Tickford Bathurst '77 Special Ford Mustang: A Rare and Iconic Tribute to Australian Motorsport
This 2017 Tickford Bathurst 77 Special Mustang is an exceptional example of one of Australias most exclusive limited-edition Mustangs. Officially created to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Allan Moffat and Colin Bonds legendary 1-2 victory at the 1977 Hardie-Ferodo 1000, this special edition pays homage to a golden era of Australian motorsport.
Unlike typical factory models, Ford did not offer these Mustangs pre-made. Instead, the Bathurst 77 Special was a high-performance conversion package, priced at $64,500, for customer-owned 2017 Mustang GTs. Factoring in the base car, the total cost easily exceeded $100,000.
Exterior
The exterior is a striking tribute to Moffats famous XC Falcon hardtop. It features an iconic stripe kit, Bathurst circuit badges, and Moffats number 1 proudly displayed on the bonnet and roof, ensuring its connection to the racing legend. This particular Mustang, number 33 of only 40 built, holds extra significance as it was a special order to match Moffat's sponsor, Brut 33.
Performance
Under the bonnet, the standard 5.0-litre Coyote V8 engine is transformed with a Roush supercharger, boosting power from 306 kW/530 Nm to a staggering 542 kW/827 Nm. Enhancements include:
Cold-air induction system
High-flow injectors
Bespoke 3-inch Tickford exhaust system
The performance upgrades are complemented by Tickfords 25mm-lowered suspension package, frame bracing, and Wilwood slotted rotors for improved handling and braking performance. The car sits on stunning gold-finished 20-inch alloys, reminiscent of the Bathurst-winning Falcons wheels.
Interior
Inside, the Mustang is equally impressive. The cabin features leather and Alcantara seats with XC-inspired blue and red stitching, along with Tickfords logo on the seats and a bespoke steering wheel. Adding to its collectability, the glovebox and build plate are both signed by Allan Moffat himself.
Special Edition and History
This Mustang is not only a high-performance machine but also a piece of motorsport history. As one of just 40 units built, this particular car has travelled only 4,000 km since new and has been regularly serviced at a local Ford dealer. Its rarity and unique connection to Moffat, combined with his current health, add to the long-term investment potential of this vehicle.
Sales History
Since 2017, the Tickford Bathurst 77 Special has commanded significant prices. A handful of early examples sold for upwards of $120,000. In 2019, the very first car off the production line was sold for over $200,000. Given the rarity, collectability, and increasing demand for limited-edition V8 muscle cars, this Mustang is poised to appreciate significantly in value.