American Muscle 1:18 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1, Metallic Blue

This model is part of a large collection from an estate sale

There is some shelf wear on the box

The Ford Mustang Mach 1 is a performance-oriented option package of the Ford Mustang, originally introduced by Ford in August 1968 as a package for the 1969 model year. The Mach 1 title adorned performance oriented Mustang offerings until the original retirement of the moniker in 1978, returning briefly in 2003,2004 and most recently 2021.

As part of a Ford heritage program, the Mach 1 package returned in 2003 as a high performance version of the New Edge platform. Visual connections to the 1969 model were integrated into the design to pay homage to the original. This generation of the Mach 1 was discontinued after the 2004 model year, with the introduction of the fifth generation Mustang.

Ford first used the name "Mach 1" in its 1969 display of a concept called the "Levacar Mach I" at the Ford Rotunda. This concept vehicle used a cushion of air as propulsion on a circular dais.

1969 was the benchmark year for Ford Mustang in its proliferation of performance names and engines. No fewer than six factory performance Mustang models were available (GT, Boss 302, Boss 429, Shelby GT350, Shelby GT500 and the Mach 1). Additionally, seven variations of V-8s were available in the '69–'73 models; most of these also available in the new Mach 1.

Due to the Mach 1's success, the GT model was discontinued after 1969 following poor sales of 5,396 units versus the 72,458 sales for the Mach 1. The Mustang would not wear the "GT" badge again until 1982.

The Mach 1 package was only available in the "SportsRoof" fastback body style (previously known as the 'fastback'); never on the hardtop or convertible. Many resto-mod visual conversions have since been performed by owners and enthusiasts, but are not Mach 1's by VIN code.

All first generation Mach 1's are distinguished by the body style code 63C on the door data plate.

The Mach 1 started with a V8-powered SportsRoof body and added numerous visual and performance enhancing items such as matte black hood treatment with hood pins, hood scoop (including optional Shaker scoop), competition suspension, chrome pop-open gas cap, revised wheels with Goodyear Polyglas tires, chrome exhaust tips (except 351W 2V), deluxe interior, livery and dealer optional chin spoiler, rear deck spoiler, and rear window louvers (SportSlats).