The Grande was launched in 1969 as an upscale version of the popular Ford Mustang. It was a separate model as opposed to the “luxury” option of previous years. The Grande would continue through the end of the first generation in 1973. This ’73 Grande appears to be a non-running barn find, given it is photographed on a trailer. Needing a restoration, this fancy pony car is available in Billings, Montana, and here on craigslist for $4,000 OBO.
Unlike the standard Mustang, the Grande was only offered as a notchback coupe. A padded vinyl roof was part of the package, and the ride was quieter due to more padding in the passenger compartment. While you could order one with virtually any Ford engine, most came equipped with a 302 cubic inch V8, which we assume is what’s in the seller’s edition. Nearly one out of every five Mustangs assembled in 1973 came as a Grande (25,000 out of 135,000 units).
Details are sketchy about this ’73 Mustang. It looks to be original, but may have been sitting for years, especially if the 45,000 miles on the odometer is accurate. The machine may be finished in Medium Yellow Gold paint, which was a popular color on the Grande, with a top and interior that match. We’re told the car has the “normal rust” in the rear quarter panels, but the floors are solid (no soft spots). The fading is uneven, so could a fender or two have been replaced long ago?
Does the Ford run? We doubt it, or what it will take to get the 302 V8 (?) going again, along with its companion, an automatic transmission. The later, bigger Mustangs were produced in much smaller numbers than the 1965-66 versions, so they turn up less often today. But would you prefer fixing up a Mach 1 or a Grande like this? Our tip finder “Curvette” might prefer the Grande.
Looking closely at the engine photo it appears to have a “351-2V” decal.
Good pick up.
Surprised to read 1 in 5 was a Grande, I did not think they sold that well.
Too expensive for a parts car, not a great value as a project car. It’s in a relatively remote area so it’s buying pool is local, if there is a good supply of projects projects in the area it will be an especially tough sell.
The above comment is correct, it has a 351C based on the water inlet.
Steve R