KNOW THIS GENERATION.
Look carefully at structural rust, suspension mounting areas, cooling-system condition, and incomplete restorations. Model-specific trim can be harder to replace than common mechanical service parts.
The 1974 launch offered four- and six-cylinder engines. A 302-cubic-inch V8 joined the range for 1975. Cobra II graphics and the 1978 King Cobra gave this generation its most recognizable performance identities.
TAKE IT ONE CHECK AT A TIME.
Checks are temporary and reset when you reload. Print the page to take notes beside the car.
ORIGINAL, RESTORED, OR MODIFIED?
These are different purchase decisions. An original car needs evidence of provenance. A restored car needs evidence of workmanship. A modified car needs a documented combination of compatible parts, tuning, and supporting systems. A desirable badge cannot answer those questions on its own.
Compare the vehicle with its period Ford reference, then use the applicable manual for technical checks. For modern cars, check NHTSA recalls separately; a VIN decode does not show an individual car’s open recalls.