Gauging whether a classic is desirable or ticks the boxes for those seeking a project candidate is sometimes challenging. However, the listing statistics for this 1970 Ford Mustang Fastback leave no such doubts. It is a two-owner project candidate that hasn’t seen active service for twelve years. However, it is essentially sound, has a V8 under the hood, and would be ideal for a faithful restoration or as the base for a Mach 1 tribute. The seller has listed the Mustang here on eBay in Fayetteville, Arkansas. They set their BIN at $25,000, so let’s take a close look to determine whether that figure is justified.

Ford performed its second upgrade to the First Generation Mustang for the 1969 model year. It would continue in largely unchanged form until the final refresh hit the market in 1971. The first owner ordered this Fastback in 1970, choosing dazzling Calypso Coral to grace its panels. The seller is the car’s second owner, indicating that it received a repaint in the original shade in the 1990s before they became its custodian. The vehicle is generally presentable but is far from being perfect. The paint is beginning to peel on the roof, and the panels have accumulated a few minor dings and dents. However, these aren’t bad enough to justify steel replacement, although the same isn’t true when we delve below the surface. This project candidate has typical Mustang rust in the floors, although it seems confined to the front pans. With replacement steel readily available and surprisingly cheap, eliminating that problem shouldn’t break the bank. The rest of the underside is covered in dry scale that could be addressed with media blasting to prevent further deterioration. The trim and glass look acceptable if the buyer is planning a driver-grade restoration, although they may choose to replace some items if they are striving for perfection.

If buyers sought to power their 1970 Mustang with a V8, this car’s specifications could be considered “entry-level.” That is in no way a criticism, with this pony featuring a 302ci V8, teamed with a three-speed manual transmission. The first owner didn’t select power-assisted steering or brakes, but the engine bay features a compressor for the aftermarket air conditioning. The Dealer Specification Book quotes a power figure of 220hp for this motor, proving performance that was very respectable by the standards of the day. The seller states that this Fastback hasn’t seen action for twelve years, and they haven’t attempted to coax it back to life. This is probably good news because it will allow the new owner to follow their preferred process to minimize the risk of causing mechanical damage. It is encouraging to discover that the oil is clean, although this isn’t an iron-clad guarantee that the 302 is healthy. If it proves beyond salvation, some readers may have visions of something more potent occupying the engine bay.

The first owner teamed this Mustang’s Calypso Coral exterior with an interior trimmed in Code BE Vermillion vinyl. It is a mixed bag because while items like the back seat and most of the plastic looks good, the front seatcovers, door trims, carpet, and dashpad all exhibit deterioration that would warrant replacement. This will leave the buyer with research to perform to determine whether it will be more cost-effective to replace individual items, or if a trim kit is more appropriate. The seller has retained the factory AM radio if the buyer wishes to ditch the aftermarket stereo, and it appears that the air conditioning system is complete.

Scrutinizing the listing statistics tells us much about this Mustang, and how it has garnered plenty of attention. The auction has received an impressive 744 views in the past day, and fifty-five people have added it to their Watch List. The big question facing the new owner of this 1970 Mustang Fastback is what path to follow with its revival. Returning the car to its former glory via a faithful restoration would seem the most straightforward and cost-effective solution, especially if its engine proves healthy. However, if it requires a transplant, that may be enough motivation for someone to let their imagination off the leash for a Mach 1 or Boss tribute. Which path would you choose if this pony car found its way into your workshop?