1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1

Description

This is just a great-looking, great-driving 1970 Mach 1. That's it. Well, actually, that's quite a bit, because it's also one of the most popular pony cars of all time and this particular pony offers some well-chosen upgrades that don't dilute the original spirit yet enhance the driving experience in a big way.

The vivid electric blue paint wasn't on the color palette in 1970, but it probably could have been, and as a result, this Mach 1 looks pretty authentic. The more important issue is the sheetmetal underneath, which is in very good shape, accentuating Ford's best-looking fastback from any angle. The kick-up behind the doors, the pointed hood with a built-in scoop, and a deep chin spoiler all work together to make this car aggression on four wheels. The finish is excellent overall, with just a few blemishes that you really have to look hard to find, and with proper stripes running along the hood, there's no question what model this is. Out back, you get the honeycomb rear panel, classic three-element taillights, and a deck lid spoiler that looks better here than on just about anything else with a wing this side of an F-14. They kept the chrome bumpers, so there's a bit of sparkle at both ends, and there's correct Mach 1 trim along the rockers to make it long and low.

At first glance, the interior looks quite stock, complete with Comfort-Weave bucket seats (in black, of course) and a center console. However, once you slide behind the wheel, you'll discover a few pleasant surprises, starting with the fat, small-diameter steering wheel which still uses a wood rim for a period vibe. The stock instruments have been replaced by a set of Velocity gauges from Classic Instruments, and have you priced gauges lately, because these cost more than $2000 all by themselves! The 4-speed Hurst shifter (with cue ball) falls easily to hand and feels natural the first time you drive it, and the woodgrained accents on the console and door panels are part of the Mach 1's upscale sport theme. A modern Panasonic AM/FM/CD stereo has been stuffed in the original radio's location, and you'll be happy to note that this car came with factory A/C, which now uses all-new components to deliver ice cold air today. The trunk is nicely upholstered in black carpet and with the fold-down rear seat, there's always plenty of cargo space.

The engine is a built 351 cubic inch Cleveland V8. With a lopey cam inside, the apparently date-code-correct block is an outstanding runner, particularly with a Holley 4-barrel carb up top and torque-friendly long-tube headers. With the Motorsport valve covers and Edelbrock air cleaner, it has a '60s performance look and it really is a neat fit in the Mustang's engine bay. Backed by a 4-speed and a 9-inch rear, you don't need to worry about romping around with your foot on the loud pedal, especially since you've got power front disc brakes to help keep you out of trouble. Flowmasters give it that traditional Mustang sound and modern Bullitt wheels are a direct bolt-on. Thanks to those modern hoops, it also carries grippy 235/55/17 Pirelli radials that elevate the car's handling in a big way.

Nicely built and finished, this Mach 1 doesn't worry about pedigrees as much as having fun and looking great. This is an affordable way to enjoy Ford's most in-demand pony car. Call today!