television.
After the press conference, journalists traveled to the Westchester Country Club for lunch and began the 750-mile drive back to the Ford Product Development Center in Dearborn, Michigan, to demonstrate the Mustang’s durability. and create a lot of attention for the new car.
First retail purchase of a Mustang
The first retail purchase of a Mustang isn’t for an Air Force cadet, a high school student or an astronaut. On April 15, 1964, Gail Brown, a young woman who had just graduated, walked into a Ford dealership in Chicago and drove home with the first Mustang sold to consumers – two days before the official on-sale date.
Brown and future husband Tom Wise kept the car in their family for decades to come, celebrating the Mustang’s 50th birthday last year. They know well that Mustang’s birthday is April 15, 1964, an unforgettable day for them and all Mustang lovers.
