LOT #1369 – PURPOSE-BUILT PREDATOR: The Iconic Boss 429

January 10, 2020
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Written by independent automotive journalist Roger C. Johnson

This 1969 Boss 429 (Lot #1369), which will be crossing the block with No Reserve, was professionally restored by Kar Kraft Engineering, who gave birth to the Boss 429s in the first place.

It’s rare for a major car manufacturer to create a fantastic new street machine like the Boss 429 Mustang, then do everything it can to build as few of them as possible. Homologation of this power plant for NASCAR was the subject, pure and simple. Otherwise it was a money loser for Ford, according to corporate bean-counters. Still, they needed an edge to compete with Mopar’s HEMI, and the Boss 429 was conceived for just that. So, only 1,358 of them were produced in 1969 and 1970 Mustang bodies. Sure, they weren’t racing Mustangs in NASCAR on the big ovals, it’s just that their pony car was already a great traveling companion for every other hot Ford engine produced. As it turned out, the Boss 429 was a fantastic credibility builder for the brand and a fantasy come true for the rest of us.

The 429 is based on the “385” engine series, which is an evolution of their FE product line and represents Ford’s last big-block design. The 385 received that name thanks to its 3.85-inch stroke utilized in the 460ci version. Its design incorporates thin wall castings and a skirtless block in order to reduce overall weight.

The actual Boss 429 was crafted around a 4.362 bore and a 3.59-inch stroke. Four-bolt main caps, a forged steel crank and forged steel connecting rods set the stage for the crowning achievement ‒ the innovative aluminum head design provided Ford lovers their own HEMI-like combustion chambers, and the increased horsepower that comes with these animals. An aluminum intake manifold with a 735 cfm four-barrel carb stoked the fires. It would probably love an 850 double-pumper. In the meantime, horsepower ratings were advertised at 375, with a wink and a smile.

Lot #1369 is the quintessential example of a super-rare, classic muscle car packing a quantum-leap engine design that is even more dazzling to look at, feel and listen to 50 years into its future. This very one is number KK #1726. In 2013 it was professionally restored by none other than Kar Kraft Engineering, who birthed the Boss 429s in the first place. Any rusty panels were replaced with original sheet metal repurposed from a donor Mustang to protect the Boss’ build quality and heritage.

A 4-speed transmission, power steering and power front disc brakes, along with the heavy-duty suspension package and a 3.91 Traction-Lok differential, are the precise options for optimum performance. Classic Magnum 500 wheels with correct Goodyear Polyglas GT tires present the proper image. A Delux Décor interior includes an 8,000-rpm tach and an AM radio. Finished in Candy Apple Red with a black interior, this machine is an exquisite example of the utmost in collectability.

A Deluxe Marti Report, owner’s card, original Window Stickers, an Eminger letter, the original owner’s manual and a supplemental owner’s manual round out this car’s paper trail.

This Boss has been a Concours Gold winner at the Corvette and Muscle Car Nationals in 2013 and 2014. In 2013, it also achieved a Concours Gold award at the Mustang Club of America’s Stars, Stripes and Stangs National Mustang Show in their trailered division. Another Concours Gold at the Shelby American Automobile Club’s 40th Anniversary event was earned in 2015. The same result occurred at the Antique Automobile Club of America Eastern Division Fall Meet in the Junior category in 2014, and the Senior competition in 2015.

If you’re ready to sink your teeth into a truly iconic muscle car, why not select the baddest of the best there is? This 1969 Boss 429, offered with No Reserve, has the provenance, street cred and historical significance to turn a collection of even one car into a world-class exhibit.

For up-to-date information on this vehicle, click HERE. For a look at all the vehicles headed to the 2020 Scottsdale Auction, click HERE.