Hoping to reclaim some of the market share the Ford Mustang had lost since 1967, the company introduced a “luxury” model in 1969 called the Grande. The Grande had a higher level of trim than regular Mustangs and came with a vinyl roof. The model lasted through 1973 but didn’t return when the reinvented and smaller Mustang II arrived in 1974. The ’71 edition seen here belonged to the seller’s neighbor, and it was in hibernation for 37 years until he bought and cleaned it up. Needing a restoration and located in Vienna, Virginia, this Grande project is available here on eBay. The opening bid of $5,000 has yet to be cast. Thanks to T.J. for the tip!
The Mustang was restyled in 1971 (on the existing platform), but sales remained stagnant. The Grande saw assemblies total 17,400 units, with most coming with a V8 engine. The seller’s car has the “Cleveland” version of the 351 cubic inch V8 with a 2-barrel carburetor and an automatic transmission. During the early years of the Mustang, you could order one with the “luxury” or “pony” interior, perhaps the forerunner of what would become the Grande.
This Mustang was parked in 1989, and no attempts were made to start it for 37 years. While not necessarily stuck, the seller says some Mystery Oil and elbow grease will be needed to see if it will react. Also, the ignition switch was removed because of a stuck key, so it will have to be fixed to start the car. Including the seller, this is only a two-owner vehicle. The tires are 40+ years old, so only expect the car to roll for now.
The seller replaced the factory rims with aftermarket ones, though two remain along with the original wheel covers. The paint is faded, but the gold stripe is tape that should come off. The vinyl roof covering is cracked and peeling, so it will have to go. And the upholstery and dash pad need replacement inside the Ford, at a minimum. The car may have fewer than 20,000 miles, but 120,000 seems more logical. Will you be the savior to give this Mustang another chance?
Nope.
Needs everything, including rust repair. It’s hard to see someone paying the amount of the opening bid, $5,000, let alone the BIN, $10,000.
Steve R