1968 Ford Mustang GT California Special — Acapulco Blue

The 1968 Ford Mustang California Special is a masterclass in regional branding, but seeing one finished in Acapulco Blue elevates it to an entirely different level of cool. Born from a partnership between Ford and West Coast dealers who wanted their own slice of Shelby magic, the GT/CS was a limited-edition pony car inspired by the legendary Shelby prototypes — built specifically for the sun-soaked boulevards of Southern California. The deep, shimmering metallic blue captures the depth of the Pacific itself, providing the perfect canvas for the aggressive Shelby-style appointments that make this Mustang instantly recognizable to anyone who knows their pony car history.

**Signature California Special Details**

The aerodynamic enhancements set the tone the moment you walk up: an integrated rear fiberglass spoiler and the iconic non-functional side scoops give this Mustang a purposeful, race-ready stance that standard 1968 fastbacks and coupes simply can't match. The blackout treatment is pure California cool — a blacked-out grille notably absent of the traditional galloping horse emblem, paired with unique side striping that runs the length of the body, creating sharp contrast against the metallic blue paint. Out back, the GT/CS sports its most distinctive party trick: wide, horizontal sequential taillights borrowed from the 1965 Thunderbird, sweeping from inside to out with each turn signal activation in a hypnotic display that still draws crowds at every cruise night.

Climb inside and the blue-on-blue interior configuration creates a seamless, immersive cockpit experience. The monochromatic aesthetic feels both sophisticated and unapologetically 1960s — a confident design statement from an era when American automakers weren't afraid to commit fully to a color palette. Every surface speaks to the GT/CS's elevated position above the standard Mustang lineup, with thoughtful trim details and that unmistakable late-60s vibe throughout.

Under the hood resides the matching-numbers 289 cubic inch V8, paired with an automatic transmission for relaxed cruising duty. The 289 remains one of Ford's most beloved small blocks — smooth, responsive, and possessing that classic V8 soundtrack that defined a generation of American performance.

With only around 4,118 GT/CS units produced for 1968, the California Special remains one of the most collectible variants of the first-generation Mustang. This isn't just a car — it's a piece of California's golden era on wheels, ready to make a statement wherever it goes.

Come see it in person at Motor City Classic Cars in Vero Beach, FL.

Unless stated otherwise, mileage shown on the odometer is exempt and unknown if original.