Determining the desirability of a classic is sometimes challenging, but this 1969 Ford Mustang GT leaves no doubt. The auction action confirms that people like what they see and are willing to let their wallets do the talking. It presents well, with its reversible engine upgrades unlocking extra power. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the GT listed here on eBay in Dallas, Texas. Bidding has raced to $31,102, which is below the reserve.

The 1969 model year marked the end of the line for the Mustang’s revered GT badge. Ford retired it at the end of the year, and it wouldn’t return until 1982. This car is a mystery because the paint shade appears much lighter than the Royal Maroon that the seller suggested. My belief is strengthened by this trunk shot, with the paint darker in that area than on the exterior. The seller admits that the Mustang underwent a clear-over-base repaint, and it is possible that the process included a change to a lighter shade. Beyond that question, the vehicle’s presentation is comfortably acceptable for a driver-grade classic. There are no significant cosmetic imperfections, and life in Texas has kept the car rust-free. The trim and glass are in excellent condition, while the Magnum 500 wheels and BF Goodrich tires are relatively new.

Decoding the VIN confirms that the first owner ordered this GT powered by the H-Code version of the company’s 351ci V8. The factory quoted power and torque figures of 250hp and 355 ft/lbs, but this motor should deliver more. Somebody swapped the original two-barrel carburetor and matching intake for a four-barrel setup, and coupled with a recent engine rebuild, power should have climbed to at least 300hp. Purists will welcome the news that the seller retained the factory carburetor and intake, making it straightforward to reverse the changes. Power is fed to the rear via a four-speed manual transmission, and the brakes feature upgraded Wilwood discs and calipers. The seller confirms that the GT runs and drives well, with plenty of power and a smooth-shifting four-speed. It is ready to provide the winning bidder with immediate classic motoring pleasure.

The first owner ordered this GT with its interior trimmed in Black vinyl. They didn’t opt for luxury features like air conditioning or a console, but selected an AM radio for in-car entertainment. The seller added a column-mounted Sunpro Super Tach II, which appears to be the only change. As with the exterior, this interior isn’t perfect. However, with no rips or tears and only minor door-trim wrinkles, it is another aspect of this classic that meets driver-grade standards.

The 1969 release of the Mach 1 signalled the end of GT production. Falling sales prompted Ford to throw its advertising weight behind the Mach 1, and only 5,396 GTs left the factory during that model year. The listing statistics for this Mustang extend well beyond the 29 submitted bids. With Listing View and Watch List tallies of over 600 and 52, respectively, this GT has struck a chord with potential buyers. Have you ever owned a First Generation Mustang GT? Would you consider doing so again by joining what is fast becoming a bidding war for this classic? I wish you good luck if you do.