1971 Mustang To 1973 Mustang Pictures

The beginning of the end for big body Ford Mustang muscle car era. This was the last generation of big body Ford Mustang muscle cars produced before the fuel crisis and emission requirements hit in the early 1970's. Built from the larger Fairmont/Torino platform, the Mustang became heavier and grew an additional three inches in length.

Ford offered the same engine as the previous generation but as smog and fuel efficiency restrictions came into play, the V8 engines lost horsepower in 1971 and again in 1972. New bumper requirements in '193 added weight--up to about 3800 lbs. In 1972 Ford began using Net HP ratings instead of Gross. The Boss 351 was one of Ford's best small-block production engines with 1,700 in total produced.