LilGirl:
Good questions and intelligent of you to consider all of these factors when deciding what year Mustang to purchase.
I would suggest you stay with a Mustang in the 10-year-old or newer range.
These are all Fuel Injection, have decent brakes and suspension as well as air bags, on-board diagnostics and all the amenities, including quality stereos and A/C.
You need to assess some important factors: the first is: How much are you able/willing to pay? The answer will determine what age-range 'Stang you'll be looking at.
The 1989 - 93 5.0 Mustangs are the best, by far, if you can find a 'stock' one that hasn't been modified and with fairly low mileage. These are fun, relaible vehicles.
Available in automatic and 5-speed, with lots still around, both from dealers and private sellers. From $3,000 - $10,000.
Once you get into older 'Classic' Mustangs (pre-74) they get a bit more complicated.
As stated in previous posts, the 1965-73 models have fewer options and are often not as reliable, due to poorer build quality in that time period. The safety question is also a factor, as brakes, suspension and even tires are not anywhere near as good as later models, although they can be upgraded. Maintainance is also required more often for these vehicles and parts can sometimes be difficult to locate and the price can be quite high, depending on the part needed.
Restoration is a big question.
There are restorations and - restorations. To some, a few pounds of bondo (plastic body filler) and a cheap paint job with some tacky seat covers is a 'restoration'. You don't want that.
A quality restoration will use as many original factory body parts as possible (and necessary) and all trim will be replaced too, along with original interior (seat upholstery and carpets) fabrics and colors.
The paint will be high-quality, in an original color. All mechanical parts will be replaced with new or rebuilt and in some cases, upgraded (especially tires and brakes) parts to meet current standards.
All this is expensive to buy, maintain and keep intact, which is why, for your first Mustang, I would recommend a 'late' model that has everything you'll want or need, with all the modern conveniences and all the cachet of a real american classic, a Mustang.
Once you've owned a 'late model' Mustang and gotten used to it, you can always sell it and buy an older Mustang, but if you have a bad experience with your first 'Stang, it could sour the whole 'Mustang experience' for you and that would be a shame.
Go with a later model...and enjoy it!
[This message has been edited by Mr 5 0 (edited 05-20-2000).]
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