1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1

Description

There's not much argument that the 1969 Mustang Mach 1 isn't one of the best-looking Mustangs of all time, perhaps even one of the best-looking muscle cars of all, too. So with this one, they took one real-deal Mach 1, stuffed it with a smooth-running 351, ordered lots of options then went out to have some fun. If you like your muscle fast AND nimble, this is an awesome choice.

A quick glance at the door tag will tell you all the important stuff about this sportsroof Mustang, including that it is indeed a real Mach 1 and that it was originally Wimbledon White with a blacked out hood. Not that there's anything wrong with white, but when given the chance, this one got a fresh coat of Bright Yellow, an equally attractive and period correct choice that was Boss 302-only, but we won't argue with how great it looks on this Mach 1. As a result, it's big and bold, with a hint of sophistication, which is how the Mach 1 was positioned when it was new. The bodywork is good and straight, and they were careful to include all the important details like the hood pins, hood scoop, and Mach 1 stripes on the flanks and surrounding the tail panel. Gaps are quite good and the paint is less than a year old, so it's fresh, fresh, fresh and we have to admit that the no-spoiler look on a fastback is extremely appealing. Even the chrome is nice and shiny.

The interior sticks to the original specifications, although the color was changed from red to black, and everything is new including the seat covers on the high-back buckets. The more luxurious woven seat inserts always identify the luxury Mach 1 package, and this one also has a center console and a thicker wood-rimmed wheel that feels right. The gauges are in good original condition and it includes somewhat rare factory A/C, which is fully functional thanks to an R134a refrigerant upgrade. The combination of luxury and performance offered in the Mach 1 means that an automatic transmission is a welcome addition, not a demerit, and the AM/FM/cassette stereo is a welcome upgrade over the original AM unit. The fold-down back seat makes the Mustang a surprisingly practical piece of muscle, and the trunk is neatly outfitted with new mats that fit well and a full-sized spare tire assembly.

A freshly-detailed 351 cubic inch V8 is based on a Windsor block, which was how this car originally left the factory. It's been upgraded with a 4-barrel carburetor and matching intake manifold, but even that was painted to help it blend in. In fact, the whole engine was bathed in Ford Blue, including the stamped steel valve covers and air cleaner assembly, so it looks very stock and very correct. The A/C system uses a modern Sanden compressor for reliability and easy service, but you'll also note that correct reproduction decals and OEM-style plug wires were used as well. A great-sounding dual exhaust system offers the proper Mustang soundtrack and while the undercarriage wasn't restored, it's in good condition overall. The FMX 3-speed automatic transmission feeds a 9-inch rear with 3.00 gears inside, so it remains a great highway car that doesn't get tiresome on long highway trips. Vintage Magnum 500 wheels with 235/60/15 BFGoodrich T/A radials finish the look.

Not designed to be a show car, but this Mustang delivers a lot more performance than you'd expect from a vintage pony, particularly a small block, and looks great doing it. Call today!