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Ford Mustang 289 HiPo
Most of the market was fascinated when they first saw the Mustang in 1964. They came with compact and sporty looks, long hoods and short decks at an affordable price that seemed unreal. But there was a small portion of knowledgeable car enthusiasts who were disappointed. The reason was the technology and engine choices. The Mustang shared modest underpinnings with the economy Falcon.
Its engine lineup included mild versions of inline six and small V8 units. The power output was nothing special, so the performance was somewhat below expectations. Ford responded by hiring Carroll Shelby and producing an almost racing-ready GT 350 in 1965. But for those who couldn’t live with a screaming 306 HP 289 V8 engine in the GT 350, Ford prepared an interesting engine they called the K-Code. The K-Code was a 289 V8 but with a milder, more street-friendly tune delivering 271 HP.
And it was more than enough for the decent performance Mustang fans expected. With the optional GT package that included a stiffer suspension, updated equipment and lots of exterior details, the 289 High Power or HiPo was the top choice. Ford introduced it in 1965 and it was available until 1967. The 289 HiPo was the first Mustang that ran as well as it looked, especially if you ordered it in the gorgeous Fastback body style.