The first-generation Ford Mustang was manufactured by Ford from March 1964 until 1973. The introduction of the Mustang created a new class of automobiles known as pony cars. The...
The first-generation Ford Mustang was manufactured by Ford from March 1964 until 1973. The introduction of the Mustang created a new class of automobiles known as pony cars. The Mustang's styling, with its long hood and short deck, proved wildly popular and inspired a host of competition.
It was introduced on April 17, 1964, as a hardtop and convertible with the fastback version to follow in August 1964. Upon introduction, the Mustang, sharing its platform with the Falcon, was slotted into the compact car segment.
With each revision, the first-generation Mustangs grew in overall dimensions and engine power. The 1971 model saw a drastic redesign. After an initial surge, sales steadily declined as Ford began working on a new generation Mustang. With the onset of the 1973 oil crisis, Ford was prepared, having already designed the smaller Mustang II for the 1974 model year. This new car shared no components with preceding models.
Introduced in September 1970, the 1971 Mustang was green-lighted by Ford's new president, Semon "Bunkie" Knudsen, formerly of General Motors. Again, the revised model grew in size, gaining 3 inches in width to accommodate Ford's big block 429 cu in (7.0 L) V8 without need for an extensive suspension redesign.
As before there were three body styles offered: Hardtop (available in base or Grande trim), SportsRoof (available in base or Mach 1 trim), and convertible (no specific trim packages available).
This 73 Mustang was purchased new at Sharp Ford here on the south side of Indy by the consignor, and has been garage stored its entire life. An educator, he opted for the more economical 6 cylinder engine since gas prices had recently doubled to .50 per gallon. He has kept the car through a few moves and changes in his life, but has always kept the car garaged. At one point he had the engine rebuilt, and the car repainted in Burgundy with matching seat upholstery installed (the car was originally green). An aftermarket stereo has been installed but the original Philco AM radio is still in the trunk, along with the original hubcaps, spare wheel and jack.
The car runs and drives very well and needs nothing really to be immediately enjoyed. Everything works on the car. This is a great opportunity to get a turn key seldom seen '73 Mustang in base trim.