The 1979 Ford Mustang Pace Car is a unique piece of automotive history, commemorating the Mustang’s selection as the official pace car for the 63rd Indianapolis 500. For enthusiasts and collectors, the value of these vehicles often lies in their distinctive and model-specific components. If you’re assessing a 1979 Mustang Pace Car, understanding the significance and identifying the key “79 Mustang Pace Car Parts” is crucial for valuation and restoration.
What exactly sets a 1979 Mustang Pace Car apart and makes its parts desirable? Beyond the limited production numbers, these Mustangs boasted a range of aesthetic and trim enhancements not found on standard models. These unique features are what collectors and restorers specifically seek when working with or evaluating these special edition vehicles.
Key 1979 Mustang Pace Car Parts to Identify:
- Pace Car Hood: The distinctive hood is a primary identifier, often featuring unique striping or badging that differentiates it from standard Mustang hoods of that year.
- Front Bumper Cover & Fog Lights: The front fascia of the Pace Car typically includes a unique bumper cover. Crucially, integrated fog lights and a specific fog light bar are highly sought-after components exclusive to this model.
- Rear Hatch Spoiler: A special rear spoiler design was often incorporated, contributing to the Pace Car’s sporty and aerodynamic appearance. This spoiler is another visually distinct “79 mustang pace car part”.
- TRX Rims: The TRX wheel and tire system was a performance-oriented feature of the era, and if a Pace Car retains its original TRX rims, it adds significantly to its value and authenticity. These wheels are now hard to source, making them valuable “79 mustang pace car parts”.
- Interior Sunroof Liner: For Pace Cars equipped with a sunroof, a unique black plastic sunroof liner with ventilation slots was installed. This liner was exclusive to the 1979 Pace Car and was not available on other Fox Mustangs, nor could it be purchased as a standalone part from Ford. This makes it a very rare “79 mustang pace car part”.
- Recaro Front Seats: Many 1979 Pace Cars were equipped with distinctive Recaro front seats. These seats, with their unique cloth patterns and sporty bolstering, are a major interior feature and a highly desirable “79 mustang pace car part”.
- Matching Rear Seats: To complement the Recaro fronts, the rear seats were upholstered with matching cloth, creating a cohesive and unique interior aesthetic.
- Glove Box Appliqué with Vents: A specific glove box door appliqué with integrated vents is another subtle but unique interior detail that identifies a true Pace Car.
Condition and its Impact on Parts Value:
While identifying these “79 mustang pace car parts” is essential, their condition dramatically affects the overall value of the car and the individual components. Rust is a primary concern for any Fox-body Mustang, and Pace Cars are no exception. Areas to meticulously inspect for rust include:
- Sunroof Channel: If equipped with a sunroof, the drainage channel is a notorious rust trap. Significant rust in this area can be costly to repair and reduce value.
- Underbody: Check for rust on the floors, strut towers, and frame rails. Rust in these structural areas can severely impact the car’s integrity and the cost of restoration.
- Body Panels: Surface rust is less critical than structural rust, but extensive panel rust still detracts from value and necessitates bodywork.
Interior condition is also important. Sun exposure and age can damage upholstery, particularly the unique Recaro seat fabric. While some wear is expected in unrestored cars, significant damage will require professional restoration, impacting costs.
Finding and Valuing 79 Mustang Pace Car Parts:
For those looking to restore a 1979 Mustang Pace Car or source specific “79 mustang pace car parts”, several online resources can be valuable:
- Online Registries and Forums: Websites and online forums dedicated to Fox-body Mustangs and specifically the 1979 Pace Car can be excellent resources for identifying parts, finding sellers, and connecting with other enthusiasts. Examples include dedicated threads on foureyedpride.com and Facebook groups for 1979 Mustang Pace Car owners. These communities often have members with expertise in these specific vehicles and their parts.
Conclusion:
The allure of the 1979 Mustang Pace Car lies in its limited production and unique features. When evaluating one of these vehicles, or sourcing parts, a keen eye for identifying the specific “79 mustang pace car parts” is paramount. Coupled with a thorough assessment of the car’s condition, particularly regarding rust and wear, you can more accurately determine its value and the resources needed for restoration or preservation. The distinct parts are not just components; they are key elements of this Mustang’s heritage and collectibility.
