1972 R Code Mach 1

[tcpippro]

I am contemplating taking a look at one this weekend and would appreciate some help on things to look for, i.e. what engine parts would be difficult/expensive to find if missing. Any ideas on what the values of these cars may be? Thanks for any help provided.

[gxr02190]

Original engine, and rear differential are huge plusses. Because of their limited production (total production of only 398 cars) these items are almost non-existent. Prices will reflect this. Another even rarer car would be a 1971 Q-code mustang, total production of only 144 cars. Again, it would be hard to find date-coded original engine and drive train parts. Just about everything else can be found without too much trouble - not cheap, but available. Rust issues plagued these cars so make sure to check the integrity of the unibody structure, (cowl, torqueboxes, shock towers etc... Happy hunting!

[Rare Pony]

Welcome to the site. The 71/73's are picking up in popularity and the reproduction parts are increasing. I agree with GXR, check out the condition of the body pretty closely.

[Steven Harris]

An R code! Please take some pictures (the more the merrier) if you can and let us know what you find. We live to dream!

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I got so excited with your prospects that I forgot to say Hi. Hi. Welcome and let us know a little about yourself.

[tcpippro]

Thanks for the replies! Car is in Jacksonville, FL. about 2 hrs from me. As you may suspect, a lot of interest in this one from several folks so owner is going to pull the auction. Owner says all original drive train, moderate rust issues were repaired, motor rebuilt and car is in primer. I am a little cautious as under hood pictures show missing ps cooler, rev limiter, export braces. Also has Holley carb and headers as well. Owner says he has original autolite spread bore and air cleaner. 15K is the asking price. Your thoughts?

[ponypastor]

   
I restored and sold a Grabber Blue 1972 R Code Mach 1 a few years ago. I've attached some pix for you to see what it might look like. The important items I think have been mentioned: make sure the the solid lifter 351 HO motor is matching numbers (numbers found on the block, drivers side, below the brake booster--bring long-handled mirror and flashlight), the drive train original (3.91 trac). I've attached an article from Mustang Monthly that covers this rare car. Far less popular than its older cousin, the 71 Boss 351.
If you wish to speak to a current owner (here in Florida) of a restored 72 R Code (which he did himself) , let me know. He lives in Brandon, FL
Tim



   
    http://www.mustangmonthly.com/featuredvehicles/mump_0706_1972_mustang_ho/index.html

[ohiomustang]

I am contemplating taking a look at one this weekend and would appreciate some help on things to look for, i.e. what engine parts would be difficult/expensive to find if missing. Any ideas on what the values of these cars may be? Thanks for any help provided.

I would check motor numbers, trans numbers and most importantly
Loosen fender bolts and check shock tower numbers
Seen many cars with incorrect dash pad / VIN 's on the dash and door
Don

[tcpippro]

How far should a seller be willing to go during an inspection? I am not new to cars, however I am some what new to the collector car purchasing game and inspection etiquette.

[ponypastor]

Sellers of high dollar or rare vehicles--like the 72 R Code--must be willing to "open up the files" for buyers to inspect. After all, the draw for these vehicles is their rarity. Only the matching numbers can authenticate the rarity. It is way too easy to change out the dash and turn an F (302) or H code (351-2v) into an R Code. Save your self disappointment and $ by asking the hard questions and inspecting the important numbers. Tim

[MOSS]

Sellers of high dollar or rare vehicles--like the 72 R Code--must be willing to "open up the files" for buyers to inspect. After all, the draw for these vehicles is their rarity. Only the matching numbers can authenticate the rarity. It is way too easy to change out the dash and turn an F (302) or H code (351-2v) into an R Code. Save your self disappointment and $ by asking the hard questions and inspecting the important numbers. Tim

Yep, happened to me a few years ago on a 71 white boss 351. Bought it from a small dealer in San Antonio and got it home on the lift. The vin on the apron did not match. Pulled a marty on the frame vin and it was a green 302 sport coupe. The seller gave me the money back quick and picked the car up. He did not know either. Check it well.