First-generation Ford Mustang late versions are a divisive breed. Despite the fact that their design is stunning and that some of their specifications can still catch people’s attention today, it’s reasonable to say that aging hasn’t been kind to them in some respects.
Ford granted the 1971MY Mustang the go-ahead in September 1970. It replaced Mustangs from the middle to end of the 1960s, which were quite unlike to the current model.
To start with, it was bigger, partly so Ford wouldn’t have to adapt the suspension to match the automaker’s huge block 429 cc V8. Second, despite having elements of the earlier design, the overall look developed into an excessively angular one for the 1970s.
Although the Mach 1 and Boss 351 specifications were still quite amazing, Ford had to discontinue the Boss 351 version and the optional 429 ci V8 engine due to emissions rules, so the pleasure was short-lived. This occurred immediately. It almost seems as though these vehicles were never given the chance to fly.
By 1972, the largest available engine was the 351 ci V8, with its 5.8-liter displacement, and by 1973, the most powerful Mustang you could purchase had just 266 horsepower, with most other V8 specs producing either 177 hp or 140 hp.
What we have here is a superb illustration of one such car, powered by the previously mentioned 351 ci Cleveland V8 (H-code version), that the legendary Mach 1 didn’t get off scot-free.
This car was reportedly purchased by the current owner in 1978, and since that time, it has never been left outside over night. Even though it was refinished in the late 1980s, the original Blue Glow factory finish is completely intact and still works. The vehicle’s other distinguishing features are the silver stripes, a pair of 14-inch five-hole alloy rims with Firestone Wide Oval tires, a rear spoiler, dual exhaust outlets, dual sport mirrors, and non-functioning hood vents.
The vehicle also includes new calipers, rear brake lines, power assisted front discs (rear drums), KYB shocks, and power steering.
Inside, you’ll find blue vinyl front bucket seats and a rear bench, but also faux woodgrain trim, an AM/FM cassette stereo, a center console, heater, auxiliary gauges for oil pressure, alternator status and coolant temperature, and finally, a Rim Blow steering wheel.
Recalling the H-code 351 ci V8 engine, it was factory rated at 177 horsepower, and a three-speed automatic transmission sent all of that power to the rear wheels. The advertisement claims that recent maintenance work has included an oil change, a new distributor, new spark plug wires, a rebuilt carburetor, and new gearbox and differential fluids.
Why bother at all?
That is a valid query. Don’t get me wrong, this is a nice car, but if you want a genuinely fantastic Mach 1 Mustang, you simply must choose a 1969MY vehicle.
You may have lately seen these Burgundy one (with 290 horsepower) and this really amazing Black one with a supercharged V8 producing 1,000 horsepower as two flawless examples on our website. However, there is nothing stopping you from sending this 1973 Mach 1 to restomod school if you wind up with the winning bid (better hurry).