the American Dream: Ford Mustang by ric gustafson
In the early 1960's, Ford was doing a lot of market research. The data showed that a youth boom was about to happen. During this time period, Americans between ages 15 and 19 would increase by 41 percent.
In April 1964, Ford introduced a new car. It was aimed at the youth and had a sporty style like the British roadsters. It's price was affordable at under $2,500 and was large enough for a family of four. This new car was called the Mustang.
In November 1960, a young man by the name of Lee Iacocca started at Ford. He was born in Allentown Pennsylvania and got a master's degree in mechanical engineering. One of his first ideas was to sell cars on an installment plan. In 1960, The Falcon was introduced and was a big seller that year. In 1961, Iacocca came up with the idea that became the Mustang. He wanted a poor man's Thunderbird that would be lightweight, sporty and reasonable price wise.
When the Mustang debuted in the spring of 1964, it was a hit. It's price was under the $2,500 and sported extras including floor carpeting and bucket seats. In the year 1964, more than 263,000 Mustangs were sold. It featured floor mounted gear shifting and a six cylinder Falcon engine. In 1966, 549,436 Mustangs were sold.
By the late 1960's, sales of Mustangs declined. The Plymouth Barracuda and the Chevrolet Camaro were coming out and were gaining sales.
research help: ' Engines of Change' by Paul Ingrassia
Peace and God's blessings. Love Ric
No comments:
Post a Comment