Chassis No. 0F05R114501

Today one of the most famous names in the Mustang world, the Mach 1 originally debuted for 1969, as a still higher-performance variant of the GT with a 351, 390, or 428 cu-in V8 under the hood of a SportsRoof fastback coupe. Each example came with a matte black pin-locked hood with scoop, as well as competition suspension, chrome gas cap and exhaust tips, and most often fitment of rear window louvers and spoiler. Most desirable was the version fitted with the 428 Super Cobra Jet V8 with the Drag Pack, including a steel crankshaft, larger 427-style connecting rods, forged pistons, adjustable rocker arms, oil cooler, and heavy-duty Toploader four-speed transmission delivering its power to a nodular rear end with special gearing. This engine continued in availability into the 1970 model year, which also saw the introduction of dual-beam headlights, recessed taillights, and lightly reworked bodywork, striping, and badging.

According to its Lois Eminger gate release, which is included in the file, this particular car was sold new to the Ford Motor Company and assigned as a "Special Purpose Vehicle," for use to Public Relations likely in the Los Angeles area.

Both the gate release – extending over two pages! – and an accompanying Marti Report note that the car was delivered with the "R-code" Super Cobra Jet V8 with Drag Pack, four-speed close-ratio manual transmission, power front disc brakes, quick-ratio power steering, "rim blow" tilt steering wheel, AM/FM Deluxe stereo radio, intermittent windshield wipers, tachometer, tinted glass, and California emissions equipment. The body was finished in Bright Blue Metallic with a black hood stripe, "Shaker" hood, rear window "Sport Slats," and rear deck spoiler, as well as blue knit fabric and vinyl bucket seats. Altogether the roster of equipment adds up to some $1,550 in options on a $2,600 car. Indicative of the car's apparent significance, it is noted as having been produced on 2 October 1969, actually on schedule, rather than the delayed build often seen on Marti Reports.

The car was superbly restored by a former owner and is very correctly finished, with original spot welds still visible underneath and a stainless-steel exhaust system fitted, as well as proper equipment including the correct air cleaner snorkel, vacuum advance, and oil cooler for the Drag Pack option. Only the wheels have been changed, to chrome Magnum 500s, while the rear slats and spoiler are mirror-finished as is not often seen, although this may have been a peculiarity to this Public Relations "special." At the time of cataloging, it had recorded 49,519 miles.

This is an especially rare and desirable example of the famed Mach 1, lavishly optioned and designed to impress from the moment of its construction.

Collection Guarantee Disclosure

Please note that as part of a larger collection to be offered at live and online auctions, the Consignor of the Gateway Collection has been guaranteed a minimum price for certain cars, including this Lot, by Broad Arrow. Depending on the final Hammer Price obtained for those Lots, Broad Arrow may benefit financially.