This Mustang was presented at the New York World’s Fair in 1964. 15 million people visited the exhibit during the launch of the Mustang. You can see it at Union Station in Washington, D.C. until mid-July.
Historical Debut of the Mustang
The 1965 Ford Mustang convertible became only the 38th vehicle entered into the National Register of Historic Vehicles. It earned this place thanks to a story that most Mustangs cannot boast of. This car was present at the very beginning, and then went where no other ‘pony car’ had gone.
The convertible was one of 12 Mustangs that Ford displayed at the New York World’s Fair on April 17, 1964, the day of the model’s global debut. Beyond a simple display, this car was modified to operate on Walt Disney’s special transportation system. It was placed on rails and used for 12-minute rides around the pavilion.
Impressive Success and Modernity
Ford estimated that up to 15 million people passed through the Ford pavilion during the New York World’s Fair, among them a young Jay Leno. It was the perfect platform for the Mustang, and Ford timed the presentation to airtime purchased on three major television networks that advertised the car and its starting price of $2,368.
Adjusted for inflation, that amount is $25,681.92 today. The current 2026 Mustang starts at $32,995 for the EcoBoost coupe with four cylinders and $40,440 for the convertible with the same engine.
Recognition and Exhibition
The reception of the Mustang was stunning. Over a million units were sold in just two years, with 43% of them purchased by women.
This particular 1965 Ford Mustang convertible is painted in Wimbledon White. After its launch in New York, it was sold. It now belongs to Texan Sam Peck. During its entry into the National Register of Historic Vehicles, the car will be laser-scanned, photographed, and a written report will be submitted to the Library of Congress.
Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
If you live in Washington, D.C., or plan to visit, you can see this Mustang in person. Until July 14, it will be on display as part of the ‘Driving America Forward: A Ford Experience’ exhibition in the main hall of Union Station. The free exhibition includes a range of iconic Ford models, including the 15-millionth and last Model T built, a 1928 Ford Model A roadster, a 1934 Ford pickup owned by Jay Leno, and a 1956 Ford Thunderbird, among others.
This Mustang has become not just another exhibit, but a living witness to the birth of a legend. Its entry into the register underscores how important this car was to American culture and automotive history. From participating in the World’s Fair to modern-day recognition, this convertible has traveled a path that reflects the evolution of America itself. The exhibition at Union Station offers a unique opportunity to see with your own eyes a piece of this history, which continues to inspire new generations of car enthusiasts.