The next owner shouldn’t need to spend a dime on this 1973 Ford Mustang Mach 1’s drivetrain. The seller confirms that the engine and transmission are freshly rebuilt, and that they have installed a range of new parts to help the buyer along their path to its restoration. Unsurprisingly, the Mustang has generated considerable interest since the seller listed it here on eBay in Livermore, California. A solitary bid of $8,000 is below the reserve, though there is time remaining for those who view the Mach 1 as an automotive must-have.
The end was drawing near for the First Generation Mustang as 1973 dawned. The badge had served the company well, but with the Mustang II waiting in the wings, Ford performed only minor upgrades for the car’s swansong. The history of this Mach 1 is unclear, but there are a few clues in the supplied images. The paint shade it currently wears isn’t original, and a couple of spots suggest its first owner ordered it in Ivy Glow Metallic. The paint is peeling away in several areas, and I believe that the winning bidder may need to strip the panels to bare metal as part of a high-end restoration. However, with no significant dings or dents, that should be relatively straightforward. If this classic has spent its life in its current location, it may have avoided the typical Mustang rust issues. I see nothing concerning in the listing images, and the seller doesn’t mention problems in their description. The seller indicates that they recently fitted a new grille, new door seals, and a new gas cap.
Powering this Mustang is the H-Code 351ci V8, producing a Ford-quoted 177hp. The power feeds to a 4.11 limited-slip rear end via a three-speed automatic transmission, with this Mach 1 also featuring power assistance for the steering and the front disc brakes. The tidy engine bay presentation doesn’t flatter to deceive. The seller states that the V8 and transmission are freshly rebuilt, and that they recently installed new stainless trans lines, a new radiator, a Holley carburetor, and a billet MSD distributor. The carburetor upgrade alone should have unlocked additional power, a fact that most potential buyers will welcome. It appears that if this Mustang isn’t genuinely roadworthy, reaching that point shouldn’t cost much or require much effort.
This Mustang’s interior brings equal servings of good and bad news. Trimmed in Black, the seller indicates that the door trims, carpet set, and wheel are new. However, there is visible cosmetic deterioration across some plastic surfaces, and the faux woodgrain has failed on the door inserts. The radio is missing, and the headliner and driver’s seat are split and ripped. It probably doesn’t require a complete retrim, but the shopping list will include new seatcovers, a headliner, and a woodgrain kit, all of which are readily available, to present at a higher level.
It may not be the prettiest classic on the block, but that hasn’t prevented this 1973 Mustang Mach 1 from generating considerable interest since hitting the market. The Listing View and Watch List tallies of 205 and 27, respectively, are pretty healthy figures. That these have only translated into a single bid is surprising. However, it will only take two people who want to become its new owners, and the action could heat up. That begs the question of a potential sale price once the hammer falls. What would you consider paying for this Mach 1?
The last year for the large and relatively un-missed, Mustang. And the next year would be far worse, with the Mustang being basically a gussied-up Pinto.
For the record, 74 Stang was voted Motor Trend’s Car of the Year. Lmao. I had a 73 tho & loved it!
Are you suggesting that Terrry is wrrrong?
Most people would be surprised to know the “Big Mustang” is almost identical in length, width, and height as a 2025 Mustang.
Yep, the new ones have become quite porky… and ugly. Nothing newer than an S197 for me.
4 people will fit in the ’73, but not in the modern ones.
A bit rough around the edges, all 5 wheels must go.
Nice writeup AC. I am a fan of the 71-73 Mustangs although my favorites are 69-70, followed by the 67-68. Original drivetrain is a plus + plus, and I like the upgrades. With a little work this has driver written all over it. You could always restore it fully anytime.
BTW Merry Christmas all you BarnFinders. I really appreciate all your knowledge, experience, and stories that make this site special. I look forward to hitting it every day.
This “big” thing needs to die. The total difference in length between ’65 – ’66 and the ’71 – ’73 is under 8″. The myth is perpetuated by predominantly those who have never been in one or by repeating the same incorrect information by others. The sleekness of the design was intended to make it look long and low. Not saying you have to like them if you don’t…to each his own…but let’s get the facts right.
Correct Sir, and here’s another one for the “Big Mustang” crowd. A C8 Vette is slightly shorter than a 73 Stang but is wider and the same height. As I’ve said before, most people don’t realize how big cars are today.
Yes, and let’s not forget that Camaro and Firebird also grew in size and weight. Visually, the Mustang appears much larger.
For some reason i really like the look of those wheels,sure i’d rather have the classy looking Ford pie pans.But for a custom wheel these are pretty good looking.
If they were real Centerlines they’d be cool, unfortunately they aren’t.
This car was featured in this site a few weeks ago. So far, it’s been “sold” on eBay for approximately $12,000, both times the sale was cot completed. I think the seller would be better off putting a set price on it rather than an auction, the reserve is below $12,000, which seems reasonable. It should garner interest with an asking price in that neighborhood.
Steve R
These Mustangs are not big. I’ve restored 69s and also a 73 and the 73 is lower by an inch, wider because of the crash protection in the doors (2 inches) and longer because of the crash bumpers, another couple inches. Interior is the same size. Park it next to a new Mustang and you will be surprised, same size but about a1000 lbs lighter. The 71-73 done right is more muscular looking than all other Gen 1. The 73 Mach 1 that I restored appraised for $48k. I like them but prefer my 69s.
“What would you consider paying for this Mach 1?” Well I’m currently the high bidder at $10,300 and that’s the most I’d consider.
The only reason I’d bid is to flip the car, but at $10k there isn’t much room without putting at least $5k into it, problem is it needs paint and rust removal and new undercoating which isn’t cheap. If I didn’t have other cars and wanted to daily drive it I’d buy it and drive it and fix as I go. At $10k that would be a good deal. Or just a thorough clean and clear that patina maybe.
Went to $10,700 reserve not met, 12 bids.
1st time i seen rear bumper guards on a ’71-’73 fastback. Gotta be a rare option.