Feb 9, 2018 • Uncategorized •

This is the stuff the Barn Find dream is made of. The discovery of American Muscle royalty is one thing. But finding the very first of a model – especially the very first 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 with the optional Super Cobra Jet drag pack – is the stuff of legends. The story is detailed here on MSN, with thanks to our reader Michael.

The Mach 1’s standard issue power was the 351 cu in (5.8 L). The next jump up was the 390 cu in (6.4 L). If the 390 wasn’t enough, you could make the leap to a Cobra Jet – a 428 cu in (7.0 L) beast 4V. If you wanted extra insanity, then the “drag pack” was your option. This bought you a Super Cobra Jet – a modified 428 Cobra with more durable reciprocating assembly parts designed to survive the RPM requirements for drag racing.

Things like the cranks, rods, pistons, wrist pins, flywheel and more were “cranked up”, and required either the 3:91:1 or the 4:30:1 rear end gear ratios. This beast has the 4:30:1. Found originally on Craigslist, Mike (a Maryland Mach 1 enthusiast) knew this restoration had two key realities. First, it could be an amazing and historical find, and second, it was going to be a lot of work. With no engine, no transmission, mostly disassembled, and needing extensive bodywork – Mike had to take a night to think about the purchase.

Deciding to go ahead, Mike had Marti Auto do research into the car’s history (Marti is a Ford database service) – and was shocked to discover this is “the first Mustang ordered with a 428 Super Cobra Jet engine with a 4.30 Traction-Lok Rear Axle.” Mike is officially living the Barn Find dream then! He’s now the proud owner of the first Super Cobra Jet 4:30 – ever.