The original pony car that ignited an entirely new segment of the American automotive market, the Mustang was introduced in April 1964 by Ford Motor Company as a stylish, affordable performance car aimed squarely at a younger generation of buyers. Its long-hood/short-deck proportions, wide range of engines, and extensive personalization options made it an instant cultural icon. By 1973, the Mustang had evolved into its most refined and luxurious form of the first-generation series (1964"1973), blending performance with comfort and safety updates required of the era. The 1973 model year would mark the final chapter of this original body style before the introduction of the smaller Mustang II, making these last-of-the-line convertibles particularly desirable among collectors today.
Presented here is a beautifully preserved 1973 Ford Mustang Convertible finished in factory Light Yellow Gold over a White Sebring/Corinthian Vinyl interior, complemented by a matching white power convertible top. This example carries a uniquely documented history that begins locally, having been sold new on April 6, 1973 by Tom Casavely Ford in St. Louis. The car was purchased by Richard Abbott as a gift for his significant other, Florence Nolte, who cherished it as a special weekend cruiser for more than a decade. She famously declined multiple offers to purchase the car before ultimately parting with it in April 1985.
Its next caretaker would be none other than Missouri Governor John Ashcroft, who acquired the Mustang showing just 49,041 miles. The car subsequently resided at the Governor's Mansion in Jefferson City, where it was carefully maintained. Registration records and service documentation from his ownership accompany the vehicle today, underscoring its well-preserved provenance. Governor Ashcroft retained the Mustang until 2006, after which it passed through a small circle of collectors.
For much of the period spanning 2007 through approximately 2025, the car was displayed as part of the extensive collection of Evergreen Historic Automobiles in partnership with Passport Transportation, further contributing to its carefully preserved condition. The odometer now reads just 68,954 miles.
This Mustang is powered by its desirable H-code 351ci V8 engine paired with an FMX Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission, offering smooth, effortless performance ideal for open-air touring. Factory and period features include:
SelectAire air conditioning
Power steering
Power front disc brakes
Power-operated white convertible top with glass backlite rear window
Firestone Wide Oval G70-14 raised white-letter tires with deluxe wheel covers
Appearance Protection Group (body side moldings and bumper guards with rubber inserts)
Color-keyed sport mirrors with remote driver-side adjustment
Tinted glass throughout
Upgraded Panasonic AM/FM/8-track radio
Upon arrival at St. Louis Car Museum, the Mustang received a comprehensive round of servicing to ensure reliable enjoyment for its next steward. Work includes:
New master cylinder, front brake calipers, pads, and hoses with fresh DOT 5 brake fluid
Fully rebuilt air-conditioning system (compressor, condenser, receiver/dryer, and filter dryer)
Transmission service with new filter, selector seal, and pan gasket
Rebuilt carburetor
Re-cored radiator, new water pump, thermostat, hoses, and heater control valve
Renewed valve cover gaskets and all drive belts
Fresh spark plugs, wires, distributor cap, and rotor
New engine mounts and additional ancillary servicing
The result is a turn-key convertible that retains its originality while being fully prepared for comfortable summer cruising. Accompanying the sale is an exceptional collection of original materials, including:
Original 1973 sales and loan documentation
Factory window sticker
Buck plate
Warranty owner card
Extended service contract paperwork
Registration receipt history
Deluxe Marti Auto Works report
As one of the final expressions of the original Mustang design, combined with its highly documented ownership, political connection, and careful long-term preservation, this 1973 Mustang Convertible represents a rare opportunity to acquire a locally significant and historically interesting example of Ford's legendary pony car. It stands today as both a nostalgic time capsule and a ready-to-enjoy classic for top-down motoring.
