The power-dome hood in this sketch is very similar to the design on the 2010-2011 Mustang. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The power-dome hood on this sketch is similar to the design on the 2010-2011 Mustang. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

In this early design sketch, the front bodywork formed a single piece hinged at the front to expose the engine compartment. A 427-cubic inch V8 with four carburetors was meant to power the concept. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

In this early design sketch, the entrance bodywork shaped a single piece hinged on the entrance to reveal the engine compartment. A 427-cubic inch V8 with 4 carburetors was meant to energy the idea. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The two-position hatchback was intended to accommodate longer objects in a near horizontal position or open wider for cargo loading. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The two-position hatchback was meant to accommodate longer objects in a close to horizontal place or open wider for cargo loading. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

Sketch of 1966 Ford Mustang Mach 1

Sketch of 1966 Ford Mustang Mach 1

The Mustang Mach I concept as it was shown at auto shows in late 1966 and into 1967. The power-dome hood from the sketches never made it to the show car. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The Mustang Mach I idea because it was proven at auto exhibits in late 1966 and into 1967. The power-dome hood from the sketches by no means made it to the present automotive. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The rear of the 1966-1967 Mustang Mach I had a fastback that sloped down to the end of the decklid and a concave rear fascia similar to the 1967 to 1968 production models. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The rear of the 1966-1967 Mustang Mach I had a fastback that sloped right down to the tip of the decklid and a concave rear fascia much like the 1967 to 1968 manufacturing fashions. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

(*1*)

The Mach 1, because it was proven on the 1967 Detroit Auto Show with a face nearer to manufacturing Mustangs of the time. The low-cut roofline and racing-type gasoline cap by no means made it to manufacturing, however the hatchback did finally arrive on the 1974 Mustang II. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

(*3*)

For the 1968 auto present season, the designers crafted a brand new entrance finish that took inspiration from the 1963 Mustang II idea with its coated headlights and chrome rimmed protruding grille. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

Front view of the Mustang Mach I concept with oval headlights similar to those used on the first design model of what would become the 1965 Mustang. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

Front view of the Mustang Mach I idea with oval headlights much like these used on the primary design mannequin of what would develop into the 1965 Mustang. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The low roofline of the Mustang Mach I is clearly visible in this profile view. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The low roofline of the Mustang Mach I is clearly seen on this profile view. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The rear of the Mustang Mach I traded the twin 3-inch tail-pipes from the sketch for four smaller centrally mounted pipes. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

The rear of the Mustang Mach I traded the dual 3-inch tail-pipes from the sketch for 4 smaller centrally mounted pipes. (Courtesy of Ford Motor Company)

This article, written by David P. Castro, was initially revealed on ClassicCars.com, an editorial associate of Motor Authority.