Jay Leno checks out a restored Ford Mustang K-Code

Right before the Shelbys and Bosses arrived, the Ford Mustang K-Code was the peak of Pony Motor vehicle efficiency. On this episode of Jay Leno’s Garage, Mustang fanatic Scott McMullen explains the significance of the K-Code, and reveals off this restored very first-year case in point.

The K-Code went on sale together with the Mustang by itself in the 1964 calendar year, but later more than enough that the first vehicles have been registered as 1965 products, which is why you are going to hear the convertible revealed in this movie and other first-calendar year Mustangs referred to as “1964 1/2” designs. Ford provided the K-Code option for both of those the coupe and convertible physique designs, as very well as the fastback when that entire body design and style arrived later in 1964.

1964 1/2 Ford Mustang K-Code convertible on Jay Leno’s Garage

Deciding upon the K-Code possibility netted a sportier edition of the Mustang’s optional 289-cubic-inch V-8, boasting a 10.5:1 compression ratio, a reliable-lifter camshaft, four-barrel carburetor, significant-duty valve springs, and a superior-movement exhaust manifold. These pieces upped output to 271 hp, which is sent to the rear-wheels by a 4-speed handbook transmission with the identical ratios employed in the afterwards Mustang Shelby GT350.

Ford built some suspension alterations as perfectly, with input from racing legend Dan Gurney. Interestingly, immediately after driving prototypes, Gurney preferred the heavier, fewer-rigid Mustang convertible to the coupe, according to McMullen. That is simply because included bracing (sourced from the Thunderbird) gave the convertible a decrease middle of gravity. 

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The K-Code was a real sleeper, with the primary giveaway currently being “Superior Functionality 289” badges on the front fenders. Remember that Ford hadn’t totally dedicated to advertising and marketing the Mustang as a effectiveness automobile when it was introduced. That would occur afterwards when executive Lee Iacocca introduced in Carroll Shelby to create the GT350, which would be followed by a critical of ever-much more-muscular Mustangs, this kind of as the Shelby GT500 and Manager 429, through the conclusion of the 1960s.

The car or truck shown here is amid the first production K-Code Mustangs. It was designed in June 1964 pursuing numerous delays similar to areas problems and other variables, McMullen claims in the video clip. It is really been restored as close to unique affliction as feasible. Some body panels essential to be changed, but McMullen consulted with the first proprietor on all of the aspects, and even tried not to overdo the paint finish over and above factory high quality. So it’s the great educating instrument for an crucial portion of Mustang background.