Ford’s performance machine, the Boss 302, was a direct competitor to Chevrolet’s Camaro Z/28, as it offered more performance on a reduced-weight chassis. It proved its worth on the track in the SCCA’s Trans-Am racing series, and it was quite popular in the showroom, as it offered customers a vehicle that was just as comfortable on the road as it was on the track. Built to compete with Chevrolet’s Camaro Z/28 in the Sports Car Club of America’s Trans-Am racing series, the Boss 302 was Dearborn’s performance machine, proving that less is more. The Boss 302 included a modified 302-cubic inch V-8 that produced 290 horsepower, in addition to a handling suspension, F60x15 tires, and quicker steering.

In a comparison test in its February 1970 issue, Car & Driver further praised the Boss’ street manners, stating that “it is quiet and exudes quality, very much like an expensive European GT car. The stiff suspension and high shock absorber control give it a very purposeful feel, and because the body does not quiver or rattle when you hit a bump, the overall impression is most satisfying.” According to Car & Driver, the Boss 302 completed the quarter-mile in 14.9 seconds at 93.4 mph, and in Trans-Am tune, the Boss 302 would win the Manufacturer’s Championship for Ford in 1970.

This Boss 302’s Marti report shows that it was first delivered to HP Smith Motors Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska, and that its engine is original to the car. It left the Dearborn, Michigan, plant on 23 March 1970, and the 47,000 miles shown on the odometer are believed to be from new. It was purchased by its current owner in January 2006, and he immediately decided to have Andy Adelson of Detroit, Michigan, fully restore the car. Finished in its attractive original color of Grabber Orange, it was further optioned with Black Clarion Knit and Corinthian vinyl Bucket seats, a 3.91 Trac-Lok axle ratio, four-speed wide-ratio manual transmission, F60X15 Belted tires with white lettering, Shaker hood scoop, center console, power steering, an AM radio, Décor Group, and Magnum 500 Chrome wheels, it is excellent in all regards and would be a superb addition to any Shelby collection.