Determining whether a classic car is genuinely desirable can be challenging. Most variants of the First Generation Mustang tick that box, but this 1970 Mustang Mach 1 removes all doubt. It is a rock-solid unfinished project build that has attracted forty-one bids since the seller listed it here on eBay in Mesquite, Texas. The intense action has pushed the price to $20,100, which is below the reserve. However, time remains for interested parties to throw their hats into the ring.

The seller believes this Mach 1 might be an unfinished project, with much of the exterior rubbed down and in Gray primer. There are still traces of the original Medium Lime Metallic paint, but that looks pretty tired. I would be tempted to strip the exterior to bare metal if this Mach 1 were in my workshop because that would reveal any developing problems that could be nipped in the bud. The panels are straight, and the underside shots seem to confirm this Mustang is rust-free and rock-solid. The trim condition ranges between reusable and restorable, and the wheels are a later addition. The tinted glass is spotless and was a wise investment on a car that has spent its life in a sunny location. Overall, this Mustang could be an excellent candidate for an enthusiast seeking a hands-on project.

When I examined the supplied images, I decided we could ignore the decal on this Mustang’s air cleaner. It suggests the 351ci V8 occupying the engine bay is the H-ode variant, producing 250hp and 355 ft/lbs of torque. However, the VIN indicates it should be the M-Code version that brings 300hp and 380 ft/lbs of torque to the table. That makes a significant difference to performance because, when backed by the four-speed manual in this car, the H-Code produces a ¼-mile ET of 15.6 seconds, while the M-Code slashes that figure to 14.4 seconds. This car also features power assistance for the steering and front disc brakes. The engine bay presentation isn’t spectacular, leaving the buyer with decisions to make. Pulling the engine to repaint and detail everything is possible. Still, it would be interesting to clean everything thoroughly to ascertain whether the appearance would be acceptable for a driver-grade classic. While it isn’t expressly stated, the suggestions are this is a mechanically healthy Mach 1 that can be driven and enjoyed as the new owner plans their project schedule.

The Mustang’s interior is complete and serviceable, although it has that tired look that will motivate some to consider a retrim. The front seats show visible upholstery deterioration. The same is true of the door trims, and the radio grille in the pad has collapsed. There are other minor faults, and by the time the new owner purchases the required parts to focus on specific issues, it would only take a few extra dollars to buy a trim kit. It should last for decades if installed correctly and provide a factory-fresh appearance that is hard to beat.

This 1970 Mustang Mach 1 isn’t perfect, but reaching that level is an achievable and realistic goal. It has no structural issues requiring cutting and welding, and it is a mechanically healthy classic with a desirable drivetrain combination. Regaining its former good looks should be straightforward, and a high-end result should yield a value beyond $50,000 any day of the week. The intense interest is understandable, and even if it is beyond your financial means, monitoring the auction to the bitter end could be entertaining. The only danger is that some may find themselves irresistibly drawn into the bidding war. Still, I can think of worse things to happen.