For sale: 1973 GTO Hardtop Coupe Gen 1 Galant Mitsubishi
Specifications
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Confirming your serial number is an Option 54 car:
The serial number is essential in determining whether a car is a genuine ESP optioned vehicle. Despite certain parts being rare, most features of the XD ESP can be replicated, and therefore making a chassis number enquiry with Ford should be a priority for any prudent purchaser.
As noted in the introduction, only the original Ford order sheet will confirm whether a particular vehicle was ordered with the ESP option (option 54). In the images we have included an example of the type of letter Ford can provide you with, which will confirm 'Option 54 - European Sports Pack'. As such, it is necessary to contact Ford to receive this confirmation. When enquiring, you will need to quote the 5-digit serial number and possibly the vehicle’s Sido number. You may also be required to provide proof of ownership (obviously, you will have to have the assistance of the seller if you’re a prospective purchaser).
The serial number is a 5-digit number unique to each vehicle, and will be followed by either a “C” (6-cylinder) or a “K” (8-cylinder).
Serial number location:
The serial number is located in 3 positions (see images for a better description):
1. On the vehicle’s data plate:
Located on the passenger side inner mudguard, there will be two data plates (one for vehicle options, and one for ADR compliance). Both will contain the serial number, however, it can be easily viewed under the title “Serial Number” in the foremost plate.
2. Stamped into the body:
The serial number as noted on the vehicle’s data plates should also be stamped into the metal of the passenger side engine bay, into the top of the inner passenger side mudguard (between the suspension strut and mudguard edge).
3. Stamped into the vehicle’s engine:
Ford also applied the chassis number to the engine, which will allow you to confirm whether the car is “matching numbers”. The location of the engine number will depend on which engine is fitted (6-cylinder or V8). This is detailed further in section 5 of this guide.
Vehicle location
New Zealand , Canterbury , Christchurch City
This 1973 Mitsubishi GTO was advertised on Trademe NZ, asking $30,000 NZD in August 2022. This example, the seller noted, was fitted with a 12a Rotary engine. I'd be very tempted to return it to original. Very few details were given by the seller, but it looks like a worthwhile project to save.. Love finding these classic hardtops like this - so much potential..
Check out the other GTOs on the register below, and see the original advertisement here.