1973 Ford Mustang Convertible. Sept 08

And so on. I'm sure a lot of you know the rest of the lyrics far, far better than I do! However, in drawing parallels between "My Way" and this month's feature car, I'm not thinking of 'Old Blue Eyes', (who actually did own a Mustang convertible) but one of the more underrated 'singers' of the old classic in the form of the Sid Vicious (who never owned a Mustang convertible).

Before you think I've lost it with that comparo, consider this:
In 1973, the year of our feature car, the "end" was near for the first generation Mustang, while in late '78, when be belted out his version of My Way, Sid was living on borrowed time, too.
It's a bit sad, really. End of an era and all that, but in bowing out when they did, both Sid and the 'Stang have attained a somewhat mythic status, ensuring their appeal has endured long beyond their passing.
One could also argue that what was to follow was hardly a match for the original, either. For 'Stangs, we got the Mustang II. For music, we got Culture Club and Bow Wow Wow - hmmmm, generational change does have a bit to answer for, based on that analysis!

By 1973, Ford's ponycar was longer, wider and over half a ton heavier than a similarly-equipped 1965 model - more Clydesdale than Mustang, and moving closer to Thunderbird territory with each extra pound and added trinket. The energy crisis of that year helped seal the fate of the big Mustangs.
Similarly, by 1979, even Sid Vicious closest friends knew it was a matter of 'when' rather than 'if' he'd meet an early demise.

Convertible sales started to slide in the early years of the disco decade, too, so the 1973 model would also be the last Mustang to offer a softop for more than a decade.
While sales did experience a slight upsurge back in 1973, the end-of-the-line factor for both the body-style and softop doesn't make the '73 Mustang more collectable today. 1965 - '69 models are still the overwhelming preference of buyers. Conversely, that means these vehicles can usually be snapped up for reasonable money, like what's being asked for our feature car.

Where this Mustang really does score points is in the engine department. The 351ci 4V Cleveland factory-fitted to our feature car was the biggest available for '73, following the removal of the big 429 CobraJet V8s from the options list two years earlier.
The dual exit chrome exhausts and Magnum 500 wheels add to the appeal of the exterior, as does the new white power top (with glass back window), that also complements the excellent condition of the white paint and colour-matched endura front bumper.
Interior is standard aqua vinyl that's in very good overall condition. T-bar auto and air conditioning has been factory-fitted, while a gauge pod and clock have been added to the centre console. Indicated mileage is only 78,000 miles.

If Sid Vicious was around today, I reckon he'd identify with this car - it's a bit different, not hugely popular and, as far as 'Stangs go, is definitely non-conformist.
So there you have it - a Mustang that comes well equipped with options - and the punk rock seal of approval!Mike Ryan