Convertible Mustangs from the early 1970s have always carried a certain appeal, especially when they’re still wearing their original drivetrain. This 1970 Ford Mustang convertible, currently listed on craigslist out of Belfair, Washington, is one of those cars that sits squarely in project territory but checks several important boxes that enthusiasts look for when considering a long-term build. Thanks for the tip, Curvette!
According to the seller, this Mustang is finished in red and retains its original 302 V8 paired with an automatic transmission, both of which are described as numbers-matching. That alone gives the car a strong foundation, particularly for buyers who value originality over engine swaps or heavy modification. The odometer shows 150,000 miles, with the seller noting that it has rolled over, and the car currently does not run.
Even so, there has been recent mechanical attention aimed at moving the car in the right direction. The fuel system has been addressed with a replacement fuel tank and new fuel lines, and the engine has received a new water pump along with a timing chain upgrade using a double chain setup. While the car still needs further work before it can be driven, these updates suggest the seller had plans beyond simply letting it sit.
The Mustang is equipped with power steering, power brakes, and a power-operated convertible top, all desirable options for a driver-focused build. The top itself will need a rebuild, including attention to the hydraulics and related components. The seller notes that everything appears to be present, just aged and in need of restoration. That’s often preferable to hunting down missing convertible-specific parts later.
Visually, the seller describes the body as straight and still wearing its original paint, which is becoming harder to find on cars from this era. The car rides on American Racing wheels, though the tires are noted as old and likely due for replacement. The title is listed as clean, and the car is being sold as a project, priced at $10,000.
One last thing to note is the “Boss 302” that appears in pictures, but isn’t addressed in the ad; without further information from the seller, or a VIN to cross referenced, it’s a mysterious piece of vinyl lettering. For the right buyer, this Mustang represents an opportunity to bring back a classic convertible without starting from scratch. It isn’t a turnkey cruiser, but it offers originality, factory options, and a solid starting point that could go in several directions—from a faithful restoration to a lightly updated weekend car.
Early ’70s Mustang convertibles continue to attract attention as prices climb on earlier models. The real question is whether you’d keep this one close to stock or take advantage of its project status to build it your way—what would you do with it?
Nice find Curvette and writeup Elizabeth. A pretty solid stang with seemingly good bones. Needs a thorough frame, floors and trunk checkup. If frame and all are good, it will be a tall order to get it back to pristine condition, to the tune of $25K and above just to address bodywork, paint, trim, top and interior. And with 150,000 on the clock probably needs to be mechanically refurbished. This will place the new owner at $30K plus for a 302 automatic Mustang. Hagerty has these listed in good shape going from $25 to $50K and excellent 75 to $100K. If the numbers do match this will be worth restoring. I hope it finds a good owner willing to take it there!
Has A/C also.
You could probably just get it mechanically sorted, reupholster the seats and drive it, but the top hydraulics sound scary. Patina. Also, there’s a hole where the radio used to be but some big honking speakers in the doors and back seat area.
No need to look at the VIN, the seller says it has the original engine, the BOSS 302 wasn’t available in convertibles or with an automatic.
I’m not sure why the seller would waste a picture on the BOSS 302 stripes, show more of the car, including the wheels, which were mentioned as a selling point in the ad.
Steve R