01-15-2012, 10:14 AM
Back in 1971, I wanted to get a Mach 1 in the worst way. I tried to save and save to get one, but couldn't afford one. Then in 1972 I went to my local Ford Dealer and told the salesman what I would like to get. I wanted a Mach 1 with a 351 - 4bbl., 4 speed, white with black stripes and spoliers, am radio with an 8 track. I wound up with a regular mustang fastback with a 302 and automatic. I think my father called ahead and told the salesman "to give him what he wants as long as he didn't get what he wants". In spring 2005 I started my search for a 1971 Mach 1. I picked up the Special Interest newspaper to check for cars shows in the Lower Hudson Valley. I saw this ad and figured the car was probably sold. I called the guy and went to see the car. The next weekend I had bought the car. I finally got the car, a sliver blue Mach 1, 351 4bbl., a speed. When work was crazy, I would come home spent and my wife would say go to the garage and I'd sit for a bit in the Mach. Came back upstairs renewed. It took 34 years to get the car. A little more than a daily driver, but it's mine. Now I'm trying to get back the way it would came out of the factory in 1971. I have three offers or so to sell the car, but I would tell them, I waited too long for this car.