Ford was on a serious path to diversification with its First Generation Mustang by 1969, which is understandable, because sales had dropped by 50% since the glory days of 1966. Buyers were spoiled for choice, with those seeking a more luxurious motoring experience able to hand over their cash for a Grande version. It didn’t stem the flow, with sales continuing to drop before the Mustang’s replacement hit showroom floors in 1974. This 1969 Grande is a tidy one-owner classic, and although it features a few modifications, these are reversible if the buyer wishes to return it to its factory form. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting the Mustang listed here on Craigslist in Woodbridge, Virginia. The seller set their price at $13,500 for this turnkey Grande with 88,000 miles on the clock.

Although sales volumes were down in 1969, it proved to be a significant period in the First Generation Mustang’s life. New for this model year were the Mach 1 and Boss variants, designed to appeal to those with serious performance leanings. At the other end of the scale, the release of the Grande signalled that Ford was keen to capture buyers who may have gravitated towards the more luxurious Mercury Cougar. This package brought additional sound-deadening material and a fairly plush interior compared to the entry-level offerings. This ’69 Grande is a one-owner classic that left the line finished in Silver Jade Metallic with a Black vinyl top. The seller confirms that it underwent a repaint approximately twenty years ago, and the lack of deterioration suggests that the work was performed to a high standard. The Silver Jade shines beautifully, the panels are free from major imperfections, and the vinyl is in as-new condition. The seller describes the car as “90% rust-free,” which may indicate issues that aren’t visible in the supplied photos. They assure us that the floors are good and the trunk is perfect, raising the question of where the rust might be. There are no shortcomings with the trim and glass, and the Grande rolls on a set of wheels sourced from a Mach 1. However, the original wheels are included if the buyer wishes to reverse the change.

The Mustang’s exterior isn’t the only area to receive attention, with a decade having passed since it received an interior retrim. The results justified the effort, with the Black vinyl upholstered surfaces still presenting exceptionally well. The pad isn’t warped, and the woodgrain trim that adds to the luxury feel is free from deterioration. The aftermarket console is easily removed, and the seller includes the original wheel if buyers aren’t drawn to the hunky sports wheel that is currently fitted. One disappointing aspect is the rat’s nest of wires hanging from below the dash near the driver’s right leg. There is no explaination for these, and I always struggle to understand why a seller wouldn’t tie them back out of sight to make a better impression.

I was initially disappointed with this Mustang’s engine bay presentation, but I’ve decided to temper my feelings. It would be easy to be critical, but the fact that it looks the way it does confirms that nobody has gone berserk with rattle cans or detailing spray. The Grande could be ordered with a six under the hood, but this seller selected the F-Code 302ci V8 producing 220hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque. The car’s luxury leanings are emphasized by the three-speed automatic transmission and the power steering, with both features designed to lighten the driver’s workload. There is no mention of verifying evidence for the seller’s mileage claim, but there is still plenty of good news. They confirm that not only is the Mustang numbers-matching, but it is in extremely good mechanical health. It runs and drives perfectly, with no identified shortcomings or issues.

By 1969, the First Generation Mustang faced many obstacles that impacted its sales volume. Some people viewed it as an aging vehicle, with the company performing relatively limited significant upgrades. General Motors had hit its stride with the Camaro and Firebird cousins, pilfering sales from a car that had enjoyed virtual market segment exclusivity since its introduction. Ford sold 299,824 Mustangs in 1969, with 22,182 of those being the Grande variant. This one-owner example is a beauty, and the seller’s price appears to be realistic. It has only been on the market a short time, but are you tempted to give it a new home?