The Ford Mustang is a generational classic which has gone through some dramatic changes over its nearly 60 years of history. The first generation ended in 1973 as the Mustang II became (arguably) the next best thing from Ford. The first Mustang we all know was a phenomenon. By 1973 it had grown bigger, heavier, and slower. But it remained a great vehicle for young professionals and families to show their sporty side. Here’s an example of a well-preserved drop-top that is perfect for someone looking to get into a classic with plenty of sports car feel and room for a small family to join in the excitement. Located in Austin, Minnesota, and offered here on craigslist this ’73 has a lot to offer. The asking price of $10,500 seems fair.
With only three owners over nearly 50 years, a quick look tells me this one was loved. The interior is free of major wear and it’s been protected from the summer sun. The seats are the optional “comfort weave” deluxe offering, and it’s all there including the convertible top boot and the original AM/FM radio. The ’70s brought us some great color schemes and this one reminds me of Jennifer Hart’s Mercedes from the “Hart to Hart” TV series.
On the outside, the bright yellow paint appears to be in great condition. The seller indicates there has been some work done but doesn’t elaborate. Perhaps it has had some paint repair as from a distance it shows nicely although could use a good detail. The black hood stripes add a sporty touch and match nicely with the black convertible top. All four original hubcaps are still present. The 73 marked the introduction of urethane front bumpers. Like the Corvette, this change brought a color-matched bumper to the front but left chrome on the rear. It looks great with this paint scheme!
Under the hood lies the optional 302 V8 with the 2-barrel carburetor. With 140 HP this is enough to get you down the quarter-mile in 16.2 seconds reaching 88 mph. Not the fastest pony but enough to chirp your tires in and get the kids excited. The engine compartment could use a good detail but it looks largely original and professionally maintained. I like what I see here. This little v8 has tons of potential for weekend upgrades. With only 63k miles showing on the odometer, I bet it has a lot of miles and smiles left in it. What do you think, Barn Finders? Are you ready to join the parade car scene?
Where can you purchase this much enjoyment for $10k?
A third gen Miata would fit that question.. Of course you can fit more in this, but really, what is going to be more fun? I can feel that slick five speed in my hand now.
Comparing this car to a Miata is a bit gratuitous. The technology predates the Mazda by 30 years, the intended use is completely different, and the Mustang wins the wow factor by several magnitudes.
I’ve heard Miatas are great little cars, but at 6’3″ there are those of us who fit much better in a vintage Mustang. Nice find
Bwanadana (interesting name) The man (?) BW asked where 10 grand could buy you more fun. I answered. That has nothing to do with 30 years newer tech and all that stuff. I do understand bigger guys don’t fit well in the Miata, but I am just thinking about me, selfish little me.
Where do you get these performance figures? There is no way a ’73 3,600-pound Mustang with the 302-2V (140 net hp) and automatic with the period’s very high axle ratios could do better than maybe 18 sec at 80 mph. These would have been slower than even the ’75 Mustang II with this engine, since they were so much heavier. The best a stock V8 Mustang II ever did was about 18 sec at 78-80 mph.
Looks like a great deal, and low miles too.
Nice car for the money. I’d recommend an in person inspection however as the roads around Austin MN are basically paved with salt so if it saw any winter use, lots of hidden problems might be found
allthogh im not big on this style.T least it not on ebay, craiglist you have a chance for a good buy-I,E, Bidding. It looks clean enough and good for a fun time and not get soaked
Deleted by seller.