In 1969 Ford introduced the SportsRoof design as one of five all-new Mustangs. The SportsRoof was designated as the only choice if you wanted the Mach 1, and it came complete with sporty rear deck spoiler, ventless side glass, new grille and quad headlights. The new Mustang Mach 1was igniting and power-primed to take on a new generation of fun.

You could choose from five hot V-8 engines – from two new 351-cid units, a 390-cid and two different 428 Cobra Jet engines that are readily identified by the prominent hood scoop. Mach 1 carried the GT-type equipment like dual exhaust, competition shocks, chromed styled steel wheels, competition stabilizer bar, high back bucket seats, racing mirrors, rim-blow steering wheel, clock, console, teak-toned woodgrain details on the dash, door panels and console, bright floor pedal pads, low-gloss black hood and cowl paint, pin-type hood lock latches and reflective exterior striping.

Factory advertisements beckoned that “CJ 428 is the new engine to reckon with in the performance world…try supermuscle. 428 cubic inches of bold.” This already desirable Ford Mustang Mach 1 is made all the more special by running with the acclaimed Q-code 428-cid, 335-hp V-8 with a four-barrel carburetor and, in this case, paired to a four-speed manual transmission and Traction-Lok differential; it is stated the Mach 1 runs with its correct and original drivetrain. The Mach 1 is “100-percent restored to original specifications” with no expenses spared and looks fantastic in its Candyapple Red exterior with Red interior. The reflective Mach 1 side stripes are gold with white lettering and add to the sportiness that Ford intended and gives fair warning to those who might want to attempt to beat it to the next stoplight.

As with all musclecar manufacturers of the era, in regards to easing a prospective buyer’s insurance costs, the horsepower numbers are quite restrained in official releases. The 335-hp figure for this powerplant is almost certainly on the low side as subsequent testing in the ensuing years shows it closer to the 400 horsepower figure.

The Mustang Mach 1 428 CJ has been meticulously restored on a rotisserie in a nut-and-bolt fashion, and it is stated to be in “showroom condition” with immaculate paint, solid and detailed undercarriage with factory-type red oxide primer, properly painted and marked 9-inch rear end, brand new gas tank, new correct dual exhaust system, freshly chromed factory styled steel wheels, new BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires, rear window Sport Slats, low-placed rear wing, center console, AM radio, driver’s side mirror remote, power steering, power brakes and the standard items for this model mentioned above.

Reliable records indicate that nearly 300,000 total Mustangs were produced in 1969; of those 72,458 were the Mach 1 variety – only 13,261 Mustangs were powered by this special Q-code powerplant, with far fewer being found in the engine bay of the Mach 1. A framed Deluxe Marti Report accompanies the car, as does its build sheet.

Motor Trend magazine stated that the “Mach 1 lines are smooth and supple, showing a notable lack of ostentation. Absence of fake bolt-on equipment is commendable. Spoiler, striping and hoodscoop all help enhance good looks.” They also added that “The Mustang Mach 1 probably has the most comfortable, best contoured seats of any American car today…you feel surrounded and protected on all sides.” With a machine such as this at your disposal, only those interested in street-racing your big-block Mach 1 428 CJ will need protecting.