Skip advert
Advertisement

One-of-a-kind ‘Shorty’ Mustang goes under the hammer

Once destined to be destroyed, the one-off Ford 'Shorty' Mustang prototype is for sale

US Auctioneer Auctions America has announced that it will be selling a unique Ford Mustang at its March 2015 event. Nicknamed the ‘Shorty’ Mustang, it’s the world’s only privately owned Ford Mustang prototype and brings with it a whole host of Blue Oval history.

So what's the big deal with this Mustang? Well...officially built by Ford supplier Dearborn Steel Tubing in 1964, the ‘Shorty’ Mustang earned its name thanks to a 16-inch shorter chassis length, resulting in the removal of the rear seats. The concept was developed whilst Ford toyed with the idea of a compact sports car, but it never passed the development phase.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The ‘Shorty’ was fitted with a custom-built 5-litre V8 with three dual-barrel carburettors, and wore a two-seat fastback coupe body designed by Vince Gardner, a famous freelancer responsible for creations such as the one-off 1953 Ford Vega.

When first unveiled, the prototype Mustang joined a travelling custom car show and was displayed at a number of US events. Despite much interest, Ford decided the car wasn’t to make production and prepared to have it destroyed. 

Designer Gardner was obviously particularly proud of his creation and consequently hid it from Ford. The carmaker listed it as stolen and received an insurance payout, only for the car to resurface months later.

It moved onto its latest owner in 1968 before more recently being fully restored to original condition. Its first post-restoration public appearance was at the 2013 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, and it’s made several Mustang 50th anniversary celebration appearances since (check out our 50th anniversary gallery).

Unsurprisingly, with such a tale behind it the car has become a legend in its own right. It’s expected to face heavy demand at the 27-29 March 2015 auction, held at Fort Lauderdale in South Florida. But as a one-off piece of the Mustang’s already interesting history, it makes for a very enticing purchase. And one hell of an investment…

Whilst we're certain the latest Ford Mustang probably won't see quite the same levels of appreciation for some time, that didn't stop us having a go in one. Read our full review here.

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Ford Mustang GT 2024 review – old school in all the right ways
Ford Mustang GT – front
Reviews

Ford Mustang GT 2024 review – old school in all the right ways

We loved the new Ford Mustang in track-focused Dark Horse form – how does the standard GT fare?
23 May 2024
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Jaguar GT seen on the road: 1000bhp production car prepares to launch Jag’s new era
Jaguar 2026 front
News

New Jaguar GT seen on the road: 1000bhp production car prepares to launch Jag’s new era

Jaguar’s new electric GT continues testing ahead its late-2025 reveal
7 Feb 2025
This is why youngsters aren't interested in cars
Lamborghini Revuelto
Opinion

This is why youngsters aren't interested in cars

Youngsters not into cars any more? The remedy’s obvious, reckons Richard Porter
7 Feb 2025
Best GT cars 2025 – the ultimate continent crossers
Best GT cars 2025
Best cars

Best GT cars 2025 – the ultimate continent crossers

The best GTs must marry the opulence, comfort, refinement and appointment of a luxury saloon, with the style, performance, engagement and sense of occ…
10 Feb 2025