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Question: What is a “K-Code” Mustang?
Answer: Ah, the popular K-code Mustang question. Well, the simple answer is the K-Code was a 1965-1967 Mustang that came from the factory with a special 289 High Performance cubic-inch engine beneath its hood.
Buyers of the GT Equipment Package could add the K-code to their new ride for an extra $276 back in 1965. The cost to add this engine to new Mustangs without the GT package was $328. The “K” represented the engine code on the VIN number of these Mustangs. The K-Code engine was first introduced by Ford in 1963, and was featured in cars such as the Fairlane and the Comet.
Each K-Code Mustang had a special badge on their front fenders that read “HIGH PERFORMANCE 289”. No doubt about it, the K-Code Mustang was all performance. In fact, K-Code Mustangs were not available with air conditioning or power steering. And you couldn’t buy one with an automatic transmission until the 1966 model year. Prior to that K-Code Mustangs were 4-speed only. The car also came with a shorter warranty than the typical Mustang. K-Code buyers were looking at a 3 month or 4,000 mile warranty instead of the standard 12 month or 12,000 miles plan. I guess the folks at Ford figured most people who purchased the car would put it through its paces on a daily basis, and they were probably right.
People often ask how the K-Code engine was different from the other D,C, and A code 289 engines featured in 1965-1967 Mustangs. Well, once again, think performance. For starters this engine featured upgraded pistons, cylinder heads, carburetor, lifter heads, and connecting rods. In addition, one look under the hood and you’d notice the chrome air cleaner and valve covers. Oh, and we can’t forget the “289 High Performance” lettering atop the air cleaner. With an estimated 271 hp at its disposal, it was easy to tell this car from other 289 powered Mustangs of the day.
But wait, there’s more. The differences didn’t stop there. In fact, the entire driveline of these cars was designed for performance. We’re talking about a high-performance clutch, drive shaft, rear differential, and suspension. It’s no wonder Shelby put the engine in his racing performance GT350 Mustangs. In fact, the first Shelby Mustang, the Shelby GT350R featured a modified K-Code engine.
These days collectors of the Ford Mustang look back fondly on the K-Code. As such, they are highly sought after. Unfortunately only a limited number of these engines were produced between 1963-1967, and even fewer K-code Mustangs (About 13,214). If you own one, you own a valued piece of history. If you want one, join the club.
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