Ford Mustang SVT Cobra

"Mustang Cobra" redirects here. For the Shelby Mustang Cobra, see Shelby Mustang.

"Ford Cobra" redirects here. For the Ford Shelby Cobra, see AC Cobra.

Ford Mustang SVT Cobra

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	1993-2004
Successor	Shelby Mustang
Class	Grand tourer
Body style	2-door coupe 2-door convertible
Layout	FR layout
Platform	Ford Fox platform

The Shelby Mustang SVT Cobra was a pony car built by Ford Motor Company and Shelby Special Vehicle Team It is a high performance version of the Mustang built by Ford, sitting in the model range above the Mustang GT model. On three occasions, Ford also produced a higher-performance Cobra R variant.

1993

Fox Body Windsor SVT Mustang Cobra

Production	1993 5,100 produced
Assembly	Dearborn, Michigan
Body style	3-door hatchback
Engine	5.0 L Windsor V8
Wheelbase	100.5 in (2,553 mm)
Length	179.6 in (4,562 mm)
Width	68.3 in (1,735 mm)
Height	52.1 in (1,323 mm)
Curb weight	3,255 lb (1,476 kg)

The 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra 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 four hallmarks of Performance, Substance, Exclusivity and Value.^[1] The exterior of the 1993 SVT Cobra does not represent a radical departure from the year's GT model: However, there are subtle differences, as explained below.

The true redesign and upgrade occurred beneath the bodywork: The powertrain was driven by a 302 CID V8 (5.0L) motor, producing 235 hp (175 kW) and 280 ft·lbs (380 N·m) of torque. According to Road & Track, this could send a Cobra through the 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.^[2] The drivetrain received an upgraded transmission, rear disc brakes, and for the first time on a factory Mustang, 17" unidirectional wheels. The suspension was not neglected, either: Cobra models received a softer, more compliant ride compared to the GT model. This was accomplished with model-specific springs and sway bars.

Note: Ford part numbers are listed below. In many cases Ford has two separate numbers for each part, the Ford production number (the fourth character is a Z), and an engineering number. The engineering number is usually what is stamped/cast on the part itself (the fourth character is E for engine parts, F for electronics, and C for chassis).

Engine

The 1993 SVT Cobra's short block (cylinder block, crankshaft, rods, and pistons) was carried over from the GT model. To this, Ford SVT engineers added the following performance items:^[3]

• Cylinder Heads: GT-40 "High Flow" Cast Iron heads were installed. They were milled for 62.5cc combustion chambers. Valves measure 1.84" (46.7mm) intake, and 1.54" (39.1mm) exhaust. The valves are actuated by Cobra-specific 1.7 ratio roller rockers, constructed of aluminum and produced for Ford by Crane Cams. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-6049-B (head), F3ZZ-6507-A (intake valve), F3ZZ-6505-A (exhaust valve), F3ZE-6529-AB (rockers).

• Intake Manifold: The Cobra upper manifold was unique to the 1993 Cobra and had a 2.75" (70.0mm) diameter round throttle body opening, diverting air into (8) round staggered ports, each 1.64" (41.7mm) diameter. The lower manifold was identical to the GT-40 manifold used by Ford Racing; it redirects airflow to a rectangular port configuration as needed by the cylinder heads. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-9424-C (upper manifold),F3ZZ-9424-D (lower).

• Camshaft: The cam is of the hydraulic roller type (same as the GT). However, the Cobra cam has unique specifications of 0.479"/0.479" (12.2mm/12.2mm) intake/exhaust lift, (209°/209°) duration at 0.050" (1.27mm), and a lobe separation of 118.3°, Part Number: F3ZE-6250-CA.

• Air/Fuel Delivery: The increased airflow and fuel consumption of the Cobra required these upgraded components: Larger (compared to the GT) 24 lb/hr fuel injectors, 2.75" (70.0mm) MAF meter, 2.56" (65.0mm) throttle body, and matching EGR plate handle the increased breathing