Hidden in this garage is an extremely promising project candidate. This 1969 Ford Mustang has hibernated for thirty-five years, and while it looks tired, time has treated it surprisingly well. It is a rock-solid project candidate featuring a V8 under the hood and only superficial rust. It also falls into the affordable category for those seeking a first restoration. The seller has listed the Mustang here on Craigslist in Mission Valley, San Diego, California. They have set their price at $7,500 and are not interested in trades.
The 1969 model year brought the second major restyle to the First Generation Mustang as Ford sought to refresh the appearance and give the car a greater sense of presence. Overall sales had continued to fall since the 1966 glory days, but the decline wasn’t as dramatic in 1969 as it had been in the previous two years. This ’69 Hardtop is a dry-climate classic finished in Candy Apple Red. The seller notes rust in the lower door corners, though the issues are minor and definitely patchable. The remaining lower extremities are clean, and the rest of the body is said to be rust-free. There are dings and dents requiring attention, and a couple of trim pieces are AWOL. However, the overall impression is that whipping the body into shape shouldn’t be too difficult.
Lifting the Mustang’s hood reveals the F-Code 302ci V8, teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission and power steering. This motor would have produced a factory-claimed 210hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque when the car was shiny and new. Still, with this one featuring an upgraded intake, carburetor, and headers, the figures may have been slightly higher before the Mustang was put into storage. Those preferring authenticity will welcome the news that the deal includes the original intake and exhaust manifolds, allowing the buyer to return the car to its factory form. It doesn’t run or drive, but the engine turns freely. There are no clear interior shots, but we know that it is trimmed in Black vinyl and features a console. The headliner looks tired and torn, but the seller includes new seat foam, seatcovers, and a carpet set. An in-person inspection may reveal other shortcomings, but these items represent an excellent starting point.
The biggest obstacle facing enthusiasts seeking a First Generation Mustang project is often finding an affordable candidate that isn’t suffering from major rust issues. This 1969 example seems to tick both of those boxes, while the included new interior trim components are a genuine bonus. What surprises me is that the car has been on the market for a week without finding a new home. Are you tempted to right that wrong by awaking this pony car from its three-decade slumber? I won’t be surprised if we have a Barn Finds reader who accepts that challenge.
A 302 automatic red/black interior coupe, it would have been a bread-and-butter Mustang in its day. Today, a blank slate for whatever the new owner wants. Looks fairly solid, as Adam says. I’d like to see the “counsel” between the front seats.
The price is somewhat high. It’s a non-running project that’s been parked for 35 years. Most likely in an environment with some humidity based on the rust in the engine compartment. It looks straight, but the rust bubbles in several pictures will need to be explored.
As always, if this is someone’s dream car, cost isn’t much of a factor, if someone main goal is to find a good deal on a vintage car to use as a driver, continuing the search is likely a better choice.
Steve R