The Ford SVT Mustang Cobra (also known as "SVT Mustang Cobra, SVT Cobra," or simply as "Cobra") is a pony car that was built by American automobile manufacturer Ford Motor Company 's Special Vehicle Team division (or SVT) for the 1993 to 2004 model years.
107-634: The SVT Cobra was a high-performance version of the Ford Mustang and was considered the top-of-the-line variant, being positioned above the Mustang GT and Mach 1 models during its production run. On three occasions, the race-ready, street-legal SVT Cobra R variant was produced in limited numbers. The SVT Cobra was succeeded by the Mustang Shelby GT500 which was introduced for the 2007 model year. The 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
214-415: A 3.8 OHV V6 3.8 L (232 cu in) engine rated at 145 bhp (108 kW) in 1994 and 1995, or 150 bhp (110 kW) (1996–1998), and was mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission or optional 4-speed automatic . Though initially used in the 1994 and 1995 Mustang GTS, GT and Cobra, Ford retired the 302 cid pushrod small-block V8 after nearly 30 years of use, replacing it with
321-594: A new Mustang was in development. It was to be a variant of the Mazda MX-6 assembled at AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, Michigan . Enthusiasts wrote to Ford objecting to the proposed change to a front-wheel drive, Japanese-designed Mustang without a V8 option. The result was the continuation of the existing Mustang while the Mazda MX-6 variant had a last-minute name change from Mustang to Probe and
428-613: A Cougar grille emblem) or Torino (an advertising campaign using the Torino name was actually prepared), while Henry Ford II wanted T-bird II. As the person responsible for Ford's research on potential names, Eggert added "Mustang" to the list to be tested by focus groups; "Mustang", by a wide margin, came out on top under the heading: "Suitability as Name for the Special Car". The name could not be used in Germany, however, because it
535-400: A Decade of Ford Performance, below is a list of items that set the 1994 SVT Cobra apart from the 1994 Mustang GT: Body and appearance components Engine and chassis The 1994 Cobra was available in three exterior paint colors, as shown in the table below. Interior color choices were black cloth, saddle cloth, black leather, and saddle leather. On the 1994 Cobra convertible, the vinyl top
642-476: A Getrag six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. A new independent rear suspension (IRS) system was developed specifically for the new model. It also became the first version factory designed as a right hand drive export model to be sold overseas through Ford new car dealerships in right hand drive markets. During this model year, left hand drive versions were expanded to new export markets. BMW M21 The BMW M21
749-600: A V8 engine. The success of the Mustang launch led to multiple competitors from other American manufacturers, including the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird (1967), AMC Javelin (1968), and Dodge Challenger (1970). It also competed with the Plymouth Barracuda , which was launched around the same time. The Mustang also had an effect on designs of coupes worldwide, leading to the marketing of
856-417: A VIN verification through a complying Ford body shop to obtain the special paint to repaint any damaged areas. The 1997 Cobra was basically a carryover of the 1996 model. The previous honeycomb grille was deleted to allow more airflow into the larger radiator that was standard on the entire Mustang lineup, and the 1997 Cobra had a larger diameter fan. Also new was a parallel-flow air conditioning condenser that
963-476: A bigger engine bay. Body styles included a coupe (or notchback ), hatchback , and convertible which was added for the 1983 model year. Available trim levels included an unnamed base model (1979–1981), Ghia (1979–1981), Cobra (1979–1981, 1993), L (1982–1984), GL (1982–1983), GLX (1982–1983), GT (1982–1993), Turbo GT (1983–1984), LX (1984–1993), GT-350 20th anniversary edition (1984), SVO (1984–1986) and Cobra R (1993). Engines and drivetrains carried over from
1070-453: A comparison test in their December 1995 issue. The 1996 Cobra engine redlined at 6,800 rpm, with fuel shut-off occurring at 7,000 rpm. Ford's modular V8 debuted in the all-new 1992 Ford Crown Victoria as a single-overhead-cam (SOHC) setup, and then the engine really displayed its power potential with 32 valves, dual overhead cams (DOHC), and 285 hp (213 kW) in the all-new 1993 Lincoln Mark VIII . The modular engine's aluminum block
1177-410: A high standard, saying it should be "a little jewel". Not only was it smaller than the original car, but it was also heavier, owing to the addition of equipment needed to meet new U.S. emission and safety regulations. Performance was reduced, and despite the car's new handling and engineering features the galloping mustang emblem "became a less muscular steed that seemed to be cantering ". Engines for
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#17327906229271284-458: A limited production run of 1,003 units, and all were painted Black and fitted with Saddle leather interiors and Black convertible tops. Newly available for the 1995 Cobra convertible was a removable hardtop option. This was a one-year-only option due to its $ 1,825 price and 90 pounds of additional weight; thus, only 499 of the Cobra convertibles came with this option. Removing or installing the hardtop
1391-786: A more subdued styling than the GT. The 1993 Cobra was available in four exterior paint choices, as shown in the table below. Interior color choices were opal gray cloth, black cloth, and opal gray leather. The 1993 Cobra R was the first of three special Cobra R models produced. The "R" designation stood for "Race" and as per the name, the cars did not have a radio, speakers, wiring and antenna, air conditioner, foglights, sound deadener, rear seat, rear safety belts, rear carpeting, and roll-up cargo cover, among other items. The car had power steering, but no other power assist options. It has roll-up windows, manual door locks, and manually-adjustable mirrors. The manually-adjustable Opal Gray cloth bucket seats from
