Ford stopped selling the limited-edition, high-performance Cobra offshoot of its Mustang during the 2000 model year amid complaints about its performance. The 1999 models were recalled because owners insisted that the V-8 engine produced less than its advertised 320 horsepower. Ford replaced the engines intake manifold and part of its exhaust system, in addition to recalibrating the engines computer.
Presumably, those complaints have been remedied with satisfaction, because the Cobra, a product of Fords Special Vehicle Team, is back again to delight its many fans. Ever since the 1960s, the Cobra name has been used on high-performance models, including the Cobra R two-seat street-legal racing cars that have been issued in recent years, in small numbers, to compete with the Chevrolet Corvette.
Beneath the hood, the V-8 produces 60 hp more than the engine in a Mustang GT. This yearss Cobras wear a new hood and unique front fascia with round fog lamps. COBRA lettering is set within the rear fascia. Instead of the Mustangs usual solid rear axle, Cobras benefit from an independent rear suspension with steel upper and aluminum lower control arms. Revisions have been made to suspension bushings and pinion angle to help yield a smoother ride that Ford says is especially noticeable on long-distance trips.
Exterior
Like regular Mustangs, Cobras come in either coupe or convertible form. Though shaped like other Mustangs, Cobras have special features that set them apart, both visually and when the drivers throttle foot pushes toward the floor. Cobras are equipped with unique, 17-inch wheels, and they lack the rear spoiler that is installed on other Mustangs. Polished wheels are optional, and vented 13-inch Brembo front brake rotors are standard.
Interior
In addition to the stronger V-8 engine and independent rear suspension, Cobras have such extras as traction control, remote keyless entry, cruise control, a Mach 460 stereo with an in-dash six-CD changer, lighted visor mirrors and an anti-theft system. White-faced gauges have green LED backlighting. Articulated sport seats have leather seating surfaces and power lumbar support, and the driverss seat features six-way power adjustment. Stiffer side and thigh bolsters give the seats greater stability and comfort, according to Ford. Seatbacks contain an embroidered Cobra logo, while seat bottoms have Alcantara inserts. A new floor console features bigger cupholders.
Under the Hood
Unlike the 4.6-liter single-cam V-8 engine that goes into the Mustang GT, the Cobra gets a 320-hp dual overhead cam version. Torque output is 317 pounds feet vs. 302 for the GTs V-8. A five-speed manual is the only transmission available. Ford claims that an SVT Cobra can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and can run a quarter mile in 13.8 seconds reaching 102 mph.
All-disc antilock brakes, dual front airbags and all-speed traction control are standard.
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