1970 Mustang:
This was a year of minimal changes for the Mustang. The only noticeable addition to the 1970 model Mustang was the addition of a ram air "Shaker" hood scoop, which was available on Mustangs equipped with a 351-cubic inch engine.
1971 Mustang:
Touted as the biggest Mustang ever, the 1971 model year was almost a foot longer than previous Mustangs, and was also much heavier in comparison. It’s said this Mustang weighed 600 pounds more than its predecessor. Several special edition Mustangs, featured in the previous two model years, were removed from the ’71 lineup. This included the Boss 302, the Boss 429, the Shelby GT350 and GT500. The Mach 1, however, remained available in various powertrain configurations.
1972 Mustang:
There were no noticeable changes to the body style of the Mustang in 1972. The highlight was the release of the Sprint model Mustang which featured red, white, and blue exterior paint-and-tape styling with matching interior options. Ford launched an ad campaign that used slogans such as, “Put a little Sprint in your life.” Sprint styling was also available on the Ford Pinto and the Maverick.
1973 Mustang:
In 1973, a shortage of fuel became a nationwide concern. Consumers wanted fuel efficient vehicles that were cheap to insure and capable of passing newly introduced emissions standards. As a result, the muscle car era came to an end. This meant Mustang designers would have to go back to the drawing board to create an economical car with consumer appeal. This was the last year the Mustang was built on the original Falcon-platform. The convertible model was also discontinued in ‘73. This marked the end of the first generation Mustang.
Generation and Model Year Source: Ford Motor Company
Next: Second Generation (1974-1978)
