When Ford introduced its new Mustang in 1964, it was an immediate sensation. By itself, it created an entire new class of automobiles. It wasn’t a muscle car, and it wasn’t a sports car; it became known as a “Pony Car.” Still, some called it a “secretary’s car” and criticized its lack of power. That was partially corrected with the high performance 271-hp, 289-cid V8, but there was still a segment of the car buying public that shunned the car. The Pontiac GTO and other muscle cars were attracting those who liked power, and there were many choices for the sports car crowd. Ford wanted those buyers, and they eventually went to a Texan and former race driver who had previously linked performance sports cars, as well as sports car racing, with Ford.
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