Few cars have the power to stop people in their tracks like the 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback. It’s one of those rare classics that combines aggressive styling, musclecar performance, and timeless cool into one unforgettable ride. Whether you’re spotting one at a car show, hearing the rumble of its V8 on the road, or lucky enough to own one, the 1968 Fastback stands tall as a symbol of American automotive history.
Let’s dive into why this particular year and model still makes enthusiasts—and even casual fans—fall in love.
A Year That Defined the Ford Mustang Fastback
The late ‘60s were a golden era for Classic Cars, but 1968 hit especially hard. It was the year Steve McQueen famously tore through the streets of San Francisco in Bullitt, making the Highland Green Mustang Fastback a pop culture legend. But even beyond the movie magic, the 1968 Fastback saw meaningful upgrades over its predecessor, making it one of the most desirable versions of the Ford Mustang Fastback lineup.
Ford knew what they were doing. The 1968 model retained the sporty, aggressive silhouette of the ’67 but featured cleaner lines, new safety upgrades, and options that allowed it to be tailored for the street or the track.
The Fastback Body: Beauty Meets Function
The Fastback design isn’t just about looks—though, let’s be honest, it’s drop-dead gorgeous. The sloping roofline not only gave it an aerodynamic edge but made it look like it was built for speed, even when parked. That aggressive profile gave it a presence few cars could rival then—or now.
Compared to the Ford Mustang Convertible or hardtop coupe, the Fastback offered a more unified, flowing design that musclecar fans couldn’t resist. And when combined with a front grille that looked like it was ready to eat other cars for breakfast, it cemented its place in the musclecar hall of fame.
Under the Hood: Power Your Way
Here’s where things get even more interesting. The 1968 Mustang Fastback came with a buffet of engine options—from the modest 200 cubic inch inline-six to the brutish 428 Cobra Jet. Whether you were looking for a smooth cruiser or a fire-breathing street fighter, Ford had you covered.
Some drivers opted for a manual transmission, taking full control of their ride with a speed manual setup that put power directly in their hands. Others preferred the ease of an automatic transmission, especially for everyday driving. Either way, the performance delivered.
Let’s not forget the Power Steering option—something that makes a noticeable difference when maneuvering this beast. While purists might favor the raw feel of manual steering, most will agree that having power-assisted control only adds to the driving pleasure.
A Musclecar Built for the Street… or the Track
The versatility of the 1968 Mustang Fastback is what makes it such a standout. It was just as at home in the city as it was at the drag strip. Some builds leaned toward the comfort side, with plush interiors and automatic transmissions. Others stripped things down and beefed up the motor to create true Race Cars—ready to roar down the quarter mile.
And even today, people still modify these classics to squeeze out more power or convert them into modern restomods. That tells you everything you need to know about the enduring appeal of this platform.
Behind the Wheel: A True Driver’s Car
Step into the cockpit, and you’re instantly transported. The dash layout, the analog gauges, the long hood stretching out in front of you—it all makes you feel like you’re in control of something powerful. And you are.
Whether you’re rowing through a 4-speed manual or letting the automatic transmission do the work, the 1968 Fastback delivers a driving experience that’s raw, visceral, and just plain fun. It’s the kind of car that makes a trip to the grocery store feel like a movie scene.
And if you’ve got the Power Steering setup, you’ll appreciate how much smoother the handling is compared to some of the earlier Mustangs. Combine that with its balanced weight and you’ve got a musclecar that handles as well as it hauls.
Value & Investment: Why the 1968 Fastback Is Still Climbing
Classic Cars go through waves of popularity, but the 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback has remained in high demand for years. Original models in pristine condition, especially those with V8 engines and factory options, can command serious money at auctions. And if it’s a Bullitt-style build? Even more.
Restored or restomodded examples also retain strong value, especially when upgraded tastefully with modern components like disc brakes, fuel injection, or improved suspension—all while keeping the soul of the classic intact.
If you’re thinking of getting into the Classic Cars scene, a Fastback is one of the smartest investments you can make. It’s not just about dollars and cents—it’s about emotion, status, and owning a piece of history.
Comparing the 1968 Fastback to Other Mustangs
You might be wondering: how does the 1968 Fastback compare to something like a Ford Mustang Convertible or earlier models?
It comes down to what you want. The convertible gives you open-air freedom and a bit more flair, but it sacrifices some of that tight, muscular appearance the Fastback owns. The earlier models like the ’65 or ’66 are a little lighter, but they don’t offer the same refinement or aggressive stance. And when you step into the 1969-70 era, the Mustang started growing in size, losing a bit of the lean look that defined the Fastback era.
So, if you’re looking for the sweet spot—style, performance, and collectability—the 1968 Mustang Fastback hits all the right notes.
Final Thoughts: Why This Car Still Matters
At the end of the day, the 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback isn’t just a car—it’s a statement. It’s about heritage. It’s about rebellion. It’s about muscle. For gearheads, collectors, and casual fans alike, it continues to be one of the most beloved American musclecars of all time.
Whether you’re hunting one down, building your dream garage, or just dreaming with a poster on the wall, the ’68 Fastback is always worth a second look.
