by Rare Ford Mustang Boss 429 sold for a record amount
The Ford Mustang Boss 429 is one of the most expensive “homologation” cars ever created for racing. Surprisingly, Ford never actually used it in competitions.
In the late 1960s, Ford competed with Chrysler for dominance in NASCAR. To counter Chrysler’s legendary 426 Hemi engine, Ford developed its own 429 cubic inch (7.0-liter) V8. NASCAR rules required the engine to be available in a production car, so it was installed in the Mustang—even though it didn’t fit in the standard engine bay.
Kar Kraft modified the Mustang: widened the engine compartment, relocated the shock towers, and moved the battery to the trunk for better weight distribution.
Uniqueness and Collectible Value
The Boss 429 looked relatively understated, except for its massive hood and subtle graphics. However, the example in Calypso Coral with a white interior (only 13 were made) stands out. This model is not only rare but also has a fascinating history, making it highly collectible.
The recent sale for $627,000 far exceeded expert estimates of $386,000. For that price, one could have bought a first-generation Ford GT or two new Mustang GTDs. For comparison, another homologation model, the Boss 302, costs around $200,000—three times less.
The price of the Boss 429 continues to rise due to its limited production and historical significance. Even decades later, these cars remain symbols of an era when manufacturers pushed technical boundaries to win races.
