Here on eBay is one of the most underloved – and possibly undervalued – Mustangs in existence. Even the Mustang II has found its fan base, rising from throwaway four-figure prices a few years ago to low five figures, while the Grande remains in No Man’s Land with zero significant price change since at least 2020. What gives? Is this a case of profound undesirability, or is the Grande a car we should reassess? Today’s example is listed at $24,999, with an option to make an offer. Curvette, we always appreciate your finds!
The hardtop Grande was Ford’s effort to expand Mustang ownership to those seeking a comfort boost. Constructed with 55 lbs of sound-deadening material, a softer ride, faux woodgrain trim, and other niceties – but without losing the engine options or sporty seats of its performance-oriented siblings – the Grande managed to sell more than 20,000 copies during its launch year of 1969. But by the early ’70s, the Mustang had gained weight throughout its lineup (the Grande was heavier than sportier models), and emissions standards were pushing compression ratios down; sales figures followed suit. This car came equipped with a 351 cu. in. Cleveland V8 and four-barrel Holley, good for about 285 hp. The gearbox is a C6 three-speed automatic. In the 1970s muscle car era, none of this was awful, but the Grande’s extra weight imposed a toll on performance.
The interior is in average condition, with minor paint loss on surfaces, torn stitching, tired seat foam, mold on the rear seat belts… I’m always suspicious when I see a steering wheel cover. But the carpets are quite nice, and overall, none of its flaws are terminal – provided the car can be purchased at the right price.
The Grande was offered in a hardtop only, with a padded vinyl top for that added touch of luxury. The sunroof is not attractive, in my book, and only offers an opportunity for water ingress. The seller is a dealer, and while the description is brief (for instance, the listing doesn’t even tell us if the car runs), the photos are fairly detailed. There’s no obvious rust here, and while others will choke, I like the brown paint. It’s so ’70s. The trim is in acceptable condition, too. But! The price is a problem. Has a Grande ever sold for $25k? Yes, a few years ago, this two-owner ’69 with a 302 sold for just over $25k. Otherwise, no – prices hover in the mid-teens. What do you think about the Grande – would you own one?
Nice informative writeup Michelle, I haven’t seen one of these roaming the roads in years! I like this, but not for more than around the $13 to 15K range at the highest. It needs to be set back towards the earth, riding too high. It already has dual exhaust which is a plus. The overly bland grandpa pizza pan hubcaps would have to go too. Replace with a set of Magnum 500 rims and a fresh set of BF’s and this would draw some looks around town and at cars n coffee.
Good analysis Michelle. These Grandes were nicely-trimmed models for their day. This is not a bad car overall, but does need attention to detail. One interesting item is how the aftermarket gauges were integrated into the instrument panel, instead of hanging them below. Period-correct brown. I’m with Cooter, some straightforward changes like Magnum 500’s would really wake up the look.
I agree with both comments above. If it were me, I’d also lose the vinyl top if the paint could be matched.
I’d be OK keeping the pizza pan hubcaps and adding period correct whitewalls.
I have to admit, I have more favorite generations of Mustangs, but I really like this one. This quite the typical commuter. Mustang that you’d see back in ’71 or ’72. I really like the brown paint, the vinyl top, white walls and wheel covers. Not every Mustang that left the factory was a Mach 1. I’d leave it as is if it were mine. Michelle, once again another terrific write up!! And heres to hoping this one stays original.
The wheels/hubcaps can be changed and the interior issues appear to be minor. Unfortunately the after-market sunroof will remain.
Even if it didn’t have the sunroof and lumpy roof under the vinyl top the asking price would be very aggressive. That combination with its other minor issues would make it nearly impossible to find a buyer, there are a lot of Mustang coupes from more sought after model years in better condition for less money.
Steve R