1498-506: A new 3.8 L V6 for 1983. The 302 cu in (4.9 L) V8 was suspended after 1979 and replaced with a smaller, 4.2 L V8 which was dropped in favor of the high output 302 cu in (4.9 L) V8 for 1982. From 1979 to 1986, the Capri was domestically produced as a Mercury-badged version of the Mustang, using a few of its own styling cues. The third-generation Mustang had two different front-end styles. From 1979 to 1986,
1605-419: A new 302 cu in (4.9 L) V8 engine, designed with Federal emissions regulations in mind. The 1969 restyle "added more heft to the body as width and length again increased. Weight went up markedly too." Due to the larger body and revised front end styling, the 1969 models (but less so in 1970) had a notable aggressive stance. The 1969 models featured "quad headlamps" which disappeared to make way for
1712-536: A new aluminum 4.6 L DOHC modular unit that was smoother and had slightly better fuel economy. Starting with the 1996 model year, every Cobra engine was hand-assembled by two-person teams at the Ford Romeo Engine Plant in Romeo, Michigan, a practice that continued through the remainder of SVT Cobra production. Each engine had a label (later, a metal plaque on the 2003–2004 Cobra engines) bearing
1819-445: A new dual exhaust. GT models included 32-valve 5.0 L engine (4,951cc or 302.13 cu. in) (also referred to as the " Coyote ") producing 412 hp and 390 ft-lbs of torque. Brembo brakes were optional along with 19-inch wheels and performance tires. For 2012, a new Mustang Boss 302 version was introduced. The engine had 444 hp (331 kW; 450 PS) and 380 lb⋅ft (520 N⋅m) of torque. A "Laguna Seca" edition
1926-478: A power output of 235 hp (238 PS; 175 kW) at 4,600 rpm and 280 lb⋅ft (380 N⋅m) of torque at 4,000 rpm. According to Road & Track, the Mustang Cobra could complete a 1/4 mile in 14.5 seconds at a trap speed of 98 mph (158 km/h). Acceleration from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) took 5.9 seconds. The drivetrain received an upgraded transmission, rear disc brakes, and for
2033-411: A re-designed 2005 model year Mustang at the 2004 North American International Auto Show , codenamed "S197", that was based on the new D2C platform . Developed under the direction of chief engineer Hau Thai-Tang, a veteran engineer for Ford's IndyCar program under Mario Andretti, and exterior styling designer Sid Ramnarace , the fifth-generation Mustang's styling echoes the fastback Mustang models of
2140-623: A six-speed manual transmission. The GT and V6 models revised styling incorporated the grille and air intakes from the 2010–2012 GT500s. The decklid received a black cosmetic panel on all trim levels. The GT's 5.0 liter V8 gained eight horsepower from 412 hp (307 kW; 418 PS) to 420 hp (313 kW; 426 PS). The sixth generation Mustang was unveiled on December 5, 2013, in Dearborn, Michigan ; New York, New York ; Los Angeles, California ; Barcelona, Spain ; Shanghai, China ; and Sydney, Australia . The internal project code name
2247-413: A top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h). Muscle Mustangs & Fast Fords magazine tested a 1994 Cobra coupe and achieved a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 5.7 seconds and the quarter mile in 13.87 seconds at 99.49 mph (160.11 km/h). Initially, the 1994 SVT Cobra was only available as a coupe, but the first factory-produced SVT Cobra convertible was the 1994 Indy 500 Pace Car Replica . On
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#17327906229272354-674: A variety of performance packages were introduced that included the Mach 1 , the Boss 302 , and Boss 429 . The two Boss models were to homologate the engines for racing. The 1969 Mustang was the last year for the GT option (although it did return on the third-generation Mustang for the 1982 model year). A fourth model available only as a hardtop, the Grandé, saw success starting in 1969 with its soft ride, "luxurious" trim, 55 pounds (25 kg) of extra sound deadening, and simulated wood trim. Developed under
2461-550: A wider grille and a return to standard headlamps in the 1970 models. This switch back to standard headlamps was an attempt to tame the aggressive styling of the 1969 model, which some felt was too extreme and hurt sales, but 1969 production exceeded the 1970 total. Starting in 1969, to aid sales and continue the winning formula of the Mustang, a variety of new performance and decorative options became available, including functional (and non-functional) air scoops, cable and pin hood tie-downs, and both wing and chin spoilers. Additionally,
2568-507: Is S550. Changes include a body widened by 1.5 inches and lowered 1.4 inches, a trapezoidal grille, and a 2.75-inch lower decklid, as well as new colors. The passenger volume is increased to 84.5 cubic feet, the wheelbase is still 8 ft. 11.1 in. (107.1 in.), and three engine options are available: a newly developed 2.3 L EcoBoost 310 hp four-cylinder introduced to reach high tariff global markets like China, 3.7 L 300 hp V6, or 5.0 L Coyote 435 hp V8, with either
2675-630: Is a straight-six diesel engine developed by the German engine manufacturer BMW . It has swirl chamber injection and is based on the M20 petrol engine and was produced for BMW by the Upper Austrian Steyr engine plant from 1983 to 1991. It was succeeded by the M51 . In the 1970s BMW decided to develop an engine, which would both be powerful and have a good fuel economy . This was caused by
2782-610: The Chevrolet Monza , Pontiac Sunbird , Oldsmobile Starfire and Buick Skyhawk . First-year sales were 385,993 cars, compared with the original Mustang's twelve-month sales record of 418,812. Ultimately, the Mustang II was an early example of downsizing that would take place among Detroit's Big Three during the " malaise era ". Iacocca wanted the new car, which returned the Mustang to its 1965 model year predecessor in size, shape, and overall styling, to be finished to
