Image of 1973 Ford Mustang, sourced from www.hagerty.com , Image Link.

1973 Ford Mustang: The Last of the First-Generation Stallions

The 1973 Ford Mustang galloped onto the automotive scene with a presence that marked the end of an era for the iconic first-generation Mustangs. Born from the ambition of Ford to create a car that catered to the post-war baby boom generation, the Mustang was initially introduced in 1964 and quickly became a symbol of American muscle and freedom. By 1973, amidst a landscape of changing regulations and fuel crises, this model stood as a testament to the enduring appeal of American performance cars. A notable moment in this vehicle's history is its Hollywood cameo in the classic film "Gone in 60 Seconds," which further cemented its place in pop culture.

Design and Innovation

With its long hood, short deck proportions, and muscular stance, the 1973 Mustang's exterior styling was both aggressive and elegant. The interior was a blend of comfort and simplicity, with options for high-grade vinyl or cloth upholstery. Technological features such as optional air conditioning and an AM/FM stereo radio were considered luxuries at the time. Color options ranged from Bright Red to Medium Blue Metallic, with popular choices often reflecting the bold and vibrant spirit of the era. Body styles included the hardtop, sportsroof (fastback), and convertible, with the sportsroof often being celebrated for its sleek profile.

Historical Significance

The '73 Mustang's impact on automotive design was substantial, as it represented the culmination of nearly a decade of muscle car dominance before shifting priorities would lead to a new direction for the Mustang line. It set itself apart with its combination of style, performance, and affordability—a formula that many contemporaries tried to emulate but few could match. Its lasting influence can be seen in how today's muscle cars balance power with more modern designs.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood, options ranged from a modest 250 cubic inch six-cylinder to a powerful 351 cubic inch V8 engine. Performance numbers varied accordingly, with top speeds reaching around 120 mph and acceleration times from 0-60 mph taking anywhere from 6 to 11 seconds depending on engine choice. Handling was typical for a muscle car of its size; it was sturdy on straightaways but required careful steering through tight turns. The driving experience was characterized by the throaty rumble of its V8 engines and a ride that felt grounded yet responsive.

Ownership Experience

The '73 Mustang served various roles from daily driving to weekend drag racing. Maintenance is straightforward for those familiar with classic American cars, making it relatively easy for average owners to keep their Mustangs in good shape. Parts are widely available due to its popularity among enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

A rare edition known as the "Mustang Sprint" was released in 1972-1973 featuring a patriotic red, white, and blue color scheme. Celebrity ownerships have included stars like Jay Leno. While some critics have pointed out its size increase over previous models or less aggressive performance compared to earlier years due to emissions regulations, it remains beloved by many.

Collector's Information

Today, values for a well-maintained 1973 Ford Mustang can vary significantly based on condition, originality, and engine type. Estimates suggest that tens of thousands were produced across all body styles. As interest in classic cars remains high, prices are generally appreciating, especially for models with larger engines or unique trim packages. A ballpark figure might see these vehicles selling anywhere from $15,000 for an average example up to $50,000 or more for pristine or rare variants.

Conclusion

The 1973 Ford Mustang stands as a powerful reminder of what made America's original pony car so appealing: style, performance, and an undeniable cool factor that transcends generations. As we look back at this classic machine's journey through American roads and culture, it's clear that its legacy is as enduring as the very spirit it was crafted to embody.

1973 Ford Mustang Brake Pedal Pad-CB 111-BBrake Pedal Pad, for models with manual transmission and disc brakes. 3-7/16" wide. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Brake Pedal Pad-CB 111-FBrake Pedal Pad, for models with manual transmission and manual brakes (without disc brakes). 3-1/2" wide. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Brake Pedal Pad, with center chrome ring-CB 111-JBrake Pedal Pad, with center chrome ring. For models with disc brakes. 5-7/16" wide. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Clutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-3/16" long X 3-3/8" wide-CB 111-KClutch and Brake Pedal Pads. 2-3/16" long X 3-3/8" wide. Pair

1973 Ford Mustang Gas Neck to Body Gasket. Made of Cork. 2-1/2" I.D-GF 46Gas Neck to Body Gasket. Made of Cork. 2-1/2" I.D., 3-11/16" O.D. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Door Seals, 71-73 Ford Mustang, Mercury Cougar 2 Doors, Pair-LM 10-DDoor Seals, 71-73 Ford Mustang, Mercury Cougar 2 Doors, Pair, R&L. Replaces OEM #'s D1ZZ-6520530-A & D1ZZ-6520531-A.

1973 Ford Mustang Airfoil Bracket to Body Pads. 2" wide X 4-3/8" long-MP 1050-AAirfoil Bracket to Body Pads. 2" wide X 4-3/8" long. Pair R&L

1973 Ford Mustang License Lamp Lens Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 3-1/8" long. Each-MP 1052-FLicense Lamp Lens Pad. 1-1/2" wide X 3-1/8" long. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #C7AZ2167-A-RP 2-BBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #C7AZ2167-A. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Door Lock Button Grommet. Made of clear plastic. Each-RP 303-LDoor Lock Button Grommet. Made of clear plastic. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Roof Rail Seals, 71-73 Ford Mustang Coupe/Fastback & Mercury Cougar Coupe, Pair-RR 6400-DRoof Rail Seals, 71-73 Ford Mustang Coupe/Fastback & Mercury Cougar Coupe, Pair. R&L. Replaces OEM #'s D1ZZ 6551222-A / D1ZZ 6551223-A.

1973 Ford Mustang Trunk Bumper. 7/8" high, 5/8" O.D. Each-SB 30Trunk Bumper. 7/8" high, 5/8" O.D. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Special Socket Plug. Fits a 1-1/2" hole. Each-SB 48Special Socket Plug. Fits a 1-1/2" hole. Each

1973 Ford Mustang Rear Roll-Up Window Seals, for 2-Door Fastback. Pair R&L-VS 3-TRear Roll-Up Window Seals, for 2-Door Fastback. Pair R&L. 15.5" Long. Replaces OEM #'s D1ZZ 6330146-A & D1ZZ 6330147-A.

1973 Ford Mustang Window Sweeper Set, 71-73 Mustang Convertible 8 piece-WC 6900-22This eight piece Window sweeper kits is the perfect solution for keeping your side windows clean when the glass is lowered. This set includes inner and outer seals for all side windows, and comes ready to install with finished ends and body curvature bends for a factory like appearance.

1973 Ford Mustang Window sweeper kit. Fits 71-73 Mustang Fastback 8 Piece Kit-WC 6900-23This eight (8) piece set includes inner and outer window sweeps. These sweeps keep the windows from rattling and wipe the glass as it is rolled up and down.

1973 Ford Mustang Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each-WF 228-AWindshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. Each