The muscle-car era had waned dramatically by 1973, but many enthusiasts still sought every horsepower Detroit could muster, and when it came to the Mustang, more than a quarter of its production total for the year was for the muscular Mach 1. This 1973 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is a numbers-matching, Q-code 351 CJ car. It wears a respray of the original 9A-code White exterior color and the engine has been rebuilt. Although not advertised as a Cobra Jet engine, the optional Q-code 351 Cleveland four-barrel engine that was ordered for this Mach 1 was referred to as the “351 CJ” in Ford manuals. According to the seller, this one is the numbers-matching original and it has been rebuilt, with a slight overbore, a forged steel crankshaft, upgraded pistons, and what is believed to be a slightly hotter camshaft. There’s also an Edelbrock aluminum intake manifold, a Holley four-barrel carb, aftermarket finned valve covers, an MSD ignition coil, and long-tube headers, which flow into low-restriction mufflers. There’s also an aluminum radiator and braided steel hoses. The seller notes the engine starts and runs well, with no smoke and no leaks. It is paired with a three-speed automatic transmission that reportedly shifts well. The Mach 1 model also included a 9-inch rear axle. this Mach 1 was repainted its original 9A-code White color six years ago and that its quality is “excellent.” There a few noted dings and paint chips, but no apparent rust in the body. The glass is older and shows minor scratches, says the seller, who notes the complementing seals are older, too, and are deteriorating. Replacement seals for many of them are included with the sale. Additionally, the original front and rear spoilers have been replaced, and the exterior trim and chrome appears to be in very good condition. The exterior lighting is reported as functional. Inside, the black vinyl interior appears to be in very good condition, with “excellent”-condition, apparently replacement seat covers showing essentially no wear. The carpet, however, is said to be deteriorating and “needs attention.” The dome light reportedly works, along with the heater, and all of the gauges are said to be original. The temperature gauge is not functional and may not be connected, says the seller, who adds that the factory clock is also inoperable. The only deviation from stock in the cabin is an aftermarket audio system and speakers. The radio antenna is missing. the chassis, suspension, and brakes have been restored and, with many components, upgraded. The front suspension features replacement lower control arm assemblies, with Global West tubular arms and strut rods, as well as a Global West coilover kit and a renewed power-steering system with cooler. In the rear, the suspension has replacement leaf springs, shocks and bushings, and CalTracs traction bars. Further, the seller reports the brake system was “completely refurbished,” including a replacement master cylinder, reservoir, and lines. The car rolls on “new” 15-inch Mickey Thompson tires mounted on period-perfect aluminum five-slot “mag” wheels, which appear to be in very good condition.