2889-574: The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) Firestone Grand Sport Series and Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) World Challenge Class B Series. Of the three Cobra R models produced, the 1993 model had the benefit of being the lightest and the smallest. A total of 107 Cobra R models were produced, and all were painted in Vibrant Red Clearcoat. According to Ford's announcement on April 7, 1993,
2996-566: The James Bond movie Goldfinger was released September 17, 1964, at its London premiere, where Bond girl Tilly Masterson was in a spirited chase with James driving an Aston Martin DB5 in the Swiss Alps. A Tropical Turquoise (paint code O) coupe was again used in the next film Thunderball at its Tokyo premiere 9 December 1965 with Bond girl Fiona Volpe as she drives James to meet
3103-569: The Toyota Celica and Ford Capri in the United States (the latter, by Lincoln-Mercury). The Mercury Cougar was launched in 1967 as a unique-bodied higher-trim alternative to the Mustang; during the 1970s, it included more features and was marketed as a personal luxury car . From 1965 until 2004, the Mustang shared chassis commonality with other Ford model lines, staying rear-wheel-drive throughout its production. From 1965 to 1973,
3210-598: The Tremec TR-3650 five-speeds. For 2007, Ford's SVT launched the Shelby GT500 , a successor to the 2003/2004 Mustang SVT Cobra . The supercharged and intercooled Ford Modular 5,408 cc (5.4 L; 330.0 cu in) DOHC 4 valves per cylinder V8 engine with an iron block and aluminum heads was rated at 500 hp (507 PS; 373 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 480 lb⋅ft (651 N⋅m) of torque at 4,500 rpm. The 2010 model year Mustang
3317-599: The oil crisis in 1973 . In 1975 a group of BMW engineers started working on the M78/M105 diesel engine project, using the M20 petrol engine as the basis. By the time the engine entered production, the code name was changed to M21. The Steyr engine plant was planned from the beginning to be the sole manufacturer of the new diesel engine. It started as a joint venture with Steyr-Daimler Puch in 1978, but in February 1982 BMW took over
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3424-542: The "Mustang II", was introduced on September 21, 1973, two months before the first 1973 oil crisis , and its reduced size allowed it to compete against successful imported sports coupes such as the Japanese Datsun 240Z , Toyota Celica and the European Ford Capri (then Ford-built in Germany and Britain, sold in U.S. by Mercury as a captive import car). The Mustang II also later competed against
3531-418: The 1965 Mustang became the most successful vehicle launch since the 1927 Model A . Introduced on April 17, 1964 (16 days after the Plymouth Barracuda ), over 400,000 units were sold in its first year; the one-millionth Mustang was sold within two years of its launch. In August 2018, Ford produced the 10-millionth Mustang; matching the first 1965 Mustang, the vehicle was a 2019 Wimbledon White convertible with
3638-650: The 1974 models included the venerable 2.3 L I4 from the Pinto and the 2.8 L Cologne V6 from the Mercury Capri. The 1975 model year reintroduced the 302 cu in (4.9 L) Windsor V8 that was only available with the C-4 automatic transmission, power brakes, and power steering. This continued through production's end in 1978. Other transmissions were the RAD four-speed with unique gearing for all three engines, and
3745-465: The 1993 Cobra R, purchasers of the new Cobra R were required to hold a valid competition license or own a race team. This was done after many 1993 R models had ended up in private hands as collector vehicles; however, several 1995 Rs were purchased to collector car owners. For the 1996 model year, Ford retired the aging 302 cu in (4.9 L) "5.0" V8 in the Mustang GT and SVT Cobra, with
3852-445: The 1994 Mustang GT engine produced 215 hp (160 kW). The 1994 Cobra was introduced midway through the model year with the same engine as the 1993 Cobra. With its GT-40 cast-iron heads and lower intake and its Cobra-specific upper intake, power increased to 240 hp (179 kW; 243 PS). However, the actual output of the Cobra's GT-40 enhanced engine was probably higher. Ford claimed 6.3 seconds to achieve 60 mph and
3959-491: The 1995 Cobra R. Tires were the same BF Goodrich Comp T/A versions as before. Other minor changes included a redesigned console in which the dashboard-mounted digital clock pod was deleted, and the clock function was then integrated into the radio's digital display. Also, the standard premium sound system now included a single-disc CD player. Ford Mustang The Ford Mustang is a series of American automobiles manufactured by Ford . In continuous production since 1964,
4066-419: The 1995 Cobra convertible, the vinyl top was only available in black, and was the same one used on regular Mustang convertibles. All prices below are in United States dollars when the vehicles were sold new at a Ford dealership before any available options were added. In the wake of the 1993 R's success, SVT engineers developed a more powerful R-model based on the 1995 Cobra. The Cobra's 5.0 L V8
4173-524: The 3.8 L was increased to 193 bhp. In 2004, a 3.9 L variant of the Essex engine replaced the standard 3.8 L mid year with an increase of 3 ft⋅lb (4 N⋅m) of torque as well as NVH improvements. There were also three alternate models offered in this generation: the 2001 Bullitt , the 2003 and 2004 Mach 1 , as well as the 320 bhp (240 kW) 1999 and 2001, and 390 bhp (290 kW) 2003 and 2004 Cobra . This generation
4280-570: The C-3 automatic behind the 2.3 L and 2.8 L. The "5.0 L" marketing designation was not applied until the 1978 King Cobra model. All 302 cu in (4.9 L)-equipped Mustang IIs, except the King Cobras, received updated versions of the classic Ford "V8" emblem on each front fender. The car was available in coupe and hatchback versions, including a "luxury" Ghia model designed by Ford's recently acquired Ghia of Italy. The coupe
