Fender Mustang (1971)

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Apr 03, 2026

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Price

Average Price: $2,150

High-end/Boutique

$400

$1001+

Price Tier

In the Solid Body Electric Guitars category, Fender Mustang (1971) is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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Step back in time with the Vintage 1971 Fender Mustang, an iconic piece of musical history that has captured the hearts of musicians for over five decades. Renowned for its distinct tone and exceptional playability, this solid body electric guitar embodies the spirit of the early '70s rock era. Its classic offset body design provides both comfort and style, making it a perfect fit for a variety of playing techniques and musical genres.

The Mustang is celebrated for its dynamic dual single-coil pickups, delivering a punchy and versatile sound that ranges from warm, mellow tones to bright, cutting highs. The short 24-inch scale length offers a unique playability ideal for both novice and seasoned guitarists, enhancing ease of finger movement across the fretboard. Additionally, the distinctive floating bridge and tremolo system allow for expressive vibrato effects, adding depth and character to your playing.

Beyond its functional features, this vintage model boasts a rich history and craftsmanship that's hard to replicate in modern instruments. Whether you're a collector, a performer, or both, the 1971 Fender Mustang is more than just a guitar; it's a piece of musical artistry.

Key Features:

Dual single-coil pickups for versatile tonal range
24-inch scale length for comfortable playability
Floating bridge with dynamic tremolo system
Iconic offset body design
Vintage 1971 model, a classic in rock history

Product specs

Brand	Fender
Model	Mustang
Finish	Sunburst
Year	1971
Made In	United States
Categories	Solid Body Electric Guitars
Body Shape	Double Cutaway
Body Type	Solid Body
Bridge/Tailpiece Type	Tremolo Tailpiece
Color Family	Brown
Finish Pattern	Sunburst
Finish Style	Gloss
Fretboard Material	Rosewood
Model Family	Fender Mustang
Neck Construction	Bolt-On
Neck Material	Maple
Number of Frets	22
Number of Strings	6-String
Offset Body	Offset Body
Pickup Configuration	SS
Right / Left Handed	Right Handed
Scale Length	24"
Series	Fender Vintage CBS Era

FAQs

What is the neck profile like on the Vintage 1971 Fender Mustang Sunburst?: The Vintage 1971 Fender Mustang features a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, which offers a smooth playing experience suitable for both rhythm and lead playing styles.
What kind of tones can I expect from the pickups on the 1971 Fender Mustang?: The 1971 Fender Mustang is equipped with single-coil pickups that deliver bright, punchy tones with a distinct vintage character, making it ideal for genres like rock, surf, and indie music.
Is the 1971 Fender Mustang Sunburst suitable for beginners?: Yes, the 1971 Fender Mustang Sunburst is suitable for beginners due to its shorter 24" scale length, which makes it easier to play, especially for those with smaller hands.
How does the tremolo tailpiece on the 1971 Fender Mustang function?: The tremolo tailpiece on the 1971 Fender Mustang allows for subtle vibrato effects, adding expressiveness to your playing without drastically affecting tuning stability.
What woods are used in the construction of the 1971 Fender Mustang Sunburst?: The 1971 Fender Mustang Sunburst features a maple neck and a rosewood fretboard, providing a balanced tone with a smooth feel for comfortable playing.

Videos

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1971 Fender Mustang

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Fender Mustang 1971 Vintage original sunburst

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fender Mustang (1971).

Build quality

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The original "Mocha" finish on the 1971 Fender Mustang can be mistaken for a refinish due to its unique wood-like appearance, which some describe as resembling a coffee table.
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Older cases from this era often feature a "Victoria" label, sparking curiosity about Fender's historical case collaborations.
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Value and pricing

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Mid-70s Fender Mustangs typically sell for $1,200-$2,000, with pristine pre-CBS models fetching up to $5,000.
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Owners report fluctuating prices for vintage Mustangs, with one finding a rare deal at $850, indicating a volatile market.
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Use cases and applications

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The Mustang's vintage tone is noted for its appeal in styles other than metal and prog rock, where it may not fit well.
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Comparisons

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These 70s Mustangs, despite their vintage status, aren't as sought-after as 60s models or more iconic finishes, impacting their market price.
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A user notes the lighter weight of vintage Mustangs' poplar body compared to modern basswood, making them "comically light."
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User experience

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Owners report that 70s Mustangs have a smooth playability with great action, though personal style compatibility varies.
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Owners find that tall narrow frets can feel like speed bumps, suggesting medium jumbo frets for smoother sliding and shifting.
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Owners highlight the exceptional tuning stability of the 1971 Mustang, even within CBS era models.
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One owner emphasizes the Mustang's sentimental value after 11 years of use, leading to its retirement from gigging due to concerns over theft.
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Mods and upgrades

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EP Custom pickups are praised for enhancing tone, with owners highlighting their effectiveness in reviving older models.
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Setup and maintenance

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Refretting with vintage tall stainless steel frets significantly improves playability, though some owners are cautious about fret height adjustments based on personal playing style.
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A friction-fit box in the case can store original parts, allowing for easy restoration by future owners.
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Features and functionality

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The smooth forearm contour of 70s Mustangs is preferred by some players over earlier models for comfort during extended play.
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Artist usage

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Kurt Cobain

Singer, Guitarist

Nirvana

Verified via Photo

Kurt Cobain used a Fender Mustang Sunburst (1971) during the Bleach era, incorporating a pickup from one of his smashed Univox guitars, alongside another unidentified pickup. He utilized this guitar for two shows before it was destroyed. For visual confirmation, refer to the image provided on Equipboard.