1971 Ford Mustang

Ford Mustang 1971 - 1973

The Ford Mustang underwent a complete redesign for 1971 and grew bigger in every way except performance. The range was complex, with 10 engines offered: a base 155 bhp 250 cid six, a 210 bhp 302 cid V-8 in the Mach 1 and 330 bhp 351 cid V-8 in the Boss 351. Optional engines included a 210 bhp 302 V-8; a 240 bhp, 351 V-8; a 285 bhp 351 V-8; 370 bhp 429 and a 375 bhp Ram Air 429. All 351s were the Cleveland V-8 and the 429 engine option was based on the Lincoln 460 cid V-8, a larger unit than in the previous model, hence the car grew accordingly: the 1971 Ford Mustang is 2 inches longer than the 1970 model, and 3 inches wider.

The result wasn't received well. Mostly it seemed bulkier, and hardtops had a high trunk with flying buttresses and a tunnel back window. Sales dropped as a result.

Optional extras introduced power windows and a rear defroster, both offered for the first time, but the rear window slats were deleted as the fastback window was too flat. The dash was simplified to three large gauges, but enthusiasts could still get a sports option with gauges instead of warning lights and a tachometer.

The Mach 1 package was promoted as a sports option. It used a different grille, with a urethane-covered bumper in body colour, two driving lights in the grille and non-functional air vents. The bonnet and the lower body were black or silver, depending on the body colour. Interior decor featured wood applique, moulded door panels and knitted vinyl high-back bucket seats. Stripes and Mach 1 decals were applied to the exterior side panels.

The Boss 351 was a complete package with limited options. The 330 bhp Cleveland V-8 featured four-bolt mains, big valves, solid lifters, 11.7:1 compression, functional Ram Air intakes, a four-speed Hurst manual gearbox, 3.91:1 posi rear axle, power front disc brakes and spoiler and a chrome front bumper. The bonnet was mostly black and had two lock-downs.

The luxury model Grande had a full vinyl roof, lots of comfort and convenience accessories inside and cloth seats and exterior brightwork. It was available with all optional engines.

Nineteen colours were offered, though some of the best 1970 colours were gone. There were 29 interior combinations, and convertible tops were black or white.

The Ford Mustang wasn't offered for sale in the UK so any cars here will have been imported. Parts, even interior and trim items, are generally widely available, so the biggest problem may be corrosion and poor body repairs. Although V-8 models and the special editions are more desirable, buyers tend to spend more on condition than anything else.