Hey car enthusiasts! Ever dreamt of cruising down the open road in a classic American muscle car, the wind in your hair, and the sun on your face? If so, you've probably imagined yourself in a 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible. This iconic car isn't just a vehicle; it's a statement, a piece of history, and a symbol of freedom. This guide dives deep into everything about the '68 Mustang convertible, from its glorious history to the nitty-gritty of restoration. So, buckle up, and let's take a ride!

The 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible represents a pivotal year for the Mustang. It wasn't just a new model; it was a refinement, a subtle evolution that built upon the already successful foundation laid by its predecessors. The '68 model year brought about several changes, most notably the introduction of the longer wheelbase and the addition of more powerful engine options. The styling was tweaked to give the car a more aggressive and muscular look, which was very popular. For the convertible model, these changes enhanced the overall appeal, making it a head-turner on any street. The allure of the convertible also significantly increased its desirability, making it a favorite among those who appreciated the open-air experience. The '68 Mustang Convertible had various engine options. The most popular was the small-block V8, but there was also the option for the big-block engines, which offered even more power. These choices allowed drivers to tailor their cars to their specific needs and preferences, creating a vast array of driving experiences. Whether it was the basic model or a fully loaded one, the 1968 Mustang Convertible was a great car that was fun to drive. The interior of the '68 Mustang Convertible also received a redesign, with a more modern and driver-focused layout. The seats were redesigned for better support, and the dashboard was updated to include more gauges and a more intuitive layout. All of these details, both big and small, contributed to making the 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible an enduring classic. Its blend of classic design, raw power, and open-air experience has solidified its place as one of the most beloved cars in automotive history. For anyone interested in the beauty and thrill of vintage cars, the '68 Mustang Convertible is a good choice.

History and Significance of the 1968 Mustang Convertible

Alright, let's rewind the clock and talk about the history of the 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible. This car wasn’t just built; it was born into a pivotal moment in American automotive history. When the Mustang first hit the scene in 1964, it started a revolution. The original Mustang was a smash hit, and it created a whole new category of cars: the pony car. Ford, seeing the success, didn’t rest on its laurels. Instead, they pushed forward, constantly refining and improving the car. The 1968 model year was a key evolution. It marked the introduction of several significant changes to keep the Mustang ahead of the competition. The '68 saw a slight increase in size and a more aggressive design, making it look even more muscular and appealing. This was a response to the growing popularity of other pony cars, like the Chevy Camaro. The convertible version, with its open top, became the ultimate expression of freedom. Cruising around with the top down was a symbol of the free-spirited times, and the car became a staple in pop culture, featured in movies, music videos, and countless magazine covers. The '68 Mustang Convertible's significance extends beyond just its design and popularity. It was a reflection of the American spirit, an embodiment of the era's optimism, and an icon of the burgeoning car culture. The '68 also played a role in automotive advancements, with better handling and more powerful engine options. This particular model year is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its legacy. The '68 Mustang Convertible wasn’t just a car; it was a cultural phenomenon that has had a lasting impact on the automotive world.

Furthermore, the 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible was part of Ford's strategic effort to maintain its lead in the pony car market. By continually improving the Mustang’s design, performance, and features, Ford kept it competitive with rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird. The decision to offer a convertible version was a masterstroke, as it appealed to a wider range of customers, making the Mustang more attractive to those seeking a sporty and stylish vehicle. The '68 model year also saw the introduction of several powerful engine options, including the big-block 390 cubic-inch V8, which provided impressive performance and helped solidify the Mustang’s reputation as a muscle car. This focus on performance, coupled with the convertible’s open-air experience, created a winning formula that made the '68 Mustang Convertible an instant classic. The '68 model's influence continues to this day. Its design and performance characteristics have inspired numerous modern vehicles and continue to be revered by automotive enthusiasts worldwide. The 1968 Mustang Convertible is still considered one of the best examples of American automotive design, and its influence can still be seen in the design of modern cars. The legacy of the '68 is a testament to the success of Ford's design team and the popularity of the Mustang line.

Notable Features and Specifications

Let’s dive into what made the 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible stand out. First off, its design. Ford didn't just tweak the '68; they gave it a bolder, more aggressive stance. It had a longer wheelbase and sleeker lines. The convertible top, of course, was the real star of the show. It folded down neatly, turning the car into the perfect cruiser for sunny days. The interior was also upgraded. The '68 Mustang had a more modern dashboard layout, and the seats were designed for improved comfort and support. Plus, there were more gauges and features, making it more driver-friendly. One of the most important aspects of the car was the engine options. Ford offered a range of engines, from the reliable small-block V8 to the powerful big-block 390 cubic-inch V8. The engine you chose defined your driving experience. The 390 V8 provided serious power and performance, solidifying the Mustang’s place in muscle car history. The suspension and handling were also improved in 1968, making the car more responsive and enjoyable to drive. The '68 Mustang Convertible was about more than just looks; it was about performance, too. The '68 Mustang Convertible was built to be a great car to drive. The combination of its powerful engine options, improved handling, and open-air experience made it a classic that is still admired today. The interior's modern dashboard and supportive seats created a comfortable driving experience. The '68 model's diverse engine options, from the reliable small-block V8 to the powerful big-block 390 cubic-inch V8, provided drivers with choices to meet their needs.

If you're looking to own one, here are the key specs you'll want to know. The engine options were varied, with the 289 cubic inch V8 or the larger 390 cubic inch V8 being very popular. The 390 was the star, especially if you wanted some serious muscle. The convertible came with a three-speed automatic or a four-speed manual transmission. The manual gave you a lot more control, while the automatic was more relaxed for cruising. The car’s dimensions changed slightly with the longer wheelbase. The body was slightly longer and wider, contributing to the aggressive styling. All of these details make the '68 Mustang Convertible a standout car. It’s a testament to the engineering and design that went into the car. The '68 Mustang Convertible's blend of powerful engine options, improved handling, and open-air experience made it a classic that is still admired today. The interior's modern dashboard and supportive seats created a comfortable driving experience.

Restoration: Bringing a 1968 Mustang Convertible Back to Life

So, you’ve got a 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible and want to restore it? Awesome! Restoration is a journey, and it's super rewarding. Here’s a breakdown of what you should expect. First, the evaluation. You need to assess the car’s condition. This means looking at everything – the body, the engine, the interior, the electrical system. The bodywork is one of the most time-consuming parts. Rust is the enemy, so you'll probably need to repair or replace panels. The engine rebuild is where the magic happens. You’ll take the engine apart, clean the parts, and replace the worn ones. The interior often needs a complete makeover. New seats, carpets, and a dashboard restoration can make a massive difference. The electrical system might need some love, too. Old wiring can be a fire hazard, so you may need to replace it. A good restoration can take hundreds of hours, and possibly thousands of dollars, depending on the car's condition and how far you go with the restoration. But trust me, seeing your restored '68 Mustang Convertible is worth the time and effort.

When it comes to the restoration process, you’ll want to start with a detailed plan and a budget. Decide how far you want to go. Do you want a full, ground-up restoration, or are you aiming for a more driver-quality restoration? The choices you make will affect the time and money spent on the project. Once you have a plan, you can begin the disassembly. Take lots of photos as you go. This will help you remember how everything goes back together. The next step is to tackle the bodywork. This often involves removing rust, repairing dents, and repainting the car. This can be time-consuming, but the bodywork is the foundation of the whole project. After the bodywork, you’ll focus on the engine rebuild. It can involve everything from cleaning parts to replacing the engine. You can then move to the interior, where you'll be fixing or replacing the seats, carpeting, and dashboard. Be patient and take your time. If you do not have experience, it’s often smart to seek professional help. The goal is to bring the car back to its original glory. Finding parts can be a challenge. The good news is that there’s a big community of Mustang enthusiasts. They are a good source for parts and advice. Online forums, classic car clubs, and dedicated Mustang parts suppliers can be lifesavers. The '68 Mustang Convertible can be challenging. However, the experience of bringing a classic car back to life is an amazing experience.

Restoration is all about bringing a classic car back to life. With the right plan, effort, and possibly some professional help, you can have a truly amazing car. The engine rebuild is where the magic happens. The bodywork is a crucial stage. The interior transformation is often needed, with new seats, carpets, and dashboard. All these details contribute to the overall appeal and value of the restoration.

Common Restoration Challenges and Solutions

Let’s be honest, restoring a 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible isn’t always a walk in the park. There are some common challenges you’ll probably run into, but don’t worry, there are solutions! One of the biggest challenges is rust. It can eat away at the body, and it's a very common issue on older cars. The solution is to identify and remove all rust, repair damaged panels, and apply rust protection to prevent future issues. Finding original or high-quality reproduction parts can be difficult. The good news is that the Mustang is a very popular car, so there are many suppliers of parts. Doing your research will make things much easier. Electrical problems can be a headache, too. Old wiring can be brittle and unreliable. The solution is to replace it with a new wiring harness. Then you can have peace of mind. Engine problems can also be a challenge. You will need to rebuild or replace the engine. The solution is to rebuild the engine, which can involve cleaning, replacing worn parts, and balancing for optimal performance. Interior restoration can present a unique set of challenges. Reupholstering the seats, replacing the carpets, and restoring the dashboard can be time-consuming. However, the result can transform the look and feel of the car. Bodywork is also a major aspect of the restoration process. You will need to prepare the body for paint. Rust removal is the most common task, and you may need to repair panels, too. Patience, a good work ethic, and the support of the community are important. Even when things get tough, remember the end goal: a beautifully restored 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible. It will be worth it!

When you run into these problems, make sure you take some precautions. Start by creating a detailed plan and budget. Prioritize your tasks. Then, break down the project into manageable steps. This will help you stay focused and avoid getting overwhelmed. Research and gather all of the necessary parts before starting each phase of the project. This will help you avoid delays. Many online forums and clubs exist where you can get answers to your questions. Use those resources! Take your time, don’t rush, and enjoy the process. Restoring a '68 Mustang Convertible can be challenging, but with the right mindset and preparation, you can achieve amazing results. There are many challenges and solutions, but the most important thing is that the community is there to help and support you.

Driving and Maintaining Your 1968 Mustang Convertible

So, you’ve restored your 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible. Now, it's time to enjoy it! Driving a classic car is different from driving a modern car. So, here are some tips. First, you should warm up the engine properly before you drive off. The engine will thank you. Get to know the car’s quirks. Old cars have personalities, and the Mustang is no exception. It may be slightly different from modern cars. Take it easy at first and get used to the car’s handling. When it comes to maintenance, regular upkeep is key. Change the oil and filter regularly, check the fluids, and keep an eye on the tire pressure. Inspect the brakes, suspension, and steering system regularly. This will ensure your safety. Store your car properly during winter. If you live in a place with harsh winters, you may want to store your car indoors. This will protect it from the elements and keep it in good condition. Consider joining a classic car club. These clubs are a great way to meet other enthusiasts, get advice, and find parts. Driving your classic car is a rewarding experience. It's a way to connect with history and share your passion with others.

Regular maintenance is crucial to keep your 1968 Ford Mustang Convertible in tip-top shape. You'll want to change the oil and filter regularly, as this will help keep the engine clean and running smoothly. Check the fluids. The coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid should be checked regularly. Inspect the tires and keep them properly inflated. This improves the car's handling and safety. Regular brake inspections are a must. Make sure the brakes are in good working order. The suspension and steering system should be checked to ensure that the car handles properly. Keep your Mustang clean. This includes washing, waxing, and detailing. This will protect the paint and body and help the car look its best. Store your car properly. This will keep it in good condition. Join a classic car club, and learn from other enthusiasts. A well-maintained Mustang is a joy to drive. Your classic Mustang will provide you with years of pleasure if you take care of it.

The '68 Mustang Convertible is an iconic car. By following these maintenance tips and enjoying your car, you can keep the spirit of the Mustang alive for years to come. Driving a classic car is rewarding, and it allows you to connect with a piece of automotive history. You can share your passion with other enthusiasts. Enjoy the journey, the car, and the timeless appeal of the '68 Mustang Convertible. The goal is simple, enjoy the ride, and keep the legend alive.