Description
The Ford Mustang 250 was introduced in 1969 as part of the first-generation Mustang lineup, offering buyers a step up from the base six-cylinder models without moving into full V8 territory. Equipped with a 250 cubic inch inline-six engine, it provided more power and torque than the smaller 200 cubic inch six, making it a practical and affordable choice for drivers who wanted smoother, stronger performance but were also conscious of fuel economy and insurance costs.
Visually, the Mustang 250 looked much like its V8 and smaller six-cylinder counterparts. It was available in coupe, fastback, and convertible body styles, all of which shared the sleek lines, long hood, and short rear deck proportions that had become the Mustang’s signature. Buyers could add styling options such as stripes, vinyl roofs, styled steel wheels, or upgraded trim packages to make their cars stand out. This flexibility meant that the 250 could look as basic or as sporty as the customer desired.
Inside, the Mustang 250 was outfitted with the same cabin as other models, featuring bucket seats and a floor-mounted shifter as standard equipment. The interior could be kept simple and functional or upgraded with the deluxe “Pony” interior package, which included embossed seatbacks, wood-grain dash inserts, and more upscale trim. Options such as air conditioning, Rally-Pac gauges, radios, and consoles were also available, allowing buyers to tailor the car to their preferences.
The 250 cubic inch inline-six produced around 155 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, figures that placed it comfortably above the 120-horsepower 200 cubic inch six but still well below the V8s. Paired with either a three-speed manual, four-speed manual, or C4 automatic transmission, the engine offered smoother performance and better drivability than the base six. While not a performance powerhouse, the 250 provided enough power for confident highway driving and everyday use, appealing to buyers who wanted more than the bare minimum but did not need the expense or fuel consumption of a V8.
On the road, the Mustang 250 offered balanced performance for its class. It was not designed to compete with the higher-output V8s, but its extra torque made it a more flexible and enjoyable engine than the smaller six. It retained the Mustang’s sporty character in terms of looks and feel, but with lower running costs and insurance premiums, making it attractive to younger buyers and families alike.
Priced between the base 200 six-cylinder and the entry-level V8s, the Mustang 250 carved out a niche in the lineup as a sensible yet stylish option. It allowed Ford to appeal to a wide spectrum of customers, from those seeking affordability to those wanting prestige without stretching their budget too far.
Today, the Ford Mustang 250 is remembered as an often-overlooked but important model in the Mustang family. While collectors tend to focus on the V8-powered cars, the 250 has gained interest among enthusiasts who appreciate its role as a practical and usable version of the classic pony car. Surviving examples highlight the Mustang’s versatility, demonstrating how it could successfully blend economy, performance, and style in a way that appealed to a broad range of buyers.