First Generation Mustangs that land on our desks at Barn Finds often fall into two categories. Some need significant restoration work, while others have received that level of attention. This 1970 Mach 1 is an exception because it is a survivor wearing most of its original paint. It isn’t perfect, and it wouldn’t be a Mustang of this vintage without rust. However, its issues are minor, and the new owner could address them at their leisure. The car’s most pressing need is a new home, with the seller listing it here on eBay in College Park, Maryland. Bidding sits at $20,800, but I’m unsurprised that figure is below the reserve.
As a lad, I had a vast collection of toy cars. Most were made by Matchbox or Hot Wheels, and a couple stood out as my favorites. One was a Green AMX Javelin, while the other was Competition Yellow Boss Mustang. My collection of over two-hundred cars has since been distributed far and wide, but those two remain safely squirreled away in the back of my desk drawer. Therefore, you won’t be shocked to learn that I really like this Mach 1. Its condition is impressive for a car wearing most of its original paint, but I won’t let my admiration close my eyes to its faults or flaws. The paint has minor marks and imperfections, and it and the panels are acceptable for a driver-grade vehicle. The car is solid, but it has a few First Generation Mustang rust issues requiring eventual attention. The panels are clean, although spots are developing at the bottom of the passenger door. They haven’t deteriorated too far, so tackling them quickly would be wise. It has avoided the torque box and rail problems that plague these classics, but there is a soft spot in the driver’s side back floor. If an in-person inspection confirms that is the extent of the problems, this Mach 1 looks like a winner. The seller admits the bumpers are slightly pitted, but the remaining trim and glass look great for a vehicle of this vintage. The Mustang retains its correct spoilers, and the original owner ordered it with the desirable “Sport Slats” window louver.
My tastes in classic powerplants could be described as eclectic, and I often think there is no sound better than a small high-revving twin-cam four at full noise. However, I admire American V8s because they generally produce mountains of effortless power and torque. Such is the case with this Mach 1. Its original owner selected the H-Code 351ci V8, and although it was the least potent engine in the ’70 Mach 1 range, it still delivered 250hp and 355 ft/lbs of torque. The driver dictates the pace via a four-speed manual transmission, and power front disc brakes should bring proceedings to a safe and sure halt. The honest presentation of this Mustang continues under the hood, with the engine carrying a layer of dirt and grime. Nobody has doused it in gallons of detailing spray, and there are no signs of long-term fluid leaks or other problems. It doesn’t flatter to deceive. This Mach 1 runs and drives perfectly. The seller states the V8 purrs, and the transmission feels tight, which are both claims I find plausible.
I may be the “Lone Ranger” here, but I am disappointed that this Mustang’s original AM radio/8-track player has made way for a high-end modern stereo. However, it isn’t the end of the world. The seller doesn’t indicate whether they retained the factory unit, but with good secondhand ones regularly appearing on the usual online auction sites for under $500, reversing the change would not be difficult. Otherwise, this interior is unmolested and in good order. The Black vinyl upholstered surfaces look excellent, as do the dash and faux woodgrain. There are no signs of abuse, crumbling plastic, or other shortcomings. This interior appears to need nothing, although I’d qualify that statement by saying I would definitely replace the stereo!
If I built a shed large enough to house all the vehicles that would form part of my Dream Garage, it would be a small structure the approximate size of the average shopping mall carpark. It would contain a few Mustangs, including a ’66 GT Fastback, a Boss 302, and a Mach 1 survivor like our feature car. What I like about this car is its lack of perfection because it tells a story. It reveals that this classic has been treated respectfully during the past fifty-three years. If its minor rust issues are addressed, and it continues receiving the same treatment, there is no reason why it couldn’t still be prowling the streets when it clocks up a century. Look at some current models sitting in various showrooms and try to imagine any of them achieving the same feat. There won’t be many, and that’s why this classic deserves preservation. Will you be the passionate enthusiast who does it?
$25,300 now, reserve not met. Are those factory wheels?
They are not wheels, they are factory hubcaps.
Unicorn! Believe it or Not? Some of these cars were adult owned. Driven like normal cars also. Mild but comfy options and well equipped. I haven’t seen ‘70 factory hubcaps and original paint on a survivor in over 20 years!
I’ve owned 3 of these mach 1s and only I had original paint.
Screaming deal if it goes for under 30k. Just needs a cam, 4bbl intake, properly-sized carb, and a steeper set of gears and I’d drive it.
We’re sure the final price will far exceed this, it looks promising.
Too far away for us to inspect, and will ultimately be out of our league with our weak CDN dollar.
Congratulations to the new owner!
I thought Mach 1 would have red stripe on seat backs? And exhaust cutouts in valence panel?
2V cars didn’t have dual exhaust, tips and cutouts on rear exhaust.
The red stripe on the seats was only used for the 1969 Mach I.
Although I like Mach 1’s my favorite is a Boss 302. My four dream cars are a Boss 302 4sp. Z/28 LT-1 and a AAR Cuda. But I like small blocks.
Nice, but I could never get past that wood paneling on the dash.
There are two types of wood paneling on the dash and door panels.
I have no issues with the woodgrain here, but I could never get past the not so masculine optional swirl patterned woodgrain offered on ’69 firebirds.
My one dream classic Stang would be one that virtually does not exist since only 96 came out of KC after detailing: a 70 black on white Twister Special w/428 360hp. And since we’re talking classics here, Adam you have a dream job. As usual, well written knowledgeable description. Appreciate cha!
What I cant figure out is here we have another 70’s era Ford with a 351C but it is the 2V Motor. When new the far more potent 4V was only about $50 more and about 50 HP more. So if you bought a Mach One you wanted something cool and fast so why not spend the extra $50 for the better engine. The other odd thing is this is a 4spd car which I did not even think was available with the 2V Motor
I grew up in the car culture in Dallas in the late 60’s and early 70’s and Mustangs were a dime a dozen. I had a couple of friends with Mach 1’s but not all of them were hot rods. Ole Sam had a nice light metallic green Mach 1 with a white interior, and an automatic transmission. He didn’t get on it often, but when he did, it was pretty fast. Then Craig showed up with a yellow Boss 302 and I could get it sideways in second. Big difference. If I were in the market for a Mustang today, I’d want Sam’s. This car reminds me of Sam’s Mach 1.
My pastel blue ’70 Mach1 had same 351C, single exhaust and a Shaker hood.
I was told the 1970 351W Never had a 2V carburetor.
Did any of you have a Mustang 351W 2V?
Yes I did and the same blue it was mint I paid 900 for it in 1979. Funny thing my friend had a 69 mach ,351 Cleveland same 4speed factory and his could spank my mach.only diff was he had 4barrel..but much quicker
My buddy had a 70 and acquired it when it was quite … well … beat. The car was still a blast to drive and it still made a statement. I say, yes please to this Stang.
The early built 1970 Mustangs, Mach 1 and Cougars had 351 Windsor 2V engines the same as 1969 models had. The 351 Windsor was 4V only in 1969. I have owned plenty of both and non of my 1970 built after Dec. 1969 had the Windsor engine but it’s possible depending on the car production plant and shortages of Cleveland V-8s.
The early built 1970 Mustangs, Mach 1 and Cougars had 351 Windsor 2V engines the same as 1969 models had. The 351 Windsor was 4V only in 1969. I have owned plenty of both and none of my 1970 built after Dec. 1969 had the Windsor engine but it’s possible depending on the car production plant and shortages of Cleveland V-8s.
I don’t remember seeing any of these IMO better looking 1 piece wheel covers/trim rings on mach 1s.
I did see a lot of the sport wheels with the chrome hub cap. & cragers & of course magnum 500s.
Could you get a ’69-70 mach 1 with a flat hood with no scoop, like the std hood on the boss 302?
Went to $35,100, reserve not met 28 bids.