Ford Mustang Mach 1 1971

Development of the first-generation Mustang for the 1969 model year was entrusted to design manager Simon “Bunkie” Knudsen, who had moved from General Motors. The slogan “more of a good thing” suited the changes: the enlarged car gained 50 kg.

Stylist Larry Shinoda nevertheless preserved the overall proportions and recognisable character of the 1964 model. The changes chiefly aimed to accommodate the Boss 429 engine, which would not fit the previous body. NASCAR participation required a production car, so the body had to grow.

The sporty Mach 1 was among the first cars in the world with front and rear spoilers that pressed it onto the road at speed. Performance varied greatly with specification and engine tuning. Cars were even built with the 4.1-litre, 155 hp Ford Thriftpower Six 250. The most powerful engines included the 5.8-litre, 290 hp Ford Windsor V8 351 4V fitted to the Mach 1, and the seven-litre 429 Super Cobra Jet with up to 500 hp.