Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the fascinating world of a true American icon – the 1968 Mustang California Special. This isn't just any Mustang; it's a limited-edition beauty with a unique story and a style that screams cool. If you're a fan of classic cars, or just love a good automotive tale, buckle up and get ready for a ride!

What Makes the 1968 Mustang California Special So Special?

The 1968 Mustang California Special, often affectionately called the 'GT/CS', was born out of a desire to boost Mustang sales in, you guessed it, California! Ford dealerships in the Golden State wanted something that would capture the spirit of the Shelby Mustangs but at a more accessible price point. The idea was to create a Mustang that looked like a Shelby but didn't carry the same hefty price tag or high-performance engine. The California Special was the brainchild of this vision, and it quickly became a hit.

One of the most distinctive features of the 1968 Mustang California Special is its unique styling. Unlike the standard Mustang, the GT/CS boasted several visual modifications that set it apart. These included fiberglass side scoops, a rear spoiler, twist-lock hood fasteners, and unique taillights borrowed from the Shelby Mustang. The blacked-out grille and fog lights added to its aggressive, sporty appearance. These features combined to give the California Special a distinct and desirable look that still turns heads today.

Beyond its aesthetics, the 1968 Mustang California Special also holds a special place in automotive history due to its limited production numbers. Only around 4,118 of these cars were ever made, making them relatively rare and highly sought after by collectors. The rarity of the GT/CS adds to its allure and makes it a valuable piece of Mustang heritage. Imagine owning a piece of automotive history that not everyone can get their hands on! That's the appeal of the California Special.

Did you know? The California Special was initially intended to be a one-year-only model. However, due to its popularity, Ford decided to produce a similar version in 1969, known as the 'High Country Special', which was marketed in specific regions outside of California. This further cements the 1968 GT/CS as the original and arguably the most iconic of these regional Mustang variations.

Decoding the Details: Key Features of the '68 GT/CS

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty details that made the 1968 Mustang California Special stand out from the crowd. We're talking about the specific design elements and features that defined this iconic car. Knowing these details can help you identify an authentic GT/CS and appreciate the thought and craftsmanship that went into its creation.

Exterior Highlights

• Fiberglass Side Scoops: One of the most recognizable features of the California Special is the non-functional fiberglass side scoops located just behind the doors. These scoops added a touch of sportiness and aggression to the Mustang's profile, mimicking the look of the Shelby Mustangs. They were purely cosmetic but made a significant visual impact.
• Rear Spoiler: The rear spoiler, also borrowed from the Shelby, further enhanced the car's sporty appearance. It wasn't just for show; it also provided a subtle aerodynamic benefit, although its primary purpose was to improve the car's aesthetics. The spoiler added to the car's sleek lines and gave it a more aggressive stance.
• Twist-Lock Hood Fasteners: These visually striking fasteners, located on the hood, added a racy, motorsport-inspired touch. While they looked like functional racing hardware, they were mostly for show on the California Special. They contributed to the car's overall sporty and aggressive appearance.
• Shelby Taillights: The California Special used the same taillights as the Shelby Mustang, featuring sequential turn signals. These taillights were a distinctive feature that set the car apart from the standard Mustang. The sequential turn signals were a cool and unique touch that added to the car's overall appeal.
• Blacked-Out Grille: The GT/CS featured a blacked-out grille with integrated fog lights, giving the car a more menacing and aggressive front end. The blacked-out treatment contrasted nicely with the car's body color, making the fog lights stand out and adding to the car's sporty look.

Interior Touches

While the exterior of the 1968 Mustang California Special received the most attention, the interior also had some unique touches. These included special badging and trim options that differentiated it from the standard Mustang. While not as dramatic as the exterior changes, these interior enhancements added to the car's overall appeal and exclusivity.

• GT/CS Badging: The interior featured special GT/CS badging on the dashboard and seats, reminding occupants that they were in something special. These badges were a subtle but important detail that added to the car's overall sense of exclusivity.
• Optional Décor Group: Many California Specials were equipped with the optional décor group, which included features like woodgrain trim and special upholstery. This added a touch of luxury and refinement to the interior, making the car feel more upscale.

Under the Hood

Unlike the Shelby Mustangs, the 1968 Mustang California Special wasn't about high-performance engines. It was more about style and appearance. As such, the GT/CS was available with a range of engine options, from the base inline-six to the more powerful V8s. This allowed buyers to choose an engine that suited their needs and budget.

• Engine Options: Engine options included the 289 cubic inch V8, the 302 cubic inch V8, and the larger 390 cubic inch V8. While the GT/CS wasn't specifically designed for high performance, the V8 engines provided plenty of power for spirited driving.

Why the '68 GT/CS Still Matters Today

So, why are we still talking about the 1968 Mustang California Special decades later? What makes this car so enduring and desirable? Well, there are several reasons why the GT/CS continues to capture the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world.

Rarity and Collectibility

As mentioned earlier, the 1968 Mustang California Special was produced in limited numbers, making it a relatively rare and collectible car. This rarity adds to its appeal and makes it a valuable piece of automotive history. Collectors are always on the lookout for well-preserved or restored examples of the GT/CS, driving up their value.

Unique Styling

The distinctive styling of the 1968 Mustang California Special sets it apart from other Mustangs of the era. Its fiberglass side scoops, rear spoiler, and Shelby taillights give it a unique and aggressive look that still turns heads today. This unique styling is a major factor in its enduring popularity.

Historical Significance

The 1968 Mustang California Special represents a unique chapter in Mustang history. It was a regional marketing experiment that turned into a resounding success, demonstrating the power of localized marketing and the appeal of special-edition vehicles. Its historical significance makes it an important part of Mustang lore.

Investment Potential

Classic cars, like the 1968 Mustang California Special, can be a solid investment. As these cars become rarer and more desirable, their value tends to increase over time. A well-maintained or restored GT/CS can be a valuable asset, providing both enjoyment and potential financial gain.

Finding Your Own California Special

Dreaming of owning a 1968 Mustang California Special? Well, finding one can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. Here are some tips to help you on your quest:

• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay, Hemmings, and ClassicCars.com are great places to start your search. You can browse listings from all over the country and even internationally.
• Classic Car Auctions: Auctions like Barrett-Jackson and Mecum often feature rare and desirable cars, including the California Special. Attending these auctions can be a great way to find a GT/CS and see it in person.
• Mustang Clubs and Forums: Joining a Mustang club or online forum can connect you with other enthusiasts who may know of California Specials for sale. These communities can also provide valuable information and advice.
• Be Patient: Finding the right 1968 Mustang California Special may take time, so be patient and don't rush into a purchase. Take your time to research and inspect any potential cars thoroughly.

Preserving a Legacy

The 1968 Mustang California Special is more than just a car; it's a piece of automotive history. Whether you're a seasoned collector or simply an admirer, the GT/CS deserves to be appreciated and preserved for future generations. Its unique styling, limited production numbers, and historical significance make it a true American icon.

So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the world of the 1968 Mustang California Special. Hopefully, you've gained a newfound appreciation for this timeless classic. Happy cruising!