Some classics leave buyers with choices to make. This 1969 Ford Mustang Convertible perfectly demonstrates this. It presents nicely and, with a healthy V8 under the hood, it will provide someone with immediate motoring pleasure. However, its straight panels and lack of significant rust could make it a candidate for some fresh paint that would make it really “pop.” I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Mustang listed here on Craigslist in Granite Falls, Washington. The seller set their price at $27,950 for this turnkey classic.
Ford performed its second update to the First Generation Mustang for the 1969 model year, increasing the length and width to give the car a greater sense of presence. This came at a cost, with weights climbing across the board. This car is a perfect example of that philosophy, because Ford’s Dealer Specifications Sheets confirm that this Convertible tips the scales almost 50 lbs heavier than the same car produced in 1968. The first owner ordered this Convertible in Gulfstream Aqua, with the seller recently adding a White Robbins power top. They describe the paint as a “good 10-footer,” which confirms that a close inspection will reveal imperfections. However, with the panels straight, the car is definitely presentable. The underside shot is encouraging, with no rust or other nasty surprises. In fact, the only rust of any description is confined to the quarter panel drop-offs, although the listing suggests that these areas are patchable.
Ford introduced the 302ci V8 to the Mustang range for the 1968 model year, and this 1969 Convertible’s first owner teamed that motor with a three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. The F-Code 302 generates 210hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque, making it marginally more potent than the previous year’s C-Code 289 at 195hp and 288 ft/lbs. This engine breathes better, courtesy of the addition of an Edelbrock Performer intake, a four-barrel carburetor, and a new dual exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers. Throw in a Petronix ignition for a fatter spark, and this Mustang should perform better than it did when it left the showroom floor. The seller states that the engine springs into life at a twist of the key, the car runs and drives well, and the transmission shifts smoothly.
Dropping the power top reveals an interior that won’t cause the buyer shame when they hit the street. It was ordered in White Deluxe trim with Comfort Weave seat inserts. The first owner added a rimblow wheel, a console, and what appears to be an AM radio/8-track player. Once again, the condition is tidy and is free from signs of abuse or neglect. The seats look nice, and the seller recently added new carpet, door trims, a dashpad, and a gauge cluster. They also rebuilt the wheel, leaving nothing for the buyer to do.
Okay, it’s decision time. This 1969 Mustang Convertible presents quite nicely for a driver-grade classic. With no pressing needs, the buyer can enjoy it immediately. However, there is no doubt that a fresh coat of paint would lift its appearance considerably. Perhaps a compromise is required. The new owner could slip behind the wheel during the remaining sunny days, spending the cold winter months productively treating the vehicle to a cosmetic refresh. Is that a path that you would take?
Looks like a nice Mustang. 1969, a favorite Mustang model year for me. Gulfstream Aqua with white is a very attractive combination. Has had some upgrades. Seller calls it a ten-footer, but from the pics it is hard to find much to fault. Perhaps— it is the opposite of what we often see, where a rust bucket is termed “good condition”; in this case, maybe the seller is being too critical? A Marti Report is referenced in the good ad, would be worthwhile to see it. Not cheap.
I’m with Bob. It doesn’t look like a 10 footer at all. I know if I were selling anything, I typically sell it short, and am more critical than need be. But I’d rather under sell something, have someone look at it, be pleasantly surprised, and probably haggle less over the price. I like this Mustang, its a more typical every day one, I’d keep it exactly as is. Whitewalls and wheel covers included. Gulfstream aqua is one of my favorite colors from Ford.
I like all mustangs up thru 73 but 69 is my favorite. This one has great colors and is nicely equipped. The seller of this car is a classic car dealer in Granite Falls WA and their descriptions seem very honest about the condition of their cars but like anywhere else a buyer needs to verify any claims. I’d love to make this a summer driver.
It says factory power top?? I know someplace made conversion kits for your manual top.
The Marti Report should verify the claim.
I had a ’69 mustang convertible, nice driving/riding car. Preserve and drive/enjoy.
nice but those tailpipes need to be changed
Nice looking car. The wheel covers are from a 70 model. These were not available on a 69. They are a fairly rare item.
Other than brakes belts and hoses I would just keep it as is and enjoy it for a few years before moving it on to someone else who can restore it.
Rust is like cancer. Catch it early and it can be fixed easily and relatively inexpensively, but let it spread, and the costs and effort required to fix it goes up exponentially. I’d fix the quarters quickly and paint it before the rust gets into the wheel wells and trunk floors, where the cost goes way up to repair, as the fuel tank forms part of the trunk floor! Limit any modifications to bolt-ons, and keep the original parts for a future sale. Maybe add an upgraded intake and a better breathing exhaust, as the two-barrel intake is a bit on the mild side, but don’t go crazy. GLWTS!
From the above write up:
“This engine breathes better, courtesy of the addition of an Edelbrock Performer intake, a four-barrel carburetor, and a new dual exhaust with Magnaflow mufflers. Throw in a Petronix ignition for a fatter spark”
From the Craigslist listing.
“Under the hood the 302 has been upgraded with an Edelbrock Performer intake manifold, 4 barrel carburetor, Pertronix electronic ignition and dual exhaust. It fires up nicely, runs smoothly and performs well”
Open mouth, insert both feet. Masticate thoroughly! Mea Culpa, Mea Culpa, Mea Maxima Culpa!