1973 Ford Mustang Mach 1 – Q-Code Cleveland Power with Ram Air Spirit
Few names in American muscle car history carry as much reverence as the Ford Mustang Mach 1—and in 1973, the final year of the first generation, the Mach 1 remained a bold performance symbol despite looming emissions regulations and insurance pressures. This specific example, a Bright Red beauty originally delivered to Joe Myers Ford in Houston, Texas, offers a vivid time capsule into the era’s muscle legacy with its Q-code 351 Cleveland V8, C6 automatic, factory SelectAire A/C, and striking factory options.
The Mach 1 Legacy and the 1973 Evolution
The 1973 Mustang Mach 1 was the culmination of the original pony car's first-generation styling, retaining the elongated fastback profile but adopting updated safety bumpers and subtle body refinements to meet federal mandates. While Ford shifted focus slightly toward refinement, the Mach 1 still offered potent engine choices and sporty styling. The Q-code 351 Cleveland 4V V8—an underrated performer known for its large-port heads—delivered robust torque and remained a favorite among enthusiasts.
Only 6,568 1973 Mach 1s were equipped with the Q-code 351 paired with the C6 automatic transmission, making this example a standout for its factory performance credentials and correct powertrain combination.
Factory-Built Muscle With a Personal Touch
This Mustang Mach 1 left the Dearborn plant on November 24, 1972—three days behind its scheduled build date—and was loaded with a long list of premium features. According to the Marti Report, this car was one of only 1,836 produced in this exact Bright Red over Black Knit Vinyl configuration, and one of 3,256 to feature the Black Levant vinyl roof.
Under the hood is the original numbers-matching Q-code 351 Cleveland 4V engine (casting D2AE-CA), now enhanced with a Petronix ignition and coil setup. The engine breathes through manifolds and a dual exhaust system with aftermarket mufflers and full tailpipes. While the original factory Ram Air system wasn’t ordered new, a period-correct aftermarket Ram Air setup has since been added to maximize the Cleveland’s potential.
Features and Finish: A Mach 1 Loaded with Character
Inside, the Mustang retains its correct GA-code Black Knit Vinyl bucket seats with newer upholstery. It features the Mach 1 Sports Interior Package, center console with floor shifter, and a factory tachometer. Manual windows and locks, along with tinted glass and rear bumper guards, round out the vintage options.
Comfort features include power front disc brakes, power steering, and SelectAire air conditioning—professionally converted to R134A and blowing cold. Though the aftermarket AM/FM/8-track radio and console clock are currently inoperative, their presence maintains authenticity.
The car sits on new 15-inch Magnum 500 wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires (235/60R15 front and 255/60R15 rear), with 2025 date codes ensuring modern drivability. The factory 9-inch rear end and front sway bar provide solid support, and while the undercarriage shows some age, it remains solid and structurally sound.
A Bright Red Time Capsule
Repainted in its factory-correct 2B Bright Red, this Mach 1 carries its heritage with pride. Its stance, color, and vintage appeal harken back to a time when muscle cars roared down the street with authority. With just 2,047 miles showing on the odometer (though actual mileage is undocumented), it has clearly lived a well-preserved life. The original Ford invoice confirms many of the car’s factory-installed options including the vinyl roof, AM radio, console, tinted glass, and more.
Whether admired for its factory Q-code Cleveland heart, visual impact, or its documented history, this 1973 Mustang Mach 1 stands as a well-preserved, high-optioned classic that marks the end of an unforgettable era.
PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas is proud to have documented and preserved this exceptional piece of Ford history. Known for curating a wide array of iconic vehicles, PC Classic Cars is a trusted source for enthusiasts seeking quality and authenticity.
PC Classic Cars is always looking for exceptional classic vehicles like this one. If you own a 1960s–1980s American classic—especially a Mustang, Camaro, or other muscle car—reach out to our team. We specialize in purchasing well-maintained classics, and we're passionate about preserving automotive history one vehicle at a time.