Greetings from the Dark Side

Hi all.

I'm currently running a '69 Charger R/T 440. I've mostly been into Mopars and
am just starting to get into Mustangs.

I'm looking to buy a '71-'73 Mach 1 (351 4 barrel). I think this era was really unique in Mustang history (I know not everyone shares that opinion). And for me few muscle cars of the time personify '70s styling quite the same way.

Anyway, my budget is 20k-30k. I'm not looking for a project. I want to use it as a daily driver in the summer. Based on what I've seen so long as you steer clear of the #s matching Boss and Cobra Jets this seems very doable. A 4-Speed would be a plus.

What are some of the things about '71 - '73 Mustangs I should be careful about
when shopping for one?

Does my goal of having a really nicely done car from that era mesh what I'm willing to spend?

Would you say parts are cheaper and easy to find, especially compared to Mopars?

And lastly, I'm used to a 440. This would pretty much blow away a 351, I think (though the Charger weighs almost 2 tons). How does the 4 barrel 351 perform in this car?

Thanks!

Thanks guys, this is all very helpful.

Couple questions, I notice sometimes the front bumper is chromed and sometimes painted. Were both options?

Also, the stripes and lettering -- were they factory paint or decals?

And lastly, louvers on the rear "moon roof" look really great to me, but don't seem common. Are they factory correct or an add on?

thanks!

Something else about the '71-'73s that strikes me is that I think it really mucks things up when you deviate from the stock wheel/tire combo. I've seen pics where people have straightened it out with taller tires on the back, but you just lose that cool low slung, set back look. It kind of takes a way from the long nose.

Am I off here?

As for getting dumped on for owning '71-'73s, I guess you can always crap on the Mustang II people.