How much did a 1979 Mustang cost new?
The 1979 Ford Mustang marked a significant turning point in the history of this iconic American car. As the first model year of the third generation, it introduced a new design and a range of engine options that appealed to a broad audience. In this article, we will explore how much a 1979 Mustang cost when it was new and what factors influenced its pricing.
Base Price of the 1979 Mustang
When the 1979 Ford Mustang was released, the base price for the model started at approximately $5,000. This price varied depending on the specific model and options chosen by the buyer. The Mustang was available in several trims, including the base model, the Mustang II, and the sporty Cobra version, each with different features and price points.
Factors Influencing the Price
Several factors contributed to the pricing of the 1979 Mustang:
- Engine Options: The Mustang offered a variety of engines, including a 2.3-liter four-cylinder and a 5.0-liter V8. The choice of engine significantly impacted the overall cost.
- Trim Levels: Different trims came with varying levels of features and performance, which also affected the price. For example, the Cobra model was priced higher due to its enhanced performance features.
- Market Demand: The late 1970s saw a shift in consumer preferences towards more fuel-efficient vehicles, which influenced the Mustang's design and pricing strategy.
- Optional Features: Buyers could customize their Mustangs with various options, such as air conditioning, upgraded audio systems, and special paint colors, which added to the final price.
Conclusion
The 1979 Ford Mustang was not just a car; it was a symbol of American automotive culture. With a starting price of around $5,000, it offered a blend of performance and style that appealed to many drivers. Understanding the pricing of classic cars like the Mustang helps enthusiasts appreciate their value in today's market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many 1979 Mustangs were made?
Production figures
| Notchback | Yearly Total | |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | 213,017 | 369,937 |
| 1980 | 152,540 | 271,322 |
| 1981 | 90,880 | 182,552 |
| 1982 | 51,144 | 130,418 |
How much did a 1973 Mustang cost new?
Mustang Values by Year
| Year / Model / Trim | Base MSRP | Adj. for Inflation |
|---|---|---|
| 1973 Mustang Hardtop | $2,847 | $19,993 |
| 1973 Mustang Fastback | $2,907 | $20,415 |
| 1973 Mustang Convertible | $3,189 | $22,395 |
| 1973 Mustang Grande Hardtop | $3,033 | $21,300 |
How much was a brand new Mustang in 1978?
Mustang Values by Year
| Year / Model / Trim | Base MSRP | Adj. for Inflation |
|---|---|---|
| 1978 Mustang II 2-Door Hardtop Coupe | $4,061 | $19,438 |
| 1978 Mustang II 2+2 3-Door Hardtop | $4,305 | $20,606 |
| 1978 Mustang II Ghia 2-Door Hardtop | $4,479 | $21,439 |
| 1978 Mustang II Mach 1 3- Door Fastback | $4,523 | $21,650 |
What did a 1979 Mustang cost new?
Fox Body Generation (1979-1993)
The top-of-the-line Mustang Ghia three-door sedan would have cost you $5,216 in 1979, or $16,327 today.
Why are old mustangs so expensive?
As time passes, the number of original units decreases due to accidents or regular wear. The rarer the Mustang, the more it costs. High demand and dwindling availability cause prices to rise.
Do Mustangs lose value quickly?
A 2021 Ford Mustang has depreciated $10,644 or 35% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $19,650 and trade-in value of $18,098. The 2021 Ford Mustang is in the 25-75% percentile for depreciation among all 2021 Coupes.
How much is a 1979 Mustang worth?
The value of a 1979 Ford Mustang can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $12,900 for a 1979 Ford Mustang in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1979 Ford Mustang at auction over the last three years was $53,900.
What is the best year for a Mustang?
Some of the most reliable Ford Mustang models appear in the 5th generation, spanning from 2005 to 2014. This generation is widely regarded as one of the most reliable for Ford Mustangs. It provides several engine choices, including the well-liked 4.0L V6 and 4.6L V8 models.
How much was a Mustang GT in 1984?
Mustang GT MSRP by Year
| Year / Model / Trim | Base MSRP | Adj. for Inflation |
|---|---|---|
| 1984 Mustang GT Turbo 2-Door Sedan | $9,762 | $29,921 |
| 1984 Mustang GT Turbo 2-Door Convertible | $13,245 | $40,597 |
| 1984 Mustang GT 3-Door Sedan | N/A | N/A |
| 1985 Mustang GT 2-Door Convertible | $13,585 | $40,218 |
How much did a 1972 Mustang cost new?
Prices dropped slightly with the Hardtop listing from $2,729, the Fastback at $2,786, Convertible at $3,015, Grande Hardtop at 2915 and Mach 1 at $3,053. Horsepower was now calculated in a SAE “net” form, rather than at the crank, and so figures plunged.
