I am thinking of buying a 66 auto trans power steering car with a 289 standard interior and a bench seat in fair condition for 5,000-5,500. My concern is the front bench. Does this increase or decrease the value or no big deal.

 

It is more rare, but i don't think the desirability is there to increase the value that much. You should be able to find a rust-free example (much more important!!) for that kind of $$

 

I dont know why, but for some reason I think the bench is kind of cool. Your GF can sit closer to you.

 

Benches are definitely more rare. If you decide to switch to buckets, DO NOT SELL THE BENCH! I'm sure if you ever sell it that it will be much more valuable if you keep the bench on hand.

 

My '67 Mustang has a bench seat. At first I thought I would replace it with buckets. However, the seat grew on me rather quickly.

I do not think a bench seat increases value. However, those I've spoke to tend to like their bench seat. Although it does not increase the value it makes your car unique.

I always hear a bench seat is rare. I wonder howmany Mustangs were produced with them each year?

 

Yeah the bench seat was a rare option. My fathers 72 AMC Ambassador has a front bench seat and I have to admit I do like it. As moonweasel stated.. your partner can sit/slide/curl-up quite a bit closer to you. Its also nice as I like to drive with my left hand on the steering wheel and my right hand & arm up over the back of the bench. Its quite comfortable like this on either side really.

I've seen the bench seat sold on eBay a few times now and have thought it would be nice to have someday as an option to the buckets we're putting in.