From the Wild West to the Wild Coast: A History of the Mustang in South Africa
The Ford Mustang is more than just a car, it’s a cultural phenomenon. While it was born on the streets of Dearborn, Michigan, in 1964, its soul found a second home right here in Mzansi. For decades, South Africans admired the “Pony Car” from afar, but the local story is far deeper than just the modern models we see today. Let’s take a gallop through the history of the Mustang in South Africa.
The 1960s: A Rare Breed
When Lee Iacocca unveiled the Mustang at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, the world went mad. South Africa wasn’t left behind, in 1965, Ford South Africa showcased the all-new Mustang during a national roadshow. While Ford didn’t mass-produce them locally back then, they were available as “luxury imports.” If you had the import tax and a taste for V8 power, you could secure a Poppy Red Fastback or a convertible. They were rare, they were left-hand drive, and they were the ultimate status symbol on the newly built Kyalami circuit.
The “Perana” Influence (The 1970s & 80s)
Because the Mustang wasn’t officially mass-sold here for decades, South Africans did what they do best, they innovated. Local legend Basil Green created the Capri Perana V8, using the Mustang’s 5.0L Windsor V8 engine. Later, in the 1980s, Ford SA gave us the Sierra XR8, affectionately known as “The Animal.” It featured the same 5.0L V8 found in the Mustang of that era. For a long time, these locally bred monsters were the closest things we had to a factory Mustang on our showroom floors.
The 2015 Revolution: The Pony Finally Arrives
After 50 years of waiting, the dream finally came true. As part of Ford’s “One Ford” global strategy, the sixth generation (S550) Mustang was produced in right-hand drive (RHD) for the first time. Fast forward to today, and the legend is only getting louder. The seventh generation (S650) Mustang has officially touched down on South African soil, bringing with it a digital-forward cockpit and the most powerful naturally aspirated Coyote V8 yet. The real talk of the town? The Mustang Dark Horse. With its sinister styling and track focused suspension, it’s a clear message that while the world moves toward electrification, the Mustang’s V8 roar isn’t going anywhere without a fight.
Why South Africa Loves the Mustang?
In a country that loves the open road and the sound of a “braai-side” V8, the Mustang fits our DNA perfectly. It represents freedom, a bit of rebellion, and a lot of noise exactly how we like it.
Here’s to many years more of the Legendary Ford Mustang, Visit CMH Kempster Ford Durban today and experience captivating service for yourself.
- Call us now: 031 313 0800
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