We have become old hands at Barn Finds when the subject turns to First Generation Mustangs requiring plenty of work to recapture their iconic good looks. That’s why I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder numskal for spotting this 1969 Mach 1 that blows in like a breath of fresh air. It is a genuine survivor from a dry climate. That means that while it isn’t showroom fresh, it isn’t riddled with the type of rust that often plagues these pony cars. The M-Code V8 under the hood provides the sort of power it deserves to deliver respectable performance. The seller has listed the Mustang here on Craigslist in Reno, Nevada. You could fly in and drive it home after parting with $48,500.

The 1969 model year brought the second restyle for the Mustang as the car became bigger and heavier. It also heralded the introduction of the Mach 1 as one of the performance variants. Buyers handed over their cash for 72,458 of these classics in the first year, and with a meager tally of 5,396, it is easy to see why the Mach 1 spelled the end for the GT badge. The first owner ordered this ’69 Mach 1 in Lime Gold, with the seller claiming that the paint is original. It has the typical dry-climate baked areas, but there is still a pleasant shine that would allow the buyer to pursue the preservation path. The contrasting Black stripes have aged, but the best news is that life in Nevada and a garage-kept history has left this Mustang rust-free. Many will welcome the news, as it means they won’t face endless hours of cutting and welding to ensure the car is structurally sound. The trim and tinted glass are in good order, and this Ford rolls on a shiny set of Magnum 500 wheels.

The “tidy survivor” theme continues inside this Mustang. There are no gaping holes in the original Black vinyl, although it has stretched enough that many may consider replacement seatcovers. The pad has cracked, some woodgrain items show deterioration, and the piece that should grace the console is missing. I can’t see any problems requiring immediate attention, allowing the buyer to ponder the question of a retrim. I am unsure whether it features a factory radio, but the seller confirms that it does feature the desirable Sport Deck rear seat.

1969 Mach 1 buyers could choose between mild and wild when selecting the V8 to power their new purchase. This car’s first owner walked the middle ground by opting for the M-Code version of the 351ci V8. It produces 290hp and 385 ft/lbs of torque, and with the remaining drivetrain components including a three-speed automatic transmission and power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes, driving this baby should be an effortless pleasure. This car’s engine bay reflects why I like this Mach 1. The seller hasn’t gone ballistic with cleaners and detailing spray. The vehicle’s history is clear to see, proving that this Mustang has no long-term fluid leaks and has been enjoyed as its creators intended. Potential buyers who wish to catch the sights in Reno could fly in for a vacation and drive home in a mechanically healthy Mach 1 which is a turnkey proposition.

It will be fascinating to gauge your response to this 1969 Mustang Mach 1 and to see what percentage of you would opt for preservation over restoration. Either approach is valid, but it is a decision that you wouldn’t need to make the moment it landed in your garage. You could enjoy the Mach 1 in the short term, treating it to a refresh if your heart’s desire was to own a pristine vehicle. So, it’s over to you for feedback.