Description
The Ford Mustang Convertible GT with the 271-horsepower V8 and automatic transmission was one of the most exciting yet approachable pony cars of the mid-1960s. Introduced in 1965, this version was equipped with the famous 289 cubic inch High Performance V8, better known as the “K-code” engine. It was the most powerful small-block available in the early Mustang lineup, delivering 271 horsepower at 6,000 rpm, and when combined with the convertible body style and the GT package, it offered buyers a stylish open-air car with genuine muscle car performance.
The exterior of the GT Convertible was instantly recognizable. GT models featured fog lamps integrated into the grille, dual exhausts with bright chrome tips, GT badging, and side stripes that ran along the lower body. Styled steel wheels were a common option, and the convertible top—available in manual or power-operated form—gave the car a versatile personality. With the roof up, it looked elegant and purposeful, and with the roof down, it became one of the most glamorous cars of its era.
Inside, the GT Convertible offered the same driver-focused cabin as other Mustangs, with bucket seats, a floor-mounted shifter, and a simple but sporty dashboard layout. Buyers could upgrade to the deluxe “Pony” interior, which added embossed seat designs, wood-grain trim, and more upscale details. Convenience options such as Rally-Pac gauges, air conditioning, and premium radios made the convertible as comfortable as it was fast. The combination of open-air driving and the strong V8 soundtrack made it a uniquely thrilling experience compared to the coupe or fastback.
At its heart was the 289 High Performance “K-code” engine. Featuring a solid-lifter camshaft, heavy-duty internals, a four-barrel carburetor, and a 10.5:1 compression ratio, it was designed to rev high and produce serious power. Officially rated at 271 horsepower, many believed it was underrated, and in real-world performance, it gave the Mustang the ability to accelerate from 0–60 mph in around seven seconds. While the K-code was most commonly paired with the four-speed manual, it could also be ordered with Ford’s C4 automatic transmission, which made it easier and more comfortable for everyday driving while still retaining strong performance.
The GT package ensured that the car had the handling and braking to match its power. Front disc brakes came as part of the package, along with a stiffer suspension and quicker steering. These upgrades gave the GT 289 Convertible a more controlled and confident feel on the road compared to non-GT Mustangs, though like most cars of the era, it was still tuned more for straight-line speed than sharp cornering.
Priced higher than the six-cylinder or base V8 Mustangs, the 271-horsepower GT Convertible appealed to enthusiasts who wanted both style and performance. It was not as common as the standard 289 or six-cylinder convertibles, making it more exclusive and more closely aligned with serious drivers who valued horsepower and prestige.
Today, the Ford Mustang Convertible GT 271 HP with automatic transmission is considered a rare and highly desirable classic. The K-code engine was produced in relatively low numbers compared to other V8s, and combining it with the convertible body style and GT package makes surviving examples especially collectible. Restored models are prized for their performance heritage and their association with the Mustang’s earliest years, when it transitioned from a fashionable coupe to a legitimate performance icon. This combination of power, open-air style, and everyday usability captures the essence of the golden age of the pony car.