1973 Ford Mustang Grande Coupe

1973 Ford Mustang Grande Coupe
Chassis no. 3F04H191543
351ci High Output H-Code OHV V8 Engine
Single 4-bbl. Carburetor
250bhp at 4,600rpm
4-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent Front Suspension, Live Rear axle
Front Disc, Rear Drum Brakes

*Largely original, restored to driver condition
*The 'luxury' Mustang
*Desirable four-speed transmission
*Elegant Gold Metallic with brown vinyl roof

THE MUSTANG GRANDE

The terms "Pony Car" and "Mustang" are virtually synonymous. Ford, to its ever-lasting credit, created an entirely new genre of automobiles when it launched its long-hood, short-deck Mustang coupe in early 1964. Under its skin, the new Mustang was essentially a Ford Falcon, but that didn't bother eager buyers, who snapped up the notchback coupe in drives upon its introduction. That model was soon followed by a sexy fastback and then a convertible, and the Mustang line was off and galloping, spurring rivals like Chevrolet – followed by sibling Pontiac – and then Chrysler, and even Ford stablemate Mercury, to play catch-up. Although there were some lamentable versions such as the Mustang II in the 1980s, early-generation Mustangs remain incredibly popular today.

For 1969, Ford added a dollop of luxury to the Mustang name with its limited-edition "Grande" coupe. The Grande was a trim package available only on coupes, but it could be had with some strong underpinnings. It included a contrasting grained vinyl roof skin, a double-scooped hood, body-accent striping, different wheel covers, a special interior with Lambeth cloth and vinyl, an upgraded dashboard with wood-grain accents, an electric clock, a trunk mat, and color-keyed dual mirrors.

Underhood, things could get interesting. Although the base engine was a mild 250ci inline six, most buyers went for the three V8 options, two of which were 351s. The strongest of those was the top-of-the-line Q-code 351 four-barrel with an under-rated 266 horsepower. Tied to a four-speed manual transmission and perhaps the also-optional "Traction-Lok" rear axle, this version could be a flyer.

As Motor Trend magazine would note, "The Grande's fifth year, 1973, was its last. A new, smaller Mustang was on the way for 1974, and the Grande, along with the convertible body style, would fall by the wayside. Looking more luxurious than ever on the mildly revamped '73 body, the Grande went out in grand style by selling 25,274 units, more than any other Grande model year. The fact that it retailed for only $206 more than the standard hardtop-$2,946 versus $2,740-obviously didn't hurt." There was also a long list of options from which to choose, and most Grandes were well-equipped.

THE MOTORCAR OFFERED

This 1973 Grande coupe was delivered in Medium Yellow Metallic Gold with a brown vinyl roof. With a pair of front bucket seats and a padded console, the interior was a tasteful combination of brown and tan vinyl and cloth. It is equipped with the big 351-four-barrel and four-speed manual and rolls on wide BF Goodrich Radial T/A rubber wrapped around chrome-and-black styled steel wheels. There are power-assisted front disc brakes and air-conditioning. The odometer suggest that this Grande coupe has been driven just 30,313 miles, but that cannot be verified.

This a very rare Mustang, offering great performance along with lots of comfort. Although it's 50 years old, it would certainly draw a lot of attention at local Cars and Coffee gatherings.