The 10 Worst Mustang Colors
Last Updated April 16, 2024 | C.J. TragakisLooking at all of the paint colors offered throughout the Mustang’s history, there were sure to be some duds. Paint colors that were ok in their own right, but didn’t suit the Mustang. Maybe they were too much a product of their time, or perhaps they simply didn’t work for a pony car.
In this lighthearted guide, we’re taking a look back at some of the “worst” colors offered on the Ford Mustang.
Eastertime Coral (1968)
The April 1968 Color of the Month, Eastertime Coral is one color that could make any Mustang stand apart from the rest. It was used in the Rainbow of Colors promotion and also called Caribbean Coral at one point.
The problem with Eastertime Coral is the flatness of the color. It looks a little too much like pink putty rather than coral. The only place it might look truly at home is cruising down an oceanside boulevard in Miami.
Medium Brown (1971)
Shades of brown will always be contentious for cars and are probably best suited to trucks and SUVs. But with the 1970s underway, designers tried all sorts of everyday shades that could have been inspired by shag carpet. It’s certainly evocative of the era, but it’s not a color we’d want to see on any modern Mustangs.
Dark Yellow Green (1974)
When it comes to the '70s, green was almost as popular as brown. And Dark Yellow Green Mustang IIs prove that not all greens look amazing on the Mustang. Also called Hatteras Green, this shade certainly transports you back to another time.
Mimosa Yellow (1988)
In the ‘80s, Mimosa Yellow (also called Tropical Yellow) offered a super-pale color that looked like it had already faded in the sun. It’s a delicate, almost sickly color, one that certainly doesn’t belong on a performance car. For some, this might be the worst of the bunch.
Dark Satin Green (1998)
Dark Satin Green was only offered for 1998, the final year of the first-iteration SN95. This is probably the nicest color on the list. There’s nothing especially wrong with it, but it’s too dark to stand out as a nice green. Most people will probably just think it’s black unless they look closely. It doesn’t have the depth of shade like Dark Highland Green or Guard, making it a very forgettable color.
Passionate Pink (1968)
Passionate Pink, also called Hot Pink, was fittingly chosen as the February 1968 Color of the Month. However, this Valentine’s Day shade might prove to be too daring for some. Not to be confused with Playmate Pink, the Passionate Pink shade was lighter. It looked very much like bubblegum, which some would argue is not befitting the Mustang. But for those that want to stand out, it will certainly catch plenty of eyes.
Purple Metallic (1967)
Purple cars are tough to get right. Of the American auto manufacturers, Mopar is usually the one to get bold with grape and royal purple shades (think of Plum Crazy on the Dodge Challenger).
However, in 1967 Ford offered the Mustang in Purple Metallic. Being a metallic color, this shade of Mustang had a sheen that stood out. It was only offered for one year and is arguably the only true purple ever to grace the Mustang. We don’t think it quite works, but the rarity of the color does add intrigue.
Honey Gold (1965)
Despite only being offered in 1965, Honey Gold looks like it belongs in the later Malaise Era. It’s an awkward look for the lines of the classic Mustang, much more befitting of a Buick. It almost looks like unfinished metal in some ways. But for those bold enough to embrace the ‘60s style of this color, it can be a fun one to own.
Tropic Green (2003)
Tropic Green has a toy army soldier appearance that looks just slightly off on the New Edge Mustang. Perhaps the metallic finish is too glossy, or there’s just a bit too much turquoise. We’d either prefer something darker and more matte, or brighter and more yellow.
Groovy Green (1969)
Last, but certainly not least, is the 1969 Mustang’s Groovy Green. With a name like that, you might instantly think of the original Woodstock Festival or psychedelic van paint jobs. And rightly so, as this highlighter green definitely earns its name.
An acid lime with plenty of yellow tinge, we actually love how much this color stands out. But for those that prefer something a bit smoother, the glow-stick brightness of Groovy Green will be too much to handle. It was only available on the Mustang Limited Edition 600, making this a rare shade.
Did Your Car Make Our List?
You shouldn’t feel bad if you own a Mustang in one of these oddball shades. In fact, we think it’s pretty cool! But if your eyes need a break, check out our list of the top Mustang colors of all time. You can also take a look at one of the color-specific guides below.
Other Top Mustang Colors
Image Credits: MustangAttitude.com | SVS.com | Corral.net
