1971 Mach 1 decision; Need advice

[classicsguy]

Last year I purchased a 1971 Mach 1 (M-code,auto) Factory red car project,the car needs to have a lot of sheetmetal replaced, Floors,trunk floor,fenders quarter panel skins tail light panel,hood and Lh door. I put off the project for about a year and in the meantime I got the opportunity to purchase another project Mustang (1967 Fastback S -code) but its a rust free shell.No drivetrain

I can only keep 1 car and have to have work done by a shop since I do not have the ability to do it myself.I have a couple of shops that can do the work and can work by stages with the project.

I purchased the 1971 Mach since its a M -code with its engine and transmisiion and it was a running car with lots of options like air,tilt wheel p/w.A few years ago had I had a 1972 Mach...but sold it

I though about selling the Mach but now I am not that sure since the fastback its also a big project ..but not much sheet metal work since its rust free.

I know the Mach 1 when finished wont be worth what I put into it...thats for sure...

Which car do you think should I keep and restore? I know that decision will be mine at the end but any input from this forum is valuable

 

[Doug The Dog]

Replacing sheet metal is a time consuming, costly procedure. Trust me, I know first hand. You need to ask yourself what will make you the happiest? If you are doing it for an investment and would consider selling it when you're done, build the 67. I believe that the "S" code is a 390 car. You can find the drive train and trim parts for it easily. (not as easy as a 289 or 302, but still readily available). If the 71 is more to your taste, and you want to keep it. Build it! You won't get out of it what you put in to it. (unless you are a skilled body man/welder). another option would be to sell both cars and put the $$$ into a 71-73 Mach1 that is rust free or at least solid. Just my opinion.

 

[Mikes73]

As much as I love the 71-73's I would probably choose the 67 because putting a drivetrain into a car isn't all that hard and that car should be more valuable when finished, plus all original sheet metal is a definate bonus.

 

[JimNiki]

If you can't do the body work yourself, keep the S code.

It's rarer and the 67 is a classic shape which can sell easier ...

But then you won't have the original engine/drivetrain for the S code whereas you will for the mach.

I'd still keep the 67 unless you're made of money....

 

[classicsguy]

Replacing sheet metal is a time consuming, costly procedure. Trust me, I know first hand. You need to ask yourself what will make you the happiest? If you are doing it for an investment and would consider selling it when you're done, build the 67. I believe that the "S" code is a 390 car. You can find the drive train and trim parts for it easily. (not as easy as a 289 or 302, but still readily available). If the 71 is more to your taste, and you want to keep it. Build it! You won't get out of it what you put in to it. (unless you are a skilled body man/welder). another option would be to sell both cars and put the $$$ into a 71-73 Mach1 that is rust free or at least solid. Just my opinion.

Thats another alternative....sell both cars and get a solid 71-73....but with a 4 speed this time....

Thanks

 

[rvrtrash]

Luis,

It comes down to what you want more when it's done. If you have to replace that much sheet metal in the '71, you'll also have to do everything else to make it right, much the same as the '67 probably needs. Sheet metal work is very expensive, especially since aftermarket panels never fit right. Unless you're really attached to the '71, I'd go with the '67 as well.

Steve

(Yes, also on CS.com)

 

[LCB1]

As much as I love the 71-73's I would probably choose the 67 because putting a drivetrain into a car isn't all that hard and that car should be more valuable when finished, plus all original sheet metal is a definate bonus.

+1

 

[classicsguy]

Just to clear up..the 1967 GT Fastback has had previous sheet metal replacement;

Lower quarters

trunk floor

Front floor pans

Thanks for the replies so far!

 

[hyena429]

Yup i agree..if not happy with either...Sell them both and buy a solid one you like ...but if you have to keep one the 67 is a no brainer...As much as i love our mach 1's they will not be worth as much..But too me that does not matter...Cause i like my car better than a fastback 67 and would not trade for one..lol..But i do like 67 fastbacks...I just like 71-73's more ...They fit me better.. and ride nicer , and have more engine bay room.

 

[caspianwendell]

Build the 67 fastback

 

[Jeff73Mach1]

Drop the 71 drivetrain into the 67 and sell off the remains. You'll be in a driveable car much faster.

 

[mach71351c]

Build the 67 fastback

+1

Drop the 71 drivetrain into the 67 and sell off the remains. You'll be in a driveable car much faster.

+1