The Boss Mustang, a high-performance variant of the iconic Ford Mustang, was produced in three distinct series between 1969 and 1971. While the 1969-1970 models, equipped with powerful 302 and 429 engines, are often considered the most desirable, the 1971 Boss 351 offers a unique blend of performance and practicality.
Despite its lower market value compared to its predecessors, a well-documented original 1971 Boss 351 remains a sought-after collectible. Unlike the track-focused 302 and 429 Bosses, designed for Trans Am and NASCAR racing, respectively, the 1971 Boss 351 was more suited for street driving.
Its specially tuned 351 Cleveland engine, paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a 3.91 Traction-Lok rear axle, delivered impressive performance without sacrificing comfort or handling. The Boss 351’s robust engine and refined suspension made it a more enjoyable and capable driving experience than its predecessors.
The Boss 351’s interior featured a unique black-and-white color scheme, Recaro bucket seats, and a wood-grain steering wheel. These enhancements contributed to the car’s upscale and sporty character. While the Boss 351 was not as extreme as the 302 and 429 Bosses, it offered a more balanced and refined driving experience that appealed to a wider range of enthusiasts.
The 1971 Ford Mustang, including the Boss 351, was a larger and more versatile vehicle than its predecessor. Designed to accommodate a wider range of engines, from the small 250-cubic-inch Six to the powerful 429-cube Cobra Jet, the restyled pony featured a spacious engine bay that could handle even the largest powerplants without modification. This was a significant improvement over the Boss 429, which required a custom engine bay due to its semi-hemispherical heads.
While the 1971 Boss Mustang was not specifically designed for racing, it was undeniably capable of high-performance driving. Ford offered optional upgrades, such as oil-cooling hardware and high-performance valvetrain components, to further enhance the Boss 351’s performance. The car’s standard equipment was already impressive, however, and many enthusiasts found it to be more than enough for their needs.
One such example is the survivor featured in this article. A numbers-matching Boss 351 with a factory-applied livery and a low mileage of 48,746, this car has been meticulously cared for over its 53-year lifespan. Originally owned by a Ford executive and later by a private buyer, the car has spent most of its life in the hands of one owner. Its pristine condition and desirable specifications make it a highly sought-after collectible.
The 1971 Ford Mustang Boss 351, a rare and sought-after muscle car, has been making headlines recently due to its high asking price and subsequent sale. This particular vehicle, a survivor with a functional Dual Ram Induction hood, has been listed for sale several times in the past few years, each time commanding a higher price.
Matt Taylor, owner of American Mustangs, is the current owner and is seeking to profit from the car’s increasing value. While the seller claims to have no immediate need to sell, he is open to offers and is not likely to hold onto the car for long.
The Boss 351, along with its siblings the Boss 302 and Boss 429, are highly collectible due to their rarity and performance. The Boss 351, in particular, is known for its powerful 351 cubic inch V8 engine and distinctive styling. With fewer than 1,806 units produced in 1971, the Boss 351 is a true automotive gem that continues to appreciate.
