1964: What a year to be alive in America! US swimmers blasted through 13 world records in the Tokyo Olympics. The Cardinals beat the Yankees 4-3 in the World Series. Although US President Lyndon Johnson was turning up the heat in Vietnam, the Beatles and the Ford Mustang were raising teen spirits to a fever pitch. My parents took us to the World’s Fair in New York in April 1964, where the Mustang made its first appearance in the Ford Pavilion. (It was way cooler than the ferris wheel.) The IBM Selectric typewriter (with changeable fonts) was another highlight. Secretaries longed for the new electronic office equipment, while sportsters raved over the Mustang. Named for the wild, untamed horses of the Western plains, the Mustang has been an emblem for American youth for more than 40 years. Blending flashy sportscar design with basic affordability, the Mustang appealed immediately to Americans. 22,000 sales contracts were signed the first day the Mustang became available. The initial sticker price was just under $2,500. In the four decades since its introduction, 8 million happy owners have ponied up and taken the wheel. My dad’s mom must have been one hip granny, because she was one of the first owners of a flashy convertible Mustang. It was shiny and white, with a bright red interior. The backseat was cozy, and we loved racing along with the wind blowing through our hair. We tagged along with Grandma whenever we could, just to ride in the Stang. Today, a car like Grandma’s is available online for $30,000. Now, that’s a classic! Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil