Lot 047: 1969 Ford Mustang Mach I

A concept car turned production model the Mach 1 debuted in 1969. Slotting into the Mustang's performance hierarchy between the lower priced GT and more track-orientated BOSS machines, the newcomer was brimful of visual menace. Only available as a 'Sports Roof' fastback, its 'war paint' included a matt black hood with prominent scoop, chrome gas cap, rear fender ducts and striking side graphics (while, a 'shaker hood', front / rear spoilers and slatted rear window cover etc were optional). Boasting teak wood grain details, pod-style instrumentation, full sound deadening and high-back sport bucket seats to its interior, the two-door also benefited from 'Competition Suspension' with a heavy-duty anti-roll bar, stiffer spring rates, revised shock absorber valving and 16:1 steering. Powered by a choice of 351ci, 390ci or 428ci 'Cobra Jet' V8 engines allied to either three-speed manual or automatic transmission, the vast majority of Mach 1s to roll off the San Jose, Dearborn and Metuchen assembly lines were specified with the 351ci Windsor powerplant and FMX cast-iron slush 'box. Given that the 'weediest' version was rated at 250hp and the most powerful at 335hp, it seems strange that front disc brakes were extra . . . One of those cars that just rides the zeitgeist, the Mach 1 was a huge sales success accounting for over twenty percent of all Mustang production in its first year. Though, today genuine survivors are comparatively few and far between. Finished in black with red side stripes and black upholstery, this particular left-hand drive example is variously described by the vendor as being in "good" (5.7 litre engine, automatic transmission, electrical equipment, interior trim) or "very good" (chassis, bodywork, paintwork) condition. Reportedly "a matching numbers ex-Florida car", 'NNA983G' is further understood to sport "a tilt wheel, shaker hood, high-lift cam, performance manifold / headers and folding rear seats". An iconic American 'muscle car', this desirable Mach 1 Mustang is offered for sale with "full Marti report, build sheet, sundry bills" and MOT certificate valid until May 2009. PLEASE NOTE: The registration number of this vehicle is `NNA 983G' and not `G619 FFH' as misprinted within the catalogue description.