Sunset_Blogger

Out of all the pony cars that have galloped in and out of the American automotive scene throughout the past four and a half decades, none have enjoyed the lasting appeal of Mustang. And none have inspired the same degree of passion among car owners.

On Friday, April 17, 2009, Ford and the Mustang Club of America will commemorate the 45th anniversary of an American icon - the Ford Mustang - with a four-day celebration in Birmingham, Ala.

During the four weeks leading up to the Mustang's 45th anniversary, Ford will take a nostalgic look back at five historic generations of its longest-running nameplate, beginning with the early years, 1964 to 1974.

In the spring of 1964 the mood of the country is still sullen, following the 1963 assassination of John F. Kennedy. "Beatlemania" is sweeping the country, with hits like "I Want to Hold Your Hand" and "Can't Buy Me Love" at the top of the Billboard charts. The price of gas is 30 cents a gallon, and it costs 5 cents to buy a postage stamp. "The Beverly Hillbillies," "Bonanza" and the "Dick Van Dyke Show" are among the most popular shows on television, and "From Russia with Love," starring Sean Connery as James Bond, is playing at U.S. theaters.

On April 17, 1964, the Ford Mustang, with its long hood, short rear deck and sporty features, caused a sensation when it was introduced to the public at the New York World's Fair in Flushing Meadows, Queens.

"When the Mustang was unveiled, the reaction was so positive that there was no doubt it was going to be a success," recalls Joe Oros, chief designer of Ford's original pony car.

And what a success it was.

The 19641/2 Mustang debuted at a price of $2,368 - a bargain even in 1964. Ford expected annual sales of about 100,000 units. But 22,000 Mustang orders were taken on the first day, and sales reached an astounding 417,000 in the car's first 12 months on the market. Within two years, Mustang sales reached one million.

Fascination and fondness for the pony car has never ended. Maybe you can't own a 1964 classic, but your Ford Dealer will be happy to show you how equally amazing the current Mustang is.