By 1969, Ford Motor Company was pushing their FE-based 428 CI engine out of the way and making room for the 429 CI “385” series motor. The 428 still had some runway to go, however, and it remained a popular option in both the Mustang/Shelby and mid-sized Torino. While most Ford Ponies made do with more pedestrian powerplants, here is a genuine R-Code, 1969 Mustang for your review. It is located in Las Vegas, Nevada and is available, here on eBay for a current bid of $7,900, reserve not yet met. There is also a BIN option for $21,500.
In 1969, Ford offered two different 428 CI engines in the Mustang, a Q-code Cobra-Jet, rated at 335 gross HP, and an R-code Cobra-Jet “RA” also rated at 335 gross HP. Rare? Not really, 428 Cobrajet puts the total 1969 428 equipped Mustang production, including the Shelby version, at about 14,600 copies with a bit over 10K being designated as R-codes and the remainder rated as Q-code variants. Now, mustangattitude.com rates 428 R-Code engines at both 335 and 360 HP. My understanding is that the 360 HP version was the former Police Interceptor option so there’s a bit of confusion and anyone who would like to pitch some clarity is encouraged to do so. Regardless, all of the R-Code “RA” versions that I uncovered have a ram air (RA) “shaker” hood scoop protruding through the hood, something this example is lacking.
And that’s not the only thing it’s lacking, it has no engine, it’s a roller with an R-code VIN. And the VIN is as reported, there is no actual image of the data plate with the listing. Included, is a rebuilt Toploader four-speed manual transmission and the Cobra-Jet intake manifold and carburetor, and that’s about it. The seller claims that he has a Marti report but does not offer an image with the listing.
The seller states, “This car needs MAJOR rust repair! This means it needs pretty much EVERYTHING from front to rear! It needs all frame rails and floors, as well as all body panels, replaced“. And then he suggests, “This would be a great car for a new Dynacorn body since it’s an R code Super Cobra Jet Mach1 car“. So, what is a prospective buyer actually acquiring for a BIN price of $23,500? Sounds like just an R-Code VIN. The seller concludes with, ” There is no sense in asking for pictures of rust areas as I am stating all areas are RUSTED“! Well, I’m including one for your review and he’s not exaggerating.
There are two stilted images of the interior and what can be viewed doesn’t look bad but it makes one wonder about their intended positioning. While the dash and instrument panel looks OK; the fact that floors are falling out detracts from the entire package.
I should be objective but it’s tough with this example. So, knowing what we know, I’ll ask you all to talk among yourselves and respond, what do you think of this 1969 Ford Mustang Mach I R-Code?
It’s Junk.
I agree, but someone thinks it is worth $8,000 at least. There’s one born every minute.
What he said.
The VIN doesn’t really matter if you don’t have the matching drivetrain, and are going to re shell the car too. Under those circumstances, what not buy a solid fastback roller that came with a base drivetrain and build it as you wish?
“Stupid is as stupid does”
Rust Belt Car!
Run away! Don’t walk!
If someone were to attempt restoring this, it would be the vehicular equivalent of George Washington’s axe: is it really a R-Code Mach 1 if nothing from the original car remains?
Nobody is likely to restore it, it “value” is as a VIN donor.
Steve R
True. I should have used quote marks around “restoring” to show the sarcasm I felt when writing it!
I hope this owner likes his driveway art… at that BIN price, that’s what this vehicle will always be…
I wouldn’t give 2 cents for this POS!
Loch Ness monster for sure. Would not risk Tree-fiddy on this one.
I like the use of the word “rare” in the title for the ebay listing. According to Kevin Marti’s book, there were just over 15,000 428 Cobrajets produced in 1969. This car is in Nevada now, but spent most of its life somewhere in the rust belt. The bidding is up near 10K now with the reserve still unmet. The seller should be thrilled that someone somewhere feels its worth that figure.
What a peach!
Well, this old warhorse has seen the last of its glory days, that’s for sure. Fords best street machine for ’69, the Cobra Jet Mustangs were nothing to take lightly. As far as 335 or 360 horsepower goes it’s all BS anyways. The Cobra Jet and Super Cobra Jet were both rated the same at 335 which has been debated for years and years. I believe the NHRA refactored the horsepower rating for class purposes at or around 360 maybe higher. The police interceptor was rated at 360 and the early GT 500’s used the police rig but with dual 4’s. There’s no believing any of these old horsepower ratings as far as I’m concerned… remember the ’66 high performance 390 was also rated at 335. Paper figures are what they are,,, one hard run with the 428 CJ and it’s all shots and giggles.
Where is the Ram air at ? Didn’t see it there!!
Debate all you want about the available HP of the 428CJ. This car’s available HP? Zero. Point. Zero…
Bid to almost 12k now . Frankly speaking thats insane . I just don’t see any value beyond scrap metal
Some people have more money than brains.
Fiberglass the outside, plop some frame covers on, new floor tacked in
Fake engine. Use as trailer queen or garage art. Fiberglass $200
Floor $200. Rails $200
Wheels/tires $1600.
460 motor $500
Paint $2500
Exhaust radiator.$500
Ouch.even then too much
Well, Ladies & Gentlemen, if someone wants to put this back together, so be it. I would rather see it being restored at a loss than it rusting away in someone’s backyard. It is an awesome car and will be someday for someone to enjoy. Also: today’s society has a lot of cash to toss around so I would love to go at it with my 68 XR7 GT390 4-Speed Cougar down the track or side road.
I owned an original “R” Code Mach 1 Mustang Cobra Jet, Shaker Hood Scoop, It came factory 360 HP Ford FMX transmission. all vin matched. Sold it in 1993 with 43xxx miles. I wish I had never sold it. I would not give $60.00 for this one
Is this a joke.
It brought tears to MY eyes. I laughed so hard I cried.
It is about saving these cars: Here is the rub:
Early Oct, ‘68 SCJ car with 3:91 drag pack before it was officially called Drag Pack.
Factory tilt away steering wheel
Fold down rear seat
Factory tach
Rare jade silver original color
Probably close to a six figure car restored!
I’ve had 3 including a ‘69 SCJ with most factory options, but no tilt away steering wheel. They are rare cars in ‘69.
Six figures? Hmmm. And what would be the cost of restoration?
I just checked the ebay listing again and saw that the seller believes he can get more than 15K if he parts out the car. This car has no driveline in it. That is where the big money lies, not in a rusty body. He should be happy with the 15K bid and drop the reserve so he can dump it.
He’s hoping the old saying “A fool and his money are soon parted” applies here.
The seller does what so many others do which is when selling a POS they just have to picture their “other” nice similar vehicle in at least one frame. At that point I’m looking to see if the other car is for sale.
Supposedly sold for over $17k. I think you can find a complete example for $55-75k without going to a national auction house.