I’ll admit it, I’m generally not a fan of Ford’s BIG Mustang (’71-’73). There are a lot of reasons but most are probably immaterial to others. Standing out, first and foremost, is the comparison between these and the previous ’69-’70 iterations – designs where Ford just nailed it. Regardless, today’s Baltimore, Maryland domiciled 1972 Mustang SportsRoof is in fabulous condition and is well equipped. It’s also available here on eBay for a no-reserve bid of $18,201 with 41 bids tendered so far.
A word on the size differential between this Mustang and its 1970 SportsRoof predecessor. The size increase isn’t really that significant a difference – two inches in length (one via the wheelbase), about three inches in width, and an additional 100 lbs. of curb weight. So yes, it’s bigger but not substantially – it seems to be more a matter of visual perception. Anyway, deciphering the VIN tells us that this Mustang is a standard SportsRoof model though it has the more typically found Mach I side stripes and blacked-out hood, both options available on non-Mach I models. NASA NACA-type hood scoops adorn the hood but they don’t appear to be functional, as in connected to an under-hood air plenum. The seller states, “Solid body is nice but do expect some imperfections just from being driven over the years this is not by any means a perfect show car but a car you can drive and enjoy“. And that, in my mind, is perfect, this car shows beautifully but you don’t have to worry about what happens when you take it out for an enjoyable drive. The door jamb image leads me to believe that this Mustang has undergone a respray and that may be one of the reasons that it looks so sharp – that red finish has a lot of depth! As often found on cars of this era are Cragar S/S wheels, – they present well but I think I would have preferred to stay with the optional, and iconic, Magnum 500s.
A Q code designation means a 266 net HP, 351 CI V8 engine. While 266 net HP doesn’t sound like a lot, it was notable for the era and ’72 was the first year that domestic auto manufacturers employed “net” ratings as opposed to the former, and often trumped up “gross” ratings. The engine appears to be stock and the seller adds, “starts right up engine sounds awesome shifts through all the gears nice with a bunch of power“. One of the nicest features of this Mustang is its four-speed manual transmission, many of this generation of Ford’s pony that I encounter employ an automatic.
Oh for the days of red interiors! Or any color actually, other than black or gray. The interior of this Mustang is a nice contrast of both red and black. The seller mentions a rear seat interior panel that has started to deteriorate but it’s hard to find fault with the rest of the environment. It all appears to be original with the possibility of a replaced stereo system – the image is not revealing enough to know but the aftermarket blow-out-your-eardrums rear-mounted speakers tell you something’s up in the tunes department.
Final thought? Bid, buy, drive, and enjoy – this Mustang really doesn’t need a thing unless that interior panel becomes a must-replace item for the next owner. The underside images aren’t too revealing but this Ford shows as sound overall and a very nice example from the Big era. This generation of Mustang often gets lumped in with earlier iterations leading to a gen-1 designation spanning the ’65-’73 model years. Regardless of nomenclature, and considering those nine years, which is your favorite?
This one looks odd w/o the Mach 1 black trim on the fender/door bottoms and between the tail lights and the Mach 1 striping on the deck lid; otherwise a sharp looking car. I’m one of those who liked this model, BUT I also like the Mustang II as well. It has been stated amny times that it was size wise, more of what the original had been. GLWTA!! :-)
Man, that’s a “Red” interior!
No it isn’t!
Looking at this tan interior
https://mustangattitude.com/mustang/1972/1972_00017_05.jpg
i would assume the dash, floor mats,steering wheel & column, console & carpet should ALL be red TOO! – for a red interior.
They certainly are all red on the next gen II. Even the shifter boot! …
https://mustangattitude.com/mustang/1974/1974_00019_03.jpg
I think they went with black carpet on this car to not show the dirt & because you can’t get red aftmkt floor mats at auto parts stores these days. OEM red ones today would be VERY expensive, compared to the black aftmkt ones fitted here.
In 1978 I owned a 73 Mach1. The original owner I believe painted it a do-do brown. No Mach1 striping or black hood. I loved that car. The 10 foot long back window that, appeared 1 foot wide in the rear view mirror. It had its quirks but it was fun to drive.
Looks like a decent driver/cruiser condition Mustang. I’m like Moparman, I like this generation, but I too like the Mustang II. It looks kind of odd with some of the Mach 1 trim present, but not all of it. Perhaps, don’t get too hung up on details. Rather, as Jim says “bid, buy, drive, enjoy”— find a local Mustang club and join in.
My fave is the 67-68, but I’ve always liked the look of the 71-73 SportsRoofs. The 4 gear is a plus.
I hear ya Big C, plus No spoiler looks great. Love the powertrain, perfect amount of mustard to rip around in, and not get too wild.
It looks pretty honest at a glance, might be worth further inspection from a motivated buyer whose looking for one. Just check that underside and cowl area REAL good… these are potentially horrible rust buckets.
A nice ride for summer months. Hope i’m not alone thinking “Diamonds are forever”
Not the same yr it’s the same iconic look model as 1st yr Car featured in James Bond 007 film where he puts it up on 2 wheels to escape.
While not rare in U.S., its very rare here in Europe.
Be great to have this one, it’d need the euro spec side marker lights & that’s about it added.
What ever it sells for easily add 20-30k$ on top in German market.
This car has so many things right! Stance, wheel/tire size, color and shine. A couple inches here and there dramatically change the proportions and I never adjusted to the big look, now matter how well presented. The biggest drawback to these were that they were and continue to be slow. You just never see them modified and moving fast on any track, twisty or otherwise. They are very nice to drive though.
I like this car alot, love the Cragers, the RED and the current under 20K price, but can’t see past the “big” image.
Actually I think they made a “fast” version in 71,with a 429,4-speed,and 4.30 Detroit locker!, that would hold its own!
This is a nice driver. For under 20K it would be worth buying for a fun summer cruiser.
My fave is the 1970.
NACA ducts, not NASA. I’ve even seen Mustang reference books use the wrong name.
The ’72 Mustang sales brochure does, in fact, refer to them as NASA ducts. But you’re right, they’re NACA ducts.
Fixed.
JO
JAYE I like your comment my 69 fast back was awesome I bought it new with a 351 Cleveland gave it to my buddies shop along with $45k it came out 7 months later puttin 600 horse to the ground.
You never bought it new with a 351 Cleveland.That engine wasn’t available until 1970.
Your correct, the 69 was a Windsor engine, which was a good engine, and could be built to make serious power.
The 71 – 73 Mustangs are by far My favorites. Some “great” things about this one, and some “not so great” things for sure.
$20K is Max in current condition.
SOLD for $21,600.