The title of this article is an advertising hook used in the 1978 Ford Mustang sales brochure which further states, "The Mustang II 3-door 2 + 2 make getting away from it all a snap. The rear liftgate opens wide and the rear seats fold down to easily store luggage, skis, fishing gear, golf clubs, you name it. In all, there's a big 22.8 cu. ft. of carrying space. That's impressive. So, too, is the fact that four passengers can get away in style."
           It's interesting to note that after previously referring to the sloped-roof design as SportsRoof, the description had once again come full circle to the 2 + 2 moniker. No doubt this move was carefully tied in with efforts to bring Mustang back to its grass-roots beginning in not only size and sportiness, but also name recognition.
           One easily recognized name within the Mustang lineup is Mach 1. Here's the way the 1978 Mach 1 was described: "If you're the type that wants extra power and performance, then Mach 1 is your answer. A standard 2.8 litre 2V V-6 engine makes Mach 1 a most spirited performer. Spirited for quicker pickup and greater passing ease. Spirited for that great getaway. And Mach 1 is just as easy on the eyes as it is on the road. That's because the Mach 1 has raised white letter steel-belted radials, 4-speed manual transmission, dual sport mirrors, black lower bodyside/back panel/tape treatment, four White-painted style steel wheels with trim rings, bright lower body side molding, and Mach 1 insignia...all standard. ...the Mach 1 is a most powerful and exhilarating way to go."
           By the time the 1973 Mustang went to market, overall sales of the pony car had dropped dramatically from just under 681,000 during its first 18 months of production to just over 125,000 at the end of the 1972 model year. Ford executives watched sales drop as the car grew. It had ultimately become so large that many former Mustang loverss were complaining to Ford that the car no longer resembled the fresh, sport vehicle that they had hurried out to buy. Downsizing was a necessity if the Ford Mustang was to survive.
           The introduction of the Mustang II couldn't have happened at a better time. Fuel embargoes and rising gas prices had become a glaring reality. Government regulations for the automakers had become much stricter and insurance rates were on the increase. Returning to a Mustang that more closely resembled the size of the original version and also got very good gass mileage was a hit with nearyl 400,000 consumers in 1974.
           One of those consumers was Lori (soon-to-be) Johnson. In fact she was still driving the 1974 Mach 1 in January 1978 when high school sweetheart Jeff encouraged her to take a look at a new 1978 Mach 1 at a local Ford dealership. The gleaming black beauty immediately grabbed Lori's attention. A deal was quickly made for its purchase.
           Later that same year Jeff and Lori became husband and wife (Lori points out that this was one way for Jeff to get the car) and used the pony as their family vehicle until February 1990 when a Bronco was purchased. Since then the 2 + 2 has been used for pleasure only.
           As the show circuit began to beckon, Lori and Jeff decided to revitalize this member of the family that has served them so well. Despite logging nearly 152,000 miles, the original 302 V8 ran strong and needed notjing more than a thorough cleaning and detailing which took place during the winter of 1992. Backed with a four-speed transmission, the 302 power plant provided respectable performance at a time when performance seemed a thing of the past. The standard Mach 1 2.8 V6 fit nicely in the compact engine bay, but in order to fit the larger 302 certain factory modifications had to be made such as a revised radiator support, and a 1/2-inch elevation of the hood line.
           Variable ratio rack and pinion steering and power front disc brakes help keep a rein on the last-year Mach 1.
           Options for the black all vinyl interior shown here include rear window defogger, console with coin tray, and turn signal mounted washer/wiper control. Since the car was originallly purchased sans radio, Lori is searching for a correct factory 8-track tape player. New seats covers and carpet give the cockpit a showroom-fresh appearance.
           One of the most desirable options on this Mach 1 is the T-Roof which was supplied to Ford by the American Sunroof Corporation. Owner installed Keystone wheels shod with BFGoodrich T/A raidals add to the overall performance image.
           The classes for 1974-78 Mustang IIs generally remains small although interest in this era is growing. Despite the small numbers it is not unusual to find a Mustang II proudly displayed by the original owner. And despite these owners' awareness that the Mustang IIs are generally looked-down-upon by a large portion of the hobby, they know that these ponies provide a vital link to the attractive, performance-oriented models we enjoy today.
           Here's how the dealer brochure describes the Mustang II:
           "The Mustang II Legend! There once was a car that was the best seller in its class. And you know what? It still is. It's called Mustang II. And it has been a leader since the day it was born. Why? Mustang IIs 2.3 litre 2V overhead cam, 4-cylinder engine is a major factor. We like to think of it as our "perfect blend." It gives excellent performance. Quick easy starts. Perky acceleration when you really need it. Yet it still provides very good EPA fuel economy at a time when it's so essential.
           Noteworthy, too, are the many choices. Ghia, 2 + 2, Mach 1, Cobra II, our first King Cobra, and basic Mustang II. Then there is Mustang II's rear bucket seat design for 4-passenger comfort. And the many interior selections. Featuring names like Fresno, Wilshire, and Stirling for a look and feel you won't want to miss. Mustang II for '78. It has it all. Performance. Economy. Choice. Innovation. Comfort. No wonder Mustang II is already a legend in its own time."