Looking for tips on restoring your vintage Mustang?
Keeping a classic car authentic while restoring it is one of the biggest challenges an owner can face. Make a mistake and you could end up devaluing your vehicle and taking away all its history. Do it right and you have a genuine piece of American automotive history sitting in your garage.
But how do you know which way you’re going?
The good news is that there are several things you can do to ensure your vintage Mustang stays true to its roots, while also looking amazing.
In this article, we’ll be going over a few of these restoration tips to help you out. This includes:
- Why authenticity is important to your restoration
- Areas to pay extra attention to
- Where to source parts from
- Mistakes to avoid
- Working with professional restorers
Why Authenticity Matters in Mustang Restoration
Restoring a vintage Mustang isn’t just about having a nice car you can show off at local events. It can also have a direct impact on your vehicle’s value and how important it is in history.
Classic cars have been seeing some real growth in recent years. In fact, the global classic cars market was valued at USD 39.7 billion in 2024. It’s projected to grow all the way up to USD 77.8 billion by 2032.
Needless to say, that’s a lot of money going into vintage vehicles.
But here’s what’s most important for Mustang owners…
Older Mustangs that are in original or close to original specifications will be worth significantly more money at auction. Enthusiasts and collectors looking for classic Mustangs understand that period-correct details separate a true restoration from just another modified project car.
Think about it.
A 1965 Mustang that still has the original engine, transmission, interior, and the like is going to be worth much more money than a car of the same year that’s had parts swapped out. The market will reward authenticity because it keeps that automotive heritage alive.
Areas to Focus On During Restoration
Of course, not every single area of your classic Mustang needs to be spot on. There are specific parts of your vintage vehicle that need a bit more attention if you want to keep it authentic.
The Data Plate
The first place to start on your Mustang’s authenticity is the data plate. This small metal piece will have all the codes for everything that was factory-installed when it left the factory.
This means everything from original paint color to the transmission type. It’s crucial you decode the data plate before starting anything on your vehicle.
By understanding what the factory installed on your Mustang, you can make more informed decisions as you go through the restoration process.
Engine and Drivetrain
The engine compartment is one of the easiest ways to tell how authentic a restoration is. Original engines, carburetors, transmissions, etc., are all incredibly important for a restoration that focuses on authenticity.
Matching-numbers drivetrains should be preserved and left on your Mustang at all costs. Rebuilding the original engine is the best course of action here instead of swapping in a new or modern powerplant.
Interior Components
Interior restoration can be one of the more difficult things to achieve, as comfort often battles originality. Seat upholstery, dashboard components, door panels, carpeting, and other things need to be taken into consideration.
After all, the automotive restoration market was valued at USD 12.8 billion in 2024. That’s because people take getting these details right seriously.
Colors, materials, and other items are important here. New-old-stock parts are much more valuable than reproduction parts, even if the differences may not be noticeable to an untrained eye.
Exterior Details
Paint, trim pieces, emblems, and chrome work all play into this as well. Factory-correct paint colors and period-appropriate application techniques can make a world of difference in how a completed restoration is judged.
Sourcing Original Parts
Finding original parts for your Mustang can be difficult. However, it’s not impossible by any means.
First, look to specialty suppliers who focus exclusively on first-generation Mustangs. These companies know the subtle differences between model years and can help you source the correct components.
Online marketplaces and forums have also made it easier for those restoring Mustangs to find the parts they need. Buying and selling rare Mustang parts has never been easier.
Vintage Mustang clubs and groups have extensive networks of people who will trade or sell you components you’re looking for.
Documentation Is Important
Keep track of every single part you source. Receipts, provenance documents, and photographs all add value to your final restoration. After all, serious collectors will want to know the full history of a restored vehicle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A surprising number of Mustang restorers accidentally do things that take away their vehicles’ authenticity.
Over-Restoration
Making everything on your Mustang too “perfect” can actually lower its value. Factory-built cars have imperfections. Welding marks, paint overspray in certain areas, and other factory marks should be left on if possible.
Judges will look for these kinds of marks as evidence of authenticity when scoring your restoration.
Installing the Wrong Model Year Parts
Ford changed up specifications between model years of Mustangs. This means that just because a part fits doesn’t mean it’s the correct one for that particular year.
Do your research on your exact model before you start installing parts.
Incorporating Modern Upgrades That Are Not Reversible
If you want to add in modern safety features like disc brakes or electronic ignition, make sure you can do so in a reversible manner. Keep all of your original parts safely stored away so that the car can be returned to factory specifications if needed.
Working With Restoration Professionals
Not everyone has the skillset or the facilities necessary to completely restore a vintage Mustang.
The right shop will make all the difference. Look for shops who have documented experience restoring first-generation Mustangs. Ask to see examples of previous restorations they’ve done and speak to former clients.
Setting Clear Expectations From the Start
Let the shop know your authenticity goals from the beginning of the restoration. A concours-level restoration that focuses on authenticity will require different processes than a driver-quality vehicle.
Make sure the shop is onboard with your vision for what you want your Mustang to look like.
Budgeting Enough Money for a Project
Authentic restorations are always going to be more expensive than resto-mods. Original parts are far more expensive. Period-correct methods also take far more time.
Full restorations can easily take over 1,000 hours depending on the condition of the vehicle.
Budget extra for the unexpected. Hidden rust, previous poor repairs, and other factors will all raise the cost of the project.
The Long-Term Value of Doing It Right
Staying true to authenticity is worth it for more reasons than just monetary value.
After all, there’s a genuine satisfaction that comes with owning a restored piece of automotive history. Driving a car that looks, sounds, and feels identical to when it rolled off the factory floor creates a connection that modified vehicles simply cannot replicate.
Classic car enthusiasts respect and honor authentic restorations. Your Mustang becomes a mobile museum that educates future generations about Ford’s engineering and design history.
Final Thoughts
Restoring a vintage Mustang while staying true to authenticity is a long process. It takes patience, research, and attention to detail. After all, the process requires far more work than simply building a nice-looking car.
But the end result makes it worthwhile.
Start by thoroughly documenting your Mustang’s original specifications. Source your parts from trusted, reputable suppliers. Be sure to avoid the common mistakes we’ve talked about. Lastly, work with professionals who understand your authenticity goals.
Follow these tips and you’ll end up with a restored Mustang that pays homage to its past while standing out at any event. This is the kind of restoration that can stand the test of time.
