We at Gateway Classic Cars of Tampa are excited to present to you
this awesome 1979 Ford Mustang Pace Car. The Indianapolis 500 is
one of the most famous races in the world. On May 27th 1979 the
Ford Mustang set the pace for this intense race that would become a
Rick Mears victory. This car is a special edition that celebrates
the Ford Mustang Pace Car. The Ford Mustang was chosen as the
Official Pace Car of the 1979 Indianapolis 500. Ford commemorated
this event with a mid-year "Indy 500" Pace Car version (10,478
produced). All were finished in two-tone pewter and black with
orange and red graphics. The front end featured a unique front air
dam with fog lights, and a full-length cowl type hood scoop, while
the rear end got the new for 1979 rear spoiler (all of these
additions carried over to both the 1980 and 1981 Cobra). The black
interior featured Recaro seats with patterned black and white
inserts. Available were the 2.3 L (140 cu in) four-cylinder Turbo
with mandatory four-speed manual transmission or the 4.95 L (302 cu
in) V8 with either an overdrive 4-speed manual or three-speed
automatic transmission. The production cars included a sunroof.
However, the three actual pace cars were fitted with a T-top by
Cars & Concepts of Brighton, MI. The removable panel roof option
would not become an available option until the 1981 model year.
This Mustang is fitted with a 5.0L 302 cubic inch V8 with a 4-speed
manual transmission. The current owner is the 2nd owner and was
brought from his best friend that drove it in high school and then
stored it. It currently has only 85k miles on its numbers matching
engine and transmission. Many upgrades have been done to keep this
car running top notch. However, the original parts that were
swapped out, still come with the car. The factory wheels were
changed to a black Cobra wheels but originals are still included as
well. Some of the upgrades include the clutch, bushings in the
front end, Hotchkins control arms, A/C expansion block and dryer
R-12, all of the interior has been redone, power brakes complete
system, rack and steering, axels an bearings, and even the power
steering pump has been changed. Other upgrades like the battery,
radiator, water pump, coil, and original 2 Barrel Carburetor have
all been redone or changed. This car comes with the original
receipt files for all of the work that has been completed. Along
with the Cobra wheels, the curb appeal of this car comes from it
being lowered in the front and rear. Do not let this sharp Mustang
pass you by! To see 100+ HD pictures and videos of this 1979 Ford
Pace Car, please visit GatewayClassicCars.com. For more information
or to schedule an appointment to view this vehicle in person,
please call the Tampa showroom at (813)645-6200 or email us
directly at
[email protected].