If you’ve always longed to tackle a project build but find the prospect of whipping a car’s panels and paint into shape, this 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 deserves a close look. The seller has recently completed the hard yards, leaving the new owner the joy of adding the finishing touches. It includes fitting the final engine bay components and refreshing the interior. They aren’t complicated tasks, and are generally the sort that a relatively competent person could tackle in a home workshop. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Mach 1 listed here on eBay in Trenton, Florida. The seller set their BIN at $35,000 with the option to make an offer.
There’s a lot to unpack with this Mach 1, and we should probably begin with the paint shade. It isn’t original, because the Data Plate indicates that the Mustang left the line finished in Wimbledon White. While I typically prefer originality, I will admit that the Metallic Blue gracing its panels is a striking color that improves the car’s visual impact. The seller completed the cosmetic restoration approximately a year ago, replacing rusty sections with fresh steel and massaging the panels into shape. They applied the Blue, added Black on the hood, and completed the process with Silver Mach 1 graphics. The results speak for themselves, because the car looks stunning. The paint shine is far better than Ford achieved on the line, and is guaranteed to receive favorable comments. The Mustang features its correct spoilers at both ends, spotless trim and glass, and a sparkling set of Magnum 500 wheels.
Matters take a strange turn when we lift this Mustang’s hood. The VIN indicates it started life with the M-Code 351ci V8, and the seller confirms that the first owner paired that motor with a three-speed automatic transmission. The M-Code was a pretty respectable performer, delivering a factory-quoted 290hp and 385 ft/lbs of torque. However, this Mach 1 now features a 302 and a four-speed T-10 manual transmission. The seller doesn’t explain the change, and it is definitely curious. The engine looks fairly fresh, making me wonder whether the seller rebuilt it and added upgrades like a better camshaft and other internal changes to squeeze more power and torque from the little V8. Obviously, it doesn’t currently run. However, the seller indicates that they have almost everything required to complete the build, and I assume that includes the missing engine peripheral components.
This Mustang serves up another mystery when we scrutinize the interior images. Once again, referring to the Data Plate confirms that it left the line trimmed in iconic Mach 1 Black knit vinyl. It appears to be virtually complete, although I can’t spot the driver’s seat in the listing images. The carpet is new, but the vinyl looks tired and the dashpad badly cracked. However, if a trim kit forms part of the included parts collection, it may take more time than money to complete this aspect of the project. All potential buyers can do is ask the question and hope for a favorable answer.
With the hard work seemingly complete, this 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 shows promise as a project build. I am probably not alone in wondering why the seller discarded the car’s original 351ci V8, substituting a 302 that would offer a potential drop in performance. Of course, they may have filled the motor with upgrades to improve its power and torque figures, but they don’t mention this. With that thought in mind, would you like to make your mark on this Mach 1?
Questionable bodywork on the driver’s door at least. Looks like a T-bird steering wheel? Really needs a Marti…
From the pics at least, doesn’t look like a standard Mach1 color. Closest would be Acapulco Blue, but this looks too bright. I own one with a white interior, 390 4 speed.
While I wouldn’t have put in a 302, built right they are fast. Think Boss 302. Price isn’t too crazy if all the work was done right. A BIG if.
With those photos we can all see now why it is $35k. GLWS.
Am I wrong that the type of hood scoop shown was only on the 428 Cobra Jet?
I dont think its a true Mach 1. I think its a sport roof ,wearing some Mach 1 parts. First,the back seat isnt the right pattern,it should be comfort weave. Second,if that 302 is the original engine,that would have came in a sport roof,never a Mach1. I want to say the front seats are from a Mach 1 but,not original to this car. I believe its an attempt to pass it off as a real Mach 1. Just saying.
Without its original 351, it’s not really in Mach 1 territory, IMO. And why isn’t it running again with this replacement 302? Has the timing even been sorted out yet? Too many questions. Almost like a Mach 1 Tribute. I do like the exterior paint and color, even though it was changed.
Man O man…I got exited, went straight to the E bay listing, realized the color doesn’t seem quite right, read the description and now disappointed.
As JCA stated needs a Marti. Why would you put a 302 in a 69 Mach 1? Smells a little fishy.
I tire of seeing incorrect spoilers and Magnum 500’s on these. Rear window louvers as well. These were Boss Mustang only options, in 1969.
The best quote I ever heard was “it’s easy to paint a car, but hard to finish it”
I’m definitely a fan, however it seems like it’s a puzzle of several 69 mustangs placed together.
Replacing the 351 for a 302 doesn’t make any sense. It brings the value down as most enthusiasts would want to say they have a 351 not a standard 302. While the car doesn’t even run, who knows what your getting for 35k.
It’s a pretty car, but definitely not worth the asking price
Has anyone noticed the shaker hood?
Obviously not an OG Mach1 – 351C did run in many models it’s 351HO in Mach1 or Boss 351C – most likely blown-soft Bronze valve guides after 30k mile the guides wear & allow valves to wander – not seating properly Valve Walk.
Valves burn & piston crowns get holes from Hot spots.
302 4spd w/HD clutch pack is ok – needs the Era vintage Paxton Supercharger good for 75 – 150 hp depending on Cam & Compression – That’d put it around 350-450 hp more than good enough for that Era leaf suspension.
More hp.you need a 4link irs w/bulletproof rear end.
Visually, this little darlin’ is a looker, and I’m sayin’ that as not much of a Ford man. Problem is that once you get past the pretty face, I’m afraid there are just too many questions to justify the price. Too bad, because as I said, it is pretty.
I have a 393 AFR head roller carburetor motor that would love this car!!!!!!
F5 block single plane intake TFS-51403003 cam 850 Holley carburetor
Lotsa questions here. Granted the paint looks great. There are some alignment issues (ie doors), but from a galloping horse (pun intended) a good looking car. Why do all that body and engine work then stop just short of good money? The stripes look like aftermarket. Best I recall they were wider down the door panel (not much, but enough to make a difference), and last of all what is up with the ride height? Sits up in the air like a Subaru. All moot points though. It’s no longer listed.
Lotsa questions here. Granted the paint looks great. There are some alignment issues (ie doors), but from a galloping horse (pun intended) a good looking car. Why do all that body and engine work then stop just short of good money? The stripes look like aftermarket. Best I recall they were wider down the door panel (not much, but enough to make a difference), and last of all what is up with the ride height? Sits up in the air like a Subaru. All moot points though. It’s no longer listed.
SOLD – Best Offer Accepted.
Not Sold, relisted at $29,500.