A Japanese Jewel: The Exceptional 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Cobra Jet

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This Mustang has a crazy history.

A 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1, embellished with the distinction of being a Cobra Jet and having originated from Japan, emerges as a magnificent relic of automotive history, remarkably preserved in impeccable condition. This iconic car, launched in 1969, marked its distinct presence amid the high-performance Mustang variants of the era, earning significant acclaim and witnessing overwhelming sales, a testament to its popularity and appeal.

See horrifying vintage crash test videos here.

The Mach 1, despite sharing its retail space with notable counterparts like the Boss and Shelby models, dominated the market, securing sales of over 70,000 units, a formidable feat leading to the discontinuation of the Mustang GT until 1982. This model, renowned for its distinctive V8 engine and a unique stripe package, quickly became synonymous with power and performance.

In 1971, Ford introduced a redesigned Mustang, maintaining the availability of the much-coveted Mach 1 package. The engine lineup underwent modifications, incorporating new additions and omitting the FE mill, with the Cobra Jet and Super Cobra Jet engines reigning supreme, delivering impressive horsepower and torque. The Mach 1’s allure endured, claiming almost 25% of the total Mustang sales, despite the dip in overall sales numbers due to escalated insurance rates for high-performance cars.

This specific Medium Green Mach 1 is a rare spectacle, not merely for being one of the 1,865 models equipped with a massive 429-cubic-inch V8 but due to its unique journey, being one of the few sold in Japan. It boasts an array of 25 factory options, including air conditioning, power windows, and a center console with additional gauges, exceeding its American counterparts in features.

Sold initially in Okinawa, Japan, this Mustang, characterized by its silver inserts on white seats and unique features distinct to the Japanese market, stands out as a true collector's piece. The car, featuring a kilometer speedometer, mirrors with shaved pointy ends, yellow rear-fender reflector lights, and various other unique elements, represents a meticulous amalgamation of American muscle and Japanese specifications.

This Mach 1, a J-code 429 V8 model and part of the 958 units equipped with the Cobra Jet engine, is an exquisite exemplification of rarity and uniqueness, considering its extensive options and color combination. It is one of the only 14 1971 Mach 1 Cobra Jets known to be sold in Japan, enhancing its historical and collectible value.

Even though its origin traces back to the Far East, the majority of this Mustang's existence unfolded in the United States, having returned in 1985, around 15 years post its assembly. Since its return, the car has seen multiple ownerships, ultimately evolving into an award-winning classic, meticulously restored to its original grandeur.

This one-of-a-kind gem, though largely unverified in terms of its unique status due to the absence of a Marty report, remains an undeniable piece of automotive history, a fusion of American muscle identity and Japanese distinctiveness, promising to be a focal point of any classic car collection. The immaculately preserved and restored 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Cobra Jet stands as a testament to the rich heritage and enduring allure of the iconic Mustang lineage.

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