It is a debate that will undoubtedly span the ages. Which is the better ownership prospect, an original survivor or a spotless driver-grade classic? That is the one posed by this 1969 Mustang Mach 1. There is no questioning its presentation, allowing it to draw crowds wherever it goes. However, a color change and other updates mean it could never be considered original without significant work. Placing that fact aside, its overall condition would suit someone seeking a classic ready to be enjoyed immediately. The Mach 1 is listed here on eBay in Van Nuys, California. Bidding has raced past the reserve, sitting at $32,300 at the time of writing.
This Mach 1 presents beautifully, with the seller confirming it underwent a repaint in the early-2000s. The deep shine and lack of apparent flaws suggest the work was completed to a high standard. After more than two decades, any shortcuts would be clearly visible, but there are none. However, that brings us to a point where we must confront the fact that the repaint was not part of a faithful refurbishment. This classic rolled off the line cloaked in stunning Winter Blue, although the existing Candy Apple Red is hardly a backward step. It is the first of several changes we find, but it is the most visible. The panels are straight, and the indications are this classic has never ventured outside California. Therefore, its rust-free status is no shock. The stripes look crisp, the trim sparkles nicely, and the wheels appear flawless.
The seller states this Mustang is numbers-matching, with the VIN confirming that its engine is an H-Code 351ci V8 that produced 250hp in its prime. The original owner equipped the car with a three-speed C6 automatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. This was the most conservative drivetrain combination Ford offered Mach 1 buyers in 1969, although it would have still allowed the car to cover the ¼-mile in 15.9 seconds. The water becomes muddy from here, with the engine wearing cosmetic enhancements. It is unclear whether there are also mechanical upgrades, although it retains its factory intake and exhaust manifolds. That makes me believe it might be untouched. The seller says it runs and drives perfectly, cruising effortlessly on the open road. If the successful bidder wanted to fly in for a Californian holiday and head home behind the wheel of their new toy, this Mach 1 makes that possible.
This Mustang’s interior presents as beautifully as its exterior, with no evidence of wear or mistreatment. It also poses another question, with the seller indicating the seats now sport Black leather upholstery. It is hard to confirm that detail from the supplied photos, but considering the other cosmetic changes, it is possible. The dash wears a cover, making it impossible to assess the state of the pad. Otherwise, the dash is excellent, the gauges are clear, and the faux woodgrain is free from fading and lifting. The car features a rim-blow wheel and factory air conditioning, with a retro-style stereo providing entertainment on the road.
I have discussed in previous articles the benefit of owning a driver-grade classic versus one that is meticulously restored. The “driver” allows a more relaxed ownership experience, with an unexpected chip or mark not causing the stress levels an owner might experience with a perfect car. This Mach 1 ticks the boxes for many enthusiasts, helping explain why it has attracted an impressive fifty-eight bids in under three days. Plenty of time remains on the listing for that figure to climb significantly higher, and I believe it will. If the final sale figure nudges $50,000, I will be unsurprised. Will you?
What a beauty, and great deal, yes should go a lot higher with time left.
I had a ‘69 sports roof that looked exactly like this with a 349 stroker crate engine. I consider this the best looking Mustang. Metal fatigue in the front end suspension was the reason I no longer own it. I installed a Mustang II front end in a 1970 Mustang I once had and that’s what this ‘69 needed, but I had spent too much on it to do the renovation. I sold it for $48,000 three years ago.
Nice car! Ford did not do “matching numbers” cars. When I see that in an ad, I know the seller is using buzz words to sell it.
The color change is not ideal, but people seem to really like it.
This color is similar in color shade to the Mecum sold ’69 Mustang Boss 429 but at
$295 K, the Boss 429 Mustang and hemi head engine designed for NASCAR is a very different Mustang.
Shock towers, inner fenders and front end had to be modified by the experimental facility Kar Kraft on what were originally 4 spd Cobra Jet 428 Mustangs.
H code Windsor 2 barrel – not far off the 4v 290 hp which I thought pulled strong at the time.
Really Nice Mustang with a history of care.
Probably does pull $50K to a good home …that AC will help pull in $$$.
Yes JudoJohn, Ford did do numbers matching cars. Starting during the 1968 model year the federal government mandated that auto manufacturers VIN stamp the engines and transmissions. And Ford followed this mandate. So all 1969 Ford cars would have left the factory with the VIN stamped on both the engine and transmission. Please stop spreading the misinformation that Ford did not VIN stamp engines and transmissions.
This will be interesting to see what it sells for.
The same car but in maroon & a 429 brought $275k at Mecum Auctions in Houston last w/e Adam. In fact, it brought the highest bid which is sayin’ sumpin’ when ya got all that competition.
If you are really an interested buyer go look at this car because you may be sorry to lose this kind of m9ney. Take my word pictures are very deceiving. Never buy a classic without seeing it in person..
Beautiful car.
I’ll take spotless driver
If you can’t drive it, forget it… in our books. Someone’s going to love this one.
Other than the color, this one has had many minor changes. Most could easily be rectified at some point. We just get tired of seeing spoilers and louvers on a ’69, or Magnum 500’s. According to our research (and memory) they were optional on the Boss models only that year. We’re sure some dealer-added options like these showed up later in ’69, but come on. The following year they became more widely available, and seen.
I’m with you… “If you can’t drive it, forget it” I’m not concerned when people add options that were available or upgraded the engine or brakes or ignition or anything to make it more user friendly. These cars are meant to be enjoyed, so enjoy. Just don’t do anything gaudy and spoil the appeal of the car.
Leather interior was not available on the Mustang, so if this has leather, the interior is not original.
Nice car! I also never saw any “Comfort Weave” interior in leather. Am I wrong but didn’t 351W only come with FMX or maybe a C-4. Thinking FMX as that’s what mine had. C-6 only available on FE or 351-C in 1970 model year. I would be proud to drive that around but a little too $$$ for my budget. Nice car though.
I have never seen any 351W that left the factory with a C4 transmission. There is a photo of the door data plate in this auction that shows the transmission code as X, which is an FMX transmission.
When I was in the market back in the early 90’s I looked at a Mustang exactly like this, the owner wanted $6000. I was looking for a 4-speed and that Mustang was an auto with 351 Windsor, I declined. Wish I’d had bought it, right after prices started to jump…..
I have seen a Mustang just like this many times on Facebook for a low price and it was a scam. Not saying this is a scam but it looks just like it. Good luck with the sale.
Pretty good guess on the hammer drop Adam. It sold for $45,200.00 with 80 ids. Pretty amazing price for a non-Boss.