In September 1970, the 1971 Mustang was given the go-ahead by Ford's new president, Semon "Bunkie" Knudsen who had formerly worked for General Motors. To house Ford's big block 429 cu in (7.0 L) V8 engine, the Mustang was increased in size by three inches in width.
The three body styles it was offered in were: Hardtop (in base or Grande), Sportsroof (in base or Mach 1) and convertible (no unique trim package).
Hardtop
The new 1971 hardtop featured a prominent "tunnelback" rear window design, while the Grande trim included a vinyl roof and badges on the C-pillars. The Spring Special edition was on sale between March and May 1971 and added Mach 1 features such as side stripes, two-tone paint, urethane bumper and honeycomb grille with sportlamps.
Sportsroof
Sportsroofs were available in base versions or as Mach 1s and Boss 351 models. Mach 1s provided elements such as choice of two-tone paint, hockey-stick stripes, functional NACA hood scoop, color-keyed side mirrors and sports/performance options. All Mach 1s came with urethane front bumpers, alternate grille and amber sportlights.
The Boss 351s shared the same features as Mach 1s, but also included a larger black-out hood, front and rear spoilers, dual exhaust with no rear valance cutouts, plus chrome bumpers and sportlamp grille.
Convertible
The convertible version of the Mustang was equipped with a power top, a glass rear window, and available until 1973. Its first year of introduction included no unique exterior visual package.
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