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MUSTANG II
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An entirely new concept of the Mustang leads Ford's 1974 model line. The new version of the original sporty 2-seater launched in 1965 is 7-inches shorter than the first model, 19-inches shorter than last year's. Bearing a front end styling that is typically Mustang, with wide oval grille and a newly designed galloping horse, the rear end features large pod-like taillights with amber turn signals. Front and rear bumpers are color-keyed urethane coated steel, accented by a bright metal strip.
Two distinct body styles, a notchback for the hardtop and Ghia (formally Grande) 2-door models, reminiscent of the original Mustang, and a racy fastback design is featured for the 3-door 2 plus 2 and Mach I models. The 2 body styles, with variations, add up to a total of 5 separate models. The 2-passenger, 3-door model is the first Ford 2-passenger car since the original 1957 Thunderbird.
Both the 2-door and 3-door models are built on a 96.2-inch wheelbase and share exact dimensions all the way around including an overall length of 175-inches. Front bucket seats on all models feature deeply coved backs with full width headrests. The 2-door models are available with or without a fixed bench type rear seat, while a fold down one is standard on the 2 plus 2 and Mach I. It can be optionally ordered for the 2-door models.
The 3-door model, with fastback rear end treatment has the 3rd door in this slanted section. It includes the rear window and deck lid and is attached to the roof with hidden hinges. Gas-filled cylinder devices assist opening and to keep the door in full open position. When the seat is folded on the 2 plus 2 and Mach I models, the entire load floor is covered with cut pile carpeting.
Interiors are all new and feature many of the standards found in European Sports cars. The instrument cluster, for example, includes two large pods above the steering column that house a 6000 rpm tachometer and a speedometer / odometer. A row of smaller gauges, angled for easy driver visibility, are for fuel, charging amperes, and engine temperature. A set of lights indicate loss of brake hydraulic pressure, oil pressure, and seat belt securing. The entire instrument cluster is trimmed with simulated burled walnut woodgrain, and there is a glove box on the panel's right side. The Ghia model of the 2-door, a deluxe version of the standard model, includes a dash mounted digital clock among other dress up items.
All Mustang II's have rack-and-pinion steering and caliper disc front brakes combined with self-energizing drums at the rear. Power assist is optionally available for both steering and brakes. The steering geometry features a design that gives no change in front wheel toe-in or our throughout the suspension travel, and steering is eased by the use of low friction ball joints. Standard wheel size for all models is of 13-inch diameter with a 5-inch rim width. Deep dish forged aluminum wheels with 5 1/2-inch rims are optional for all models.
Standard power plant for all Mustang II models, except the Mach I is an all new American built 2.3 liter (140 CID) single overhead cam four. Built at the Lima, Ohio engine plant, the new engine is all metric in dimensions and is available with either a 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic transmission, both Ford built.
Standard engine for the Mach I is the German built 2.8 liter overhead valve V-6 which is also offered as an optional power plant for the other Mustang II models. This engine has the 4-speed manual gearbox as standard with the 3-speed automatic optionally available. Standard rear ratio for all models and engine/transmission combinations is 5.55:1, the same for the optional limited slip differential.
Among the other available options are a wide selection of tires including steel belted radials, air conditioning, electric rear window defroster, sun roof, leather wrapped steering wheel, pivoting quarter windows on 3-door models, several AM/FM radio and stereo combinations, and a competition suspension system. This latter includes heavy duty front and rear springs, adjustable front and rear shocks, and a rear stabilizer bar.
There is also an Anti-Theft Alarm System, first introduced on the full size '73 Fords, that sound the horn for 5 minutes if the doors or deck lid are opened with the system activated. Included with this option are a locking inside hood release and a spare tire lock.
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