“Subtle” is not a word that could be used to describe this 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1. Its exterior paint shade is guaranteed to catch the eye, an impression that is heightened by its interior. However, it is about far more than good looks, with its mechanical specifications ensuring that it is no wallflower. It appears to need nothing, and I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Mach 1 listed here on Craigslist in Granite Falls, Washington. You could drive it home after handing the seller $47,950.
Ford introduced the Mach 1 to its Mustang model range for the 1969 model year. Doing so was a calculated risk, but it proved to be one that paid off handsomely. The Mach 1 quickly usurped the GT as the Mustang’s performance variant, with 72,458 buyers selecting a Mach 1 in 1969, and only 5,396 ticking the box for a GT. Therefore, it was unsurprising that Ford quietly retired the GT badge at the end of 1969. Our feature Mach 1 rolled off the line in 1970, hitting the showroom floor before the 1971 facelift that would see the First Generation Mustang through to the end of production. Its Calypso Coral paint looks stunning, reflecting its surroundings like a mirror. It cloaks laser-straight panels, and there is no evidence of the type of rust that often plagues these classics. The Black highlights look crisp and clean, and the car retains the correct spoilers at either end. The Magnum 500 wheels and Cooper tires are recent additions that perfectly suit the Mustang’s character.
This Mach 1 is about far more than looks, with the 351ci V8 churning out 300hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque. The power from the numbers-matching engine feeds to the road via the original four-speed manual transmission, with this classic featuring power assistance for the steering and the front disc brakes. The Mach 1 in this form was a genuinely fast car, demanding respect on the street from those in the know. This car’s engine bay is as spotless as the rest of the vehicle, and it is pleasing to see that the seller hasn’t drowned everything in detailing spray. The information provided surrounding the car’s mechanical health is nonexistent, but I can’t spot anything suggesting that the news would be anything but positive.
If this Mustang’s exterior is eye-catching, the original owner’s decision to order the car with the interior trimmed in Vermillion vinyl guarantees that it will turn heads. The initial impressions are positive, with no evidence of wear or abuse, and the plastic is free from the types of scratches and marks that often accumulate with age. The dash and pad are excellent, with the same true of the faux woodgrain. However, there is one small shortcoming that I am surprised has slipped through the seller’s net. The clutch pedal is missing its rubber pad, and while that isn’t a major or expensive problem, it is typically the small details that separate a good classic from a great one. The interior isn’t highly optioned, and the rear box-mounted speakers suggest that this Mach 1 features an aftermarket stereo.
The 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1 has ridden a rollercoaster in the classic market during the past year. Values have dropped by around 9% across the board, and it is unclear when (or if) they will rebound. History suggests that they will, although by how far is pure speculation. If they return to their previous levels, buying now could be a great strategic move. Of course, there is always a risk involved in any classic purchase, but would you roll the dice when the vehicle in question is this stunning?
Aw, values dropped 9%, poor babies,,,sorry, the car, the car,,,now this was a guys car, 4 speed, rear louvers, spoilers, Magnums, engine gee-gaws but, personally, I didn’t care for that front end, and apparently, others as well. I read, 1970 Ford sold almost half as many Mach 1s( 40,970) as 1969s. Not to take anything away from this cool car, but I think it was a limited market to begin with, and folks that bought a ’69 were very happy. This car looks cool sitting still. It bums me some to see a 4 speed and a knee-knocker tach, clear indication it will be, um, well, let’s just say, I’d be happy going slow. To drive this car by tachometer, will take its toll, and like some old aging super model, doesn’t have to try and impress anyone. A Mach 1 is universally known as the best, or should be. Although just in case your passenger doesn’t know what 1970 0-60 in 6.3 sec. and the 1/4 mile in 14.8 at just under 100 was like, best catch their reaction on camera. :)
Were those rear louvers factory equipment ?
Yes these came as a factory option and were originally called “sports slats.” Many were also added by dealers. The vehicle’s Marti report will confirm if it came from the factory with them. This is a very nice Mach 1. My wife’s uncle, who is 82, still has the 70 Boss 302 4 speed in Grabber Blue that he bought new. Those came with standard louvres along with blacked out taillight section. His family price is $80K and we are seriously considering selling a couple of vehicles and moving on it. Not a big ford guy, but it’s a family heirloom. Still waiting to see how this volatile classic market is gonna settle in!
Correction on the rear louvres on a Boss, those were also optional in 70.
Rear louvers were a factory option but since there’s no Marti report shown we don’t know if this car originally came with them, or the spoilers. It seems most owners nowadays like to add them. I think they look better without them. Nice car but seems pricey.
Gorgeous combination, love the Calypso Orange. This is definitely a dream car. I have a ’69 Mach 1, but have had several 70’s and love the styling. It does look like there was a repair to the torque box and/or floor pan but I could be wrong.
Adding to what @Curvette pointed out, when selling a Ford or Mercury from this era, especially a Mach 1, the seller would be wise to spend a few bucks and get the Marti report. Looks like a pretty clean car but the Marti will show what is what and eliminate some questions (and concerns) from prospective buyers.
Hmmm, unless my eyes are deceiving me this looks like a windsor engine. Unusual to see a 351W with a 4 speed, especially since the “grocery getter” 351W in 1970 only came with the 2 barrel carb, and only on early production units at that. Other than that, this is a beautiful car, not too many nits to pick. I can count on one hand how many of these I’ve seen with red interiors.
Yes, 351 Windsor.
There’s some chatter, not fully verified by myself, about a 4V 351W being supplied in a limited portion of the 70′ model year.
Among other displacements. Ford sure was busy with the variable configurations between 351C, W, and M, 4V & 2V, developed during this period.
Personally, I could get comfortable in this red interior.
Agree, to make this car perfect in my minds eye would be a Cleveland with a shaker hood scoop.
OK, great. It has flashy paint, no doubt. I don’t care for the vermillion interior with orange paint…
I see no picture showing the underside, so what about the torque boxes? Is there a link to more pictures I missed?
Anyway, the seller would do well to provide the Marti report proving the originality of this vehicle, and a potential buyer should verify everything before forking over any money.
The underside of the torque box is shown in the Craigslist ad.
There is no picture that shows a torque box, there is a picture of the trunk with the carpet reflected. In any case, I would want to see the entire underside, not just one part of it, unless I am only paying for one part. ;-)
Everything looks so nice. I love the way the Mach 1’s look.