1973 Ford Mustang Convertible, Show-Winning, 44-Year Ownership, 351 Cleveland V8, Red with Black Bucket Seat Interior
This 1973 Ford Mustang Convertible is a standout example of a well-preserved and thoughtfully upgraded classic, backed by an incredible 44 years of single ownership. A true show-winning car, this Mustang reflects decades of care, pride, and continuous improvement, resulting in a high-quality automobile that is both visually striking and mechanically sorted.
Finished in red over a black bucket seat interior, this Mustang delivers the perfect combination of classic muscle-era styling and open-air driving enjoyment. The body was stripped to bare metal and professionally repainted in 1998, and it still presents at an impressive 9.5 out of 10. The car is described as having zero rust, a testament to both its history and the level of care it has received over the years.
Under the hood is a rebuilt 351 Cleveland V8 with standard bore, enhanced with an Edelbrock intake and carburetor, Crane camshaft, and Hooker headers. The engine is further supported by 2-barrel heads that have received a proper three-angle valve job, along with a complete and functional ram air system. The result is a strong-running, responsive powerplant that delivers both performance and reliability.
Power is transferred through a rebuilt C6 automatic transmission equipped with a high stall speed torque converter, paired with a 3.50 traction-lock rear end. This combination provides excellent acceleration and a confident driving experience, whether cruising or stepping into the throttle.
The suspension has been upgraded for improved handling and stance, including a two-inch drop, front and rear sway bars, subframe connectors, and all new bushings. A new quick-ratio steering box enhances responsiveness, making this Mustang feel tight and composed on the road.
The interior blends originality with tasteful restoration. It features a perfect original dash, deluxe door panels, and reupholstered seats. The factory Ford gauges are all present and functional, including the tachometer, oil pressure gauge, ammeter, and clock. Power steering, power brakes, and a power convertible top add to the driving comfort and usability.
A brand-new convertible top was installed in February 2026 by Convertible Creations in DeLand and carries an 8-year guarantee. All weather seals have also been replaced, ensuring a tight, well-finished cabin.
Additional exterior enhancements include a Mach 1-style grille, stripes, and front spoiler, giving the car a more aggressive and desirable appearance while staying true to the era.
Included with the car are the original 4-barrel heads and exhaust manifolds, along with the owner’s manual, original sales brochure, and various miscellaneous parts—further adding to its value and provenance.
This is not just a classic Mustang it is a long-term owned, show-quality example with the right upgrades, documentation, and presentation to satisfy even the most particular enthusiast.
Key Highlights:
1973 Ford Mustang Convertible
Same owner for 44 years
Show-winning car
Finished in red with black bucket seat interior
351 Cleveland V8, rebuilt (standard bore)
Edelbrock intake and carburetor
Crane camshaft
Hooker headers
2V heads with three-angle valve job
Functional ram air system
Rebuilt C6 automatic transmission
High stall speed torque converter
3.50 traction-lock rear end
Lowered suspension (approx. 2 inches)
Front and rear sway bars
Subframe connectors
All suspension bushings replaced
New quick-ratio steering box
Body stripped to bare metal and repainted in 1998 (still shows extremely well)
Zero rust
New convertible top (02/2026) with 8-year warranty
All weather seals replaced
Mach 1 grille, stripes, and front spoiler
Original dash and deluxe door panels
Reupholstered seats
Factory gauges all functional (tach, oil pressure, ammeter, clock)
Power steering, power brakes, power top
Includes original 4V heads and exhaust manifolds
Includes owner’s manual, sales brochure, and miscellaneous parts
A high-quality, well-documented Mustang convertible that offers the perfect balance of originality, performance, and long-term ownership pedigree.
While we do our best to provide the highest quality muscle cars with an honest and reliable description and realize the importance of transparency when selling vehicles. That being said, we have not built, modified, changed or personally owned this vehicle. Whether this vehicle is consigned or owned by Past & Present Motor Cars we do not know the vehicles complete history since new. We want to be clear and try to answer any questions our customers might have prior to purchasing. Additionally, we not only welcome but we encourage 3rd party independent inspections. Please inquire prior to purchase to make sure the advertised vehicle has not already been sold. We list our vehicles on multiple websites and a vehicle can sell at any time. If a customer chooses to purchase sight unseen (many of our customers choose this option) the customer accepts the vehicle AS IS and WHERE IS and understands we cannot address concerns after purchase. For this reason, it's important all concerns are addressed prior to purchase. We make every effort to present accurate and reliable information, but use of this information is voluntary, and should only be deemed reliable after an independent review of its accuracy, completeness, and timeliness. It is the sole responsibility of the customer to verify the existence of options, accessories and the vehicle condition before time of sale. Financing is Available with low rates and Vehicle Shipping is available from our Showroom to your Garage. A Classic Car Warranty is Available for Purchase from a 3rd Party. Please speak to our Sales Associate or Company Representative for more information. Our team is working and available anytime by Phone or Text for your convenience at 407-559-7759. Thank you for your interest!