The Reading Warehouse

Examine the 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 with this detailed look at the car's launch, history, and unique parts options, including powerplants from the big-block Cobra Jet to the small-block Windsor.

By the time the 1969 model year rolled around, it was well established that muscle cars were fast and plentiful. Every manufacturer had at least one corner of the showroom where the "go fast" guys could congregate and discuss the merits and time slips of the latest performance offerings. Competition being what it was, the manufacturers were looking for ways to entice potential buyers to choose their product over ever-increasing offerings from the competition. Some manufacturers tried to accomplish this with affordable prices, some tried fancy marketing schemes, and some created a look and a style that screamed "performance" even when standing still.

The 1969 Mach I was Ford's attempt to create a package and a style to match the performance of its recently released and very potent 428-ci Cobra Jet engine package. Displacing the still-available but more conservative GT trim, the Mach I included unique graphics and mechanical innovations, such as a shaker hood scoop, dual racing mirrors, deluxe interior, competition suspension, dual chrome exhaust tips, and a blacked-out hood. The result was a wildly popular model that sold more than 70,000 units, compared to slightly more than 5,000 GT models for the year.

Each volume in the In Detail series provides an introduction and historical overview, an explanation of the design and concepts involved in creating the car, a look at marketing and promotion, an in-depth study of all hardware and available options, and an examination of where the car is on the market today. Also included are paint and option codes, VIN and build tag decoders, as well as production numbers.