1969 Ford Mustang

In 1969, high-performance models were clearly the focus at Ford. To showcase them, the manufacturer set up so-called Performance Corners at its dealerships. Three vehicles were the focus there: the Boss 429 for NASCAR, the Boss 302 for the Trans-Am series, and the 428 Cobra Jet, consistently designed for maximum acceleration on the drag strip.

The absolute powerhouse of the time was the 428 Mach 1 in the R-Code variant with a functioning air intake. Car Life described it as the most powerful 4-seater ever tested. It completed the quarter mile in just 13.9 seconds. The Shelby models lost much of their significance in the same year, as the new Cobra Jet in the GT500 offered the same engine and almost identical performance. 

The debut of the Mach 1 sparked enormous enthusiasm – it became the epitome of the muscle car and made a clear statement on Ford's part. Typical racing features such as the matte black hood to protect against glare and the distinctive hood latches with cables made this clear.

The engine range was also expanded: new was a 351 cid engine with twin carburetors. Other options included the 351 with quad carburetors, the 390 GT Big Block with 320 hp, and the 428 Cobra Jet, which was also available with the legendary “Shaker” air intake.

The Boss models embodied two different sports car philosophies:
The Boss 302 was developed as an agile small-block sports car with special suspension, wide tires, and 290 hp for the Trans-Am series. Car & Driver attested that it had “the best road holding of any US car” – it set new standards for Ford.
The Boss 429, on the other hand, was an uncompromising big block built for NASCAR. With lowered suspension, 15-inch Magnum 500 rims, and a whopping 375 hp, it was a real wild child and a technical milestone.

As a stylish contrast, the Grande appeared in the luxury segment in 1969. As a pure hardtop model, it offered the highest level of comfort with spoke wheel caps, elegant interior fittings, and a faux leather-covered roof. It thus represented the spirit of the times and the growing trend toward luxury pony cars.