1970 Buick GSX Takes on 1971 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet in Pure Stock Drag Race

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A thrilling quarter-mile drag race pits the 1970 Buick GSX against the rare 1971 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet at Pure Stock Muscle Car Drag Race series.

At the Pure Stock Muscle Car Drag Race (PSMCDR) series, golden-era muscle cars battle it out on the quarter-mile track, showcasing raw, vintage American power. This time, two rare classics went head-to-head: a 1970 Buick GSX and a 1971 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet. Both of these “sleepers” may appear modest on the outside, but each hides a powerful V8 engine ready to unleash some serious torque.

In one lane, we have the 1970 Buick GSX. Buick’s Gran Sport first hit the scene in 1965, but it wasn’t until 1970 that the GSX performance package became available, adding both appearance and handling upgrades. This particular GSX is equipped with the sought-after Stage 1 engine option, featuring a 455-cubic-inch (7.4-liter) V8 producing 360 horsepower and an impressive 510 lb-ft of torque. As one of only 280 models in white (and even fewer with the Stage 1 package and a three-speed automatic), this GSX is a rare gem in the Buick lineup.

Facing off in the other lane is an equally unique competitor—a silver 1971 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet. While Ford sold a considerable number of Mustangs in 1971, this particular model, equipped with the potent 429-cubic-inch (7.0-liter) Cobra Jet Ram Air engine, is a true unicorn. With 370 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, only 14 of these coupes came with automatic transmissions, making it one of the rarest Mustangs of its era.

On paper, the two cars are closely matched, with the GSX boasting more torque and the Mustang carrying slightly more horsepower. However, the Mustang is about 200 pounds lighter, which could give it an edge. But racing often defies the stats, and in the PSMCDR series, certain modifications to the drivetrain are allowed, making it anyone’s game.

In the first race, the Buick GSX jumps off the line and takes the lead, clocking a quarter-mile time of 13.4 seconds, while the Mustang trails at 13.9 seconds. In the second race, both cars improve their times, with the Mustang getting a better launch, but the GSX ultimately wins again with a 13-second run. The Mustang crosses the finish line at 13.25 seconds, posting an impressive 104.6 mph trap speed.

With two out of three wins, the Buick GSX advances to the next round, proving that torque and power from the golden era of muscle cars can still thrill today’s audiences. The competition is fierce, and these classics remind us why muscle cars hold a timeless appeal.

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