4387-552: The Cobra R was produced to take the Fox-bodied Mustang out in grand style, a "best of the last" model. According to SVT, the Cobra R can accelerate from zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h). Ford introduced the newly redesigned Mustang (code-named SN-95) in December 1993. It was the first major redesign since the third-generation Fox-bodied Mustang that
Ford Mustang SVT Cobra - Misplaced Pages Continue
4494-474: The Cobra coupe, the Mystic paint option cost $ 815 at the time, and the 1996 Mystic Cobra was the first production vehicle to wear a color-shifting factory paint job. A total of 1,999 Mystic Cobras were produced, and of these, 1,990 had black leather interiors and nine had black cloth interiors. Since the paint continues to have special proprietary uses, any remaining quantities are tightly controlled and thus require
4601-452: The Cobra package for 1980–81. 1982 marked the return of the Mustang GT (replacing the Cobra) which used a specially-modified high-output 302 cu in (4.9 L) engine. 1983 saw the return of the Mustang convertible after a nine-year absence. The front fascias of all Mustangs were restyled, featuring new grilles, sporting "blue oval" Ford emblems for the first time. 1984 introduced
4708-736: The Cobra was used in the Cobra R. However, the radiator was sourced from what was, by this time, two discontinued Fox-Platform mates: the Seventh-Generation Lincoln Continental and the Lincoln Continental Mark VII powered by the BMW M21 Turbo Diesel Engine, with a purge tank having been added to this Radiator for improved cooling. A power steering cooler (located behind the left foglight bezel) and an engine oil cooler were standard. The Cobra R wheels were actually
4815-649: The Getrag-Ford MT82 six-speed manual or the 6R80 six-speed automatic based on the ZF 6HP26 transmission , licensed for production by Ford. Electric power steering replaced the conventional hydraulic version. A new 3.72 L (227 cu in) aluminum block V6 engine weighed 40 lb (18 kg) less than the previous version. With 24 valves and twin independent variable cam timing (TiVCT) , it produced 305 hp (227 kW; 309 PS) and 280 lb⋅ft (380 N⋅m) of torque. The 3.7 L engine came with
4922-461: The Indianapolis 500 race. The other two were 1965 Mustang in 1964 and Fox-body Mustang in 1979. The 1995 Cobra was essentially a carryover of the 1994 model. The chrome SVT badge on the decklid was new for all SVT vehicles this year. A new vertical spat was added to the leading edge of each rocker panel extension to prevent rock damage to the lower body. The Cobra convertible returned for
5029-456: The M21 is water-cooled, has a cast iron block and a SOHC valvetrain. The camshaft is driven by a belt, each cylinder has one inlet and one outlet valve. Compared to the M20, the M21 has reinforced connecting rods , cylinder heads , pistons, valves and a reinforced crankshaft with seven bearings. For faster engine startup the M21 has a glowplug system called instant start , which reduces
5136-422: The Mustang II including the 2.3 L I4, 2.8 L V6, and 4.9 L V8 engines. A troublesome 2.3 L turbocharged I4 was available during initial production startup and then reappeared after undergoing improvements for the mid-year introduction of the 1983 turbo GT. The 2.8 L V6, in short supply, was replaced with a 3.3 L I6 engine during the 1979 model year. That engine was ultimately replaced with
5243-599: The Mustang LX were lighter than the GT/Cobra sport seats, and a piece of thin gray carpeting secured by Velcro covered the bare hatch and rear seat area. The deletions reduced weight by 450 pounds, but this was somewhat offset by the necessary addition of heavy-duty hardware needed for competition. To stiffen the chassis, a strut tower brace was installed to tie the cowl together, and a pair of V-braces (used on all 1983–1993 Mustang convertibles) attached in an X-pattern tied
5350-446: The Mustang is currently the longest-produced Ford car nameplate. Currently in its seventh generation , it is the fifth-best selling Ford car nameplate. The namesake of the " pony car " automobile segment, the Mustang was developed as a highly styled line of sporty coupes and convertibles derived from existing model lines, initially distinguished by "long hood, short deck" proportions. Originally predicted to sell 100,000 vehicles yearly,
5457-527: The Mustang was derived from the 1960 Ford Falcon compact. From 1974 until 1978, the Mustang (denoted Mustang II) was a longer-wheelbase version of the Ford Pinto . From 1979 until 2004, the Mustang shared its Fox platform chassis with 14 other Ford vehicles (becoming the final one to use the Fox architecture). Since 2005, Ford has produced two generations of the Mustang, each using a distinct platform unique to
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#17327906229275564-717: The Mustang was paired with a Mercury variant, called the Cougar , which used its own styling cues, such as a "prowling cat" logo and hidden quad headlamps. New safety regulations by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for 1967 included an energy-absorbing steering column and wheel, 4-way emergency flashers, and a dual-circuit hydraulic braking system, and softer interior knobs. The 1968 models received revised side scoops, steering wheel, and gasoline caps. Side marker lights were also added that year, and cars built after January 1, 1968, included shoulder belts for both front seats on coupes. The 1968 models also introduced
5671-499: The Mustang's growth, he did oversee the 1967 redesign." From 1967 until 1973, the Mustang got bigger but not necessarily more powerful. The Mustang was facelifted , giving the Mustang a more massive look overall and allowing a big block engine to be offered for the first time. Front and rear end styling was more pronounced, and the "twin cove" instrument panel offered a thicker crash pad and larger gauges. Hardtop, fastback, and convertible body styles continued as before. Around this time,
5778-455: The T-top roof option, which included a leatherette storage bag that clipped to the top of the spare tire hump. The 1979 Mustang was based on the larger Fox platform (initially developed for the 1978 Ford Fairmont and Mercury Zephyr ). The larger body with an increased wheelbase yielded more interior space for four passengers, especially in the back seat, as well as a larger capacity trunk and
5885-526: The all-new 1994 Mustang convertible, but it was delayed due to supply problems and quality control concerns. This hardtop option was not available on the 1995 Mustang GT convertible. The biggest news for 1995 was the return of the SVT Cobra R . The 1995 Cobra was available in the same three exterior paint colors from 1994, shown in the table below. Interior color choices were the same as in 1994: black cloth, saddle cloth, black leather, and saddle leather. On
5992-436: The automaker, it was based on an updated version of the rear-wheel drive Fox platform called "Fox-4." The new styling by Patrick Schiavone incorporated several styling cues from earlier Mustangs. For the first time since its introduction 1964, a notchback coupe model was not available. The door windows on the coupe were once again frameless; however, the car had a fixed "B" pillar and rear windows. The base model came with
6099-414: The availability of an "MPG" model which had a different rear axle ratio for better fuel economy. 1976 added the "Stallion" trim package. The Mach 1 remained through the life cycle 1974–1978. Other changes in appearance and performance came with a "Cobra II" version in 1976–1978 and a "King Cobra" in 1978 of which around 4,972 were built. The 1977–1978 hatchback models in all trim levels were now available with
6206-587: The components and setting up the production process was A$ 4,000,000. Sales did not meet expectations, due in part to a high selling price. In total, just 377 Mustangs were sold in Australia between 2001 and 2003. For promotional purposes, Ford Racing Australia also built a Mustang V10 convertible, which was powered by a Ford Modular 6.8 L V10 engine from the American F truck series but fitted with an Australian-made Sprintex supercharger. Ford introduced
6313-468: The first time on a factory Mustang, 17-inch unidirectional wheels. Cobra models received a softer, more compliant ride compared to the GT model. This was done by using model-specific springs and sway bars. The 1993 SVT Cobra's short block (cylinder block, crankshaft, rods, and pistons) was carried over from the GT model. SVT engineers added the following performance items: The Borg-Warner World Class T-5 transmission received an internal upgrade compared to
6420-524: The founding fathers of SVT, the 1993 Cobra R's brakes "were the most expensive brakes ever fitted to a [production] Mustang. I bought the brakes for the R model out of my engineering budget. I wanted big brakes, and we didn't have them. The program couldn't afford it. Unbeknownst to the higher-ups at Ford, I spent like $ 2,100 per car to buy those big brakes. But the last thing I wanted was a fast car that didn't stop. We ended up putting good brakes on all those [Cobra R] vehicles." The same 5.0 L V8 from
6527-416: The front disk brakes. Additional changes included heavy-duty progressive-rate springs, thicker stabilizer bars, and a front strut tower brace. The 1995 R was available only in white with a saddle cloth interior, each with a unique center-tiered fiberglass hood designed to clear the engine and induction system. A total of 250 were built, with Ford keeping 18 examples for its press and engineering fleets. Unlike
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#17327906229276634-511: The front end was angled back using four rectangular headlights, known by enthusiasts as "four eyes". The front end was restyled for 1987 to 1993 model years to reflect the contemporary, rounded-off "aero" style of the Ford Taurus using flush-composite headlamps and a smooth grille-less nose. The Mustang was selected as the 1979 Official Indianapolis 500 Pace Car with replicas sold to the public. Its special body-appearance parts were adapted by
6741-403: The high-performance Mustang SVO, which featured a 2.3 L turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder engine and unique bodywork. The Mustang celebrated its 20th anniversary with a special GT350 model in white with red interior and red lower-bodyside rocker stripes. 1985 Mustangs received another front-fascia restyle. In response to poor sales and escalating fuel prices during the early 1980s,
6848-404: The horn ring bearing the 'Ford Falcon' logo covered by a trim ring with a 'Ford Mustang' logo. These characteristics made enough difference to warrant designation of the 121,538 early versions as "1964½" Mustangs, a distinction that has endured with purists. Ford's designers began drawing up larger versions even as the original was achieving sales success, and while "Iacocca later complained about
6955-476: The illusion that the cars were even larger." The 1971 Mustang was nearly 3 inches (75 mm) wider than the 1970, its front and rear track was also widened by 3 inches (75 mm), and its size was most evident in the SportsRoof models with its nearly flat rear roofline and cramped interior with poor visibility for the driver. Performance decreased with sales continuing to decrease as consumers switched to
7062-766: The late-1960s. Ford's senior vice president of design, J Mays , called it " retro-futurism ". The fifth-generation Mustang was manufactured at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Flat Rock, Michigan . For the 2005 to 2010 production years, the base model was powered by a 210 hp (157 kW; 213 PS) cast-iron block 4.0 L SOHC V6 , while the GT used an aluminum block 4.6 L SOHC three-valve Modular V8 with variable camshaft timing (VCT) that produced 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS). Base models had Tremec T5 five-speed manual transmissions with Ford's 5R55S five-speed automatic being optional. Automatic GTs also featured this, but manual GTs had
7169-518: The learning curve for assembly and repair workers, while at the same time allowing dealers to pick up the Mustang without also having to invest in additional spare parts inventory to support the new car line. Original sales forecasts projected less than 100,000 units for the first year. This mark was surpassed in three months from rollout. Another 318,000 would be sold during the model year (a record), and in its first eighteen months, more than one million Mustangs were built. Several changes were made at
7276-563: The model line. Through its production, multiple nameplates have been associated with the Ford Mustang series, including GT, Mach 1, Boss 302/429, Cobra (separate from Shelby Cobra ), and Bullitt, along with "5.0" fender badging (denoting 4.9 L OHV or 5.0 L DOHC V8 engines). Executive stylist John Najjar , who was a fan of the World War II P-51 Mustang fighter plane, is credited by Ford with suggesting
7383-543: The name. Najjar co-designed the first prototype of the Ford Mustang known as the " Ford Mustang I " in 1961, working jointly with fellow Ford stylist Philip T. Clark . The Mustang I made its formal debut at the United States Grand Prix in Watkins Glen, New York , on October 7, 1962, where test driver and contemporary Formula One race driver Dan Gurney lapped the track in a demonstration using
7490-427: The names and signatures of the two engine builders. The Romeo engine, as it was called, produced 305 hp (227 kW) and 300 lb⋅ft (410 N⋅m) of torque, enabling the new Cobra to go 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds and do the quarter mile in 13.99 seconds at 101.6 mph. However, Car and Driver magazine was able to hit 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and the quarter mile in 14.00 seconds at 102 mph during
7597-597: The new car was, on 14 April 1964, first sold to the public, at a Ford dealership in St. John's, Newfoundland , Canada before it was even introduced on April 17, 1964, at the New York World's Fair . Body styles available included a two-door hardtop and convertible, with a "2+2" fastback added to the line in September 1964. A Wimbledon White (paint code P) convertible with red interior was used as product placement when
7704-441: The newer Modular 4.6 L (281 cu in) SOHC V8 in the 1996 Mustang GT. The 4.6 L V8 was initially rated at 215 bhp (160 kW), 1996–1997, but was later increased to 225 bhp (168 kW) in 1998. For 1999, the Mustang was reskinned with Ford's New Edge styling theme with sharper contours, larger wheel arches, and creases in its bodywork, but its basic proportions, interior design, and chassis remained
7811-512: The normal start of the 1965 production year. The early production versions are often referred to as "1964½ models", but all Mustangs were advertised, VIN coded and titled by Ford as 1965 models, though minor design updates in August 1964 at the formal start of the 1965 production year contribute to tracking 1964 1 ⁄ 2 production data separately from 1965 data (see data below). With production beginning in Dearborn, Michigan , on March 9, 1964;
7918-443: The optional 17x8-inch five-lug wheels from the soon-to-be-released 1994 Mustang GT, but were painted gloss black and featured chrome lug covers. The standard tires were Goodyear Gatorbacks. To give the car better front-end geometry, lower control arms from the 1994 Mustang were fitted. Contrary to SVT's stated wishes, many Cobra R models were purchased by private collectors and never actually driven, but several competed successfully in
8025-452: The public which made use of the 85 kW (115 PS) M21. It was the E28 524td , which has a top speed of 180 km/h (110 mph) and reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) in 12.9 s. This 5-series BMW was the fastest series production diesel car in the world in 1983. It has a fuel economy of 7.1 L/100 km (40 mpg ‑imp ; 33 mpg ‑US ). As per the M20,
8132-470: The public would take interest in the first production Mustang. The 1963 Mustang II concept car was designed with a variation of the production model's front and rear ends with a roof that was 2.7 in (69 mm) lower. It was originally based on the platform of the second-generation North American Ford Falcon , a compact car . Gale Halderman's side view design is the basis for the first clay model. The Ford Mustang began production five months before
8239-507: The reins. The first engines built there (in early 1982) were six-cylinder petrol units. Beginning in 1983, Ford was planning to buy 190,000 BMW turbodiesels over a period of several years. With the American diesel market imploding in the early 1980s, Ford only built a small number of Lincolns thus equipped and only for two model years. In 1983 at the IAA , the first passenger car was shown to
8346-407: The same as the previous model. The Mustang's powertrains were carried over for 1999, but benefited from new improvements. The standard 3.8 L V6 had a new split-port induction system, and was rated at 190 bhp (140 kW) 1999–2000, while the Mustang GT's 4.6 L V8 saw an increase in output to 260 bhp (190 kW) (1999–2004), due to a new head design and other enhancements. In 2001,
8453-524: The same day that the new 1994 Cobra coupe was launched, SVT announced that it would be building a Cobra convertible (the first factory-produced "Cobra" convertible since the 1970 Shelby models) and that this convertible had been selected to pace the 1994 Indianapolis 500. The new Cobra convertible, or Indy 500 Pace Car Replica, was made available later in the 1994 model year. The 1994 Cobra offered refinements compared to lower trim level Mustang models. According to Jim Campisano's book Powered by SVT: Celebrating
8560-458: The second "race" prototype. An alternative view was that Robert J. Eggert, Ford Division market research manager, first suggested the Mustang name. Eggert, a breeder of quarterhorses , received a birthday present from his wife of the book, The Mustangs by J. Frank Dobie in 1960. Later, the book's title gave him the idea of adding the "Mustang" name for Ford's new concept car. The designer preferred Cougar (early styling bucks can be seen wearing
8667-580: The second series Corvette Sting Ray and European sports cars such as the Jaguar E-Type coupe. To achieve an advertised list price of US$ 2,368 (equivalent to $ 22,895 in 2023), the Mustang was based heavily on familiar yet simple components, many of which were already in production for other Ford models. Many (if not most) of the interior, chassis , suspension , and drivetrain components were derived from those used on Ford's Falcon and Fairlane . This use of common components also shortened
8774-501: The smaller Pintos and Mavericks . A displeased Iacocca summed up later: "The Mustang market never left us, we left it." Iacocca, who had been one of the forces behind the original Mustang, became president of Ford Motor Company in 1970, and ordered a smaller, more fuel-efficient Mustang for 1974. Initially, it was to be based on the Ford Maverick , but ultimately was based on the Ford Pinto subcompact. The new model, called
8881-504: The standard World Class T-5. This consisted of custom gearing for the first to third gears (which were reduced by 10% and hardened) while the fourth and fifth (hardened) gear was the same as standard T-5s found in the LX/GTs. The holding capacity of the Cobra's clutch was increased by way of a higher clamping force pressure plate using the same 10-inch diameter as the GT/LX. The Cobra featured
8988-412: The subframes together. The Cobra R featured Eibach springs that were too stiff for the street, but designed for a racetrack. The Cobra R also had adjustable Koni shocks and struts. The car also featured 13-inch Kelsey-Hayes vented rotors in front and 10.5-inch vented rotors in the back. According to Neil W. Ressler, the executive director of vehicle engineering for Ford Motor Company at the time and one of
9095-488: The table below. Interior color choices were the same as before: black cloth, saddle cloth, black leather, and saddle leather. On Cobra convertibles, the vinyl top was available in black, saddle, or white, and was the same one used on regular Mustang convertibles. All prices below are in United States dollars when the vehicles were sold new at a Ford dealership before any available options were added. To promote
9202-536: The technological advances and mechanical achievements of its new modular engine, Ford introduced the Mystic Cobra for the 1996 model year, featuring a color-shifting paint formulated by BASF. Utilizing color-shifting ChromaFlair pigments from Flex Products, the Mystic paint shifted from green to amber to gold to purple depending on the angle and the availability of light. The research and development process for this paint took three years to complete. Only available on
9309-404: The time to reach starting temperature compared to similar diesel engines. The fuel is injected into swirl chambers. A Garrett turbocharger is used (without an intercooler ). Initially, the M21 was only available as a turbocharged engine. In 1985, BMW introduced a naturally aspirated version of the M21, which was popular in countries with a high motor vehicle tax. Initially, the fuel pump
9416-595: The traditional opening of the new model year (beginning August 1964), including the addition of back-up lights on some models, the introduction of alternators to replace generators , an upgrade of the six-cylinder engine from 170 to 200 cu in (2.8 to 3.3 L) with an increase from 101 to 120 hp (75 to 89 kW), and an upgrade of the V8 engine from 260 to 289 cu in (4.3 to 4.7 L) with an increase from 164 to 210 hp (122 to 157 kW). The rush into production included some unusual quirks, such as
9523-489: The villain Emilio Largo at his compound at a very high speed across The Bahamas . Favorable publicity articles appeared in 2,600 newspapers the next morning, the day the car was "officially" revealed. A four-seat car with full space for the front bucket seats and a rear bench seat was standard. A "fastback 2+2", first manufactured on August 17, 1964, enclosed the trunk space under a sweeping exterior line similar to
9630-512: The watch of S. "Bunkie" Knudsen , Mustang evolved "from speed and power" to the growing consumer demand for bigger and heavier "luxury" type designs. "The result was the styling misadventures of 1971–73 ...the Mustang grew fat and lazy," "Ford was out of the go-fast business almost entirely by 1971." "This was the last major restyling of the first-generation Mustang." "The cars grew in every dimension except height, and they gained about 800 pounds (360 kg)." "The restyling also sought to create
9737-522: The weight of television camera equipment), a Halon fire-extinguisher system, a rollbar with 50,000-watt strobe lights built in, and special lights in the rear spoiler. Parnelli Jones , a seven-time Indy 500 competitor who won the 1963 race, drove the pace car at the event. A total of 1,000 Indy 500 Pace Car Replicas were produced. All were painted in Rio Red and fitted with Saddle leather interiors and matching Saddle vinyl tops. The Indy 500 winged-tire logo
9844-403: Was a two-person job, and this hardtop could not easily fit any other Mustang or Cobra convertible from this vintage due to the latching mechanisms of the fiberglass top and the dome light wiring. Included with this option, was a carrier that rolled on four casters allowing for storage of the hardtop when it was not being used. This hardtop option was originally supposed to be an available option for
9951-421: Was also available, which offered additional body bracing, the replacement of the rear seat with a steel "X-brace" for stiffening, and other powertrain and handling enhancements. In the second quarter of 2012, Ford launched an update to the Mustang line as an early 2013 model. The Shelby GT500 had a new 5.8 L supercharged V8 producing 662 hp (494 kW; 671 PS). The Shelby and Boss engines came with
10058-582: Was cast in Italy by Teksid, a firm that produces parts for Ferrari and Formula One racers. SVT fitted the 1996 Cobra with the Borg Warner T-45 5-speed manual transmission , which was also used in the Mustang GT. (Tremec bought the production rights for the T-45 in late 1998, although the unit remained unchanged in terms of strength.) The 1996 Cobra was available in four exterior paint colors, as shown in
10165-505: Was exclusive to the SVT Cobra. The rear spoiler was now optional, as it had been standard on all previous models. The only other major change for 1997 was in the color palette. The 1997 Cobra was available in four exterior colors. The interior choices were the same as what was offered in 1996: black cloth, saddle cloth, black leather, and saddle leather. On Cobra convertibles, the vinyl top was again available in black, saddle, or white, and
10272-420: Was featured as a chrome cloisonné badge on the decklid and embroidered on the front seatbacks. A set of "Official Pace Car" decals were shipped inside the trunk and up to the buyer's discretion to install them. The decals on the three official pace cars had the tire logo in white, while it was grey on the replica decals. The 1994 SVT Mustang Cobra was the third Ford Mustang selected for official pace car duties at
10379-547: Was introduced for the 1979 model year. Known as Fox-4 (because it was based on the Fox platform as a 1994 model), the new 1994 Mustang was an improvement over the outgoing 1993 model. The new car's ride, handling, styling, ergonomics, and standard and optional equipment were improved from the previous model. However, the Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 and Pontiac Firebird Formula and Trans Am , that were redesigned for 1993, came standard with 275 hp (205 kW), while
10486-400: Was launched during the 1992 Chicago Auto Show . It was the premier vehicle of Ford's newly established SVT division, designed to showcase SVT's hallmarks of performance, substance, exclusivity, and value. The exterior of the 1993 SVT Cobra was similar to that year's GT model with differences explained below. The upgrades featured a 302 cu in (4.9 L) "5.0" V8 engine , rated at
10593-414: Was marketed as a "hardtop" but actually had a thin "B" pillar and rear quarter windows that did not roll down. All Mustangs in this generation did feature frameless door glass, however. The "Ghia" featured a thickly padded vinyl roof and starting with 1975 models smaller rear quarter windows, giving a more formal look. 1974 models were: hardtop, hatchback, Mach 1, and Ghia. Changes introduced for 1975 included
10700-674: Was only available in saddle, and was the same one used on regular Mustang convertibles. All prices below are in United States dollars when the vehicles were sold new at a Ford dealership before any available options were added. To celebrate Ford Mustang's 30th anniversary in 1994, a trio of SVT Cobra convertibles served as pace cars for the 78th Indianapolis 500 race on May 29, 1994. The three cars were modified by Jack Roush in Allen Park, Michigan. The pace cars were installed with heavy-duty four-speed automatic transmissions, 15-gallon racing fuel cells, heavier rear springs (to accommodate
10807-412: Was owned by Krupp , which had manufactured trucks between 1951 and 1964 with the name "Mustang". Ford refused to buy the name for about US$ 10,000 (equivalent to $ 98,240 in 2023) from Krupp at the time. Kreidler , a manufacturer of mopeds, also used the name, so Mustangs were sold in Germany as "T-5s" until December 1978. Lee Iacocca 's assistant general manager and chief engineer, Donald N. Frey
10914-406: Was released as a 1989 model. The Mustang received a major restyling for 1987, including the interior, which carried it through the end of the 1993 model year. Under the newly established Ford SVT division, the 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra and Cobra R were added as special, high-performance models. In November 1993, the Mustang debuted its first major redesign in fifteen years. Code-named "SN95" by
11021-621: Was released in the spring of 2009 with a redesigned exterior — which included sequential LED taillights — and a reduced drag coefficient of 4% on base models and 7% on GT models. The engine for base Mustangs remained unchanged, while the GT's 4.6 L V8 was revised resulting in 315 hp (235 kW; 319 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 325 lb⋅ft (441 N⋅m) of torque at 4,255 rpm. Other mechanical features included new spring rates and dampers, traction and stability control system standard on all models, and new wheel sizes. Engines were revised for 2011, and transmission options included
11128-413: Was replaced with an SVT modified version of Ford's 5.8 L Windsor V8, re-engineered to have a power output of 300 hp (224 kW; 304 PS). A new 22-gallon fuel cell was installed. A Tremec 3550 5-speed manual transmission was standard. Weight savings were achieved by the deletion of the back seat, radio, power windows/seats, and air-conditioning. The fog lights were omitted to provide ducts for
11235-462: Was sold in Australia between 2001 and 2002, to compete against the Holden Monaro (which eventually became the basis for the reborn Pontiac GTO ). Due to the fact that the Mustang was never designed for right-hand-drive, Ford Australia contracted Tickford Vehicle Engineering to convert 250 Mustangs and modify them to meet Australian Design Rules per year. The development cost for redesigning
11342-589: Was the head engineer for the T-5 project —supervising the overall development of the car in a record 18 months —while Iacocca himself championed the project as Ford Division general manager. The T-5 prototype was a two-seat, mid-mounted engine roadster . This vehicle employed the German Ford Taunus V4 engine . The original 1962 Ford Mustang I two-seater concept car had evolved into the 1963 Mustang II four-seater concept car which Ford used to pretest how
11449-456: Was the same one used on regular Mustang convertibles. All prices below are in United States dollars when the vehicles were sold new at a Ford dealership before any available options were added. The 1998 Cobra remained mostly unchanged from previous model years. The wheels were similar to the cast-aluminum units used on the 1995 Cobra R, but the wheel cutouts were painted gray, and the wheels were 17x8-inch, instead of 17x9-inch versions on
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