1973 Ford Mustang Convertible Resto-Mod

Description

When was the last time you saw a '70s Mustang turned into a spectacular resto-mod that gets everything right? This 1973 Ford Mustang convertible might just be the best of its kind, with a stout 351/5-speed drivetrain, gorgeous paint and bodywork, and an upgraded suspension that makes it a blast to drive. It's time to look past the '60s for ultra-cool Mustangs.

We'll admit that the 1971-73 Mustangs have been largely overlooked by the hobby, and that's a shame. Fortunately, this '73 Mustang is looking to change all that, starting with the stunning maroon paint job that's only a few weeks old. Before this car, nobody invested in a show-quality paint job on these cars because the numbers just don't add up, but here it is nonetheless and it's gorgeous. Excellent gaps, super straight panels, and the blacked-out NACA hood make this Mustang stand out in a very big way. The '73s received a urethane front bumper that gives it a more uniform, finished look, and the long, low, sleek bodywork always looks best in darker colors. A chin spoiler borrowed from a Mach 1 looks great and with twin tailpipes peeking out from under the rear valence, you know this Mustang means business. The rear bumper is chrome and it, as well as the rest of the bright trim, remains in excellent condition, glittering against that maroon paint in a way that suggests this Mustang is more than your average pony car.

The lovely saddle tan interior is likewise all-new, including the door panels, seat covers, and carpets. It's far less 1970s than you'd expect and the high-back buckets are all day comfortable. The cockpit feel of the Mustang is undiminished even though the '73 is larger than its older siblings, and the deep-set gauges (including a factory tach) give it a very racy feel. Auxiliary gauges are set into the dash, just above the recent AM/FM/cassette stereo which feeds speakers stashed throughout the interior. The wood-rimmed steering wheel isn't stock but looks like it could be, and yes, that Hurst shifter now shows five forward gears on the cue ball knob, a step up from the usual four. There's also a brand new A/C system by Classic Auto Air that uses modern hardware and R134a refrigerant for reliability and effectiveness, making this a Mustang you can drive anywhere, anytime. Overhead there's a nice white convertible top and the trunk is correctly outfitted with a fresh mat, spare tire with cover, and jack bag.

The 351 cubic inch "Cleveland" V8 living under the hood was the top engine in 1973, but this one has been considerably upgraded from its smog-choked original self. Rebuilt by Faerman Racing in Houston, it's full of heavy-duty hardware, an upgraded cam, and is fed by a Barry Grant Demon carburetor on an Edelbrock intake manifold. The unique flat-topped Cleveland valve covers make it easy to spot, and the Ford Blue engine block and accessory drive is a nice detailing touch. A new radiator up front, complete with electric fan, ensures this hot pony always keeps its cool and long-tube headers feed a throaty 3-inch Flowmaster dual exhaust system. The Tremec TKO 5-speed manual transmission is a natural upgrade on any Mustang and feeds a 9-inch rear end and the suspension features new bushings and shocks. The lines are stainless, the brakes are 4-wheel discs, and the tub is reinforced with subframe connectors to really make this convertible feel stout. 16-inch Torque Thrust wheels look awesome and carry 235/55/16 Goodyear Eagle radials all around.

This is by far the nicest '73 Mustang we've ever seen. Compare the specs, the quality, and the look with any other car of the era (looking at you, Camaro) and you'll see that there's a lot to love here. Call today!