Since the introduction of Mustang II ushers in a new concept and a new era of sport small U.S.-built cars, a comparison of the new model with its 1965 predecessor is almost inevitable. Both models can be considered trailblazers produce to meet the predicted demands of an always-changing buying public. The unprecedented success of the original Mustang is a matter of record. Yet a comparison of this original "pony car" with its 1974 couterpart wil give some impression of the "state of the art" advances in the past decade.
The dimensional story bring out some significant facts. Even with the larger bumpers made necessary by current Federal requirements, the Mustang II is still more tha half a foot shorter than the '65. It is two inches wider and almost two inches lower. The first Mustang has a slight edge in shoulder room and hip room. The '74 has a bit more head room while leg room dimensions are equal in front.
Despite a wheelbase that's almost a foot shorter, Mustang II's ride is smooth and quiet.
| COMPARATIVE DIMENSIONS |
| 1974 Mustang II | 1965 Mustang | 1973 Mustang |
| Overall Length | 175.0" | 181.6" | 193.8" |
| Overall Width | 70.2" | 68.2 | 74.1 |
| Overall Height | 49.9 | 51.1 | 50.7 |
| Wheelbase | 96.2 | 108.0 | 109.0 |
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| Headroom, Front | 37.3" | 37.0" | 37.2" |
| Rear | 36.4 | 35.6 | 36.0 |
| Leg Room, Front | 41.8 | 41.8 | 41.7 |
| Rear | 27.6 | 29.7 | 28.2 |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 52.5 | 53.8 | 56.1 |
| Rear | 51.4 | 53.9 | 53.5 |
| Hip Room, Front | 52.1 | 54.7 | 55.7 |
| Rear | 42.8 | 50.9 | 47.2 |
*Dimensions shown are for the 1974 Mustang II two-door hardtop. |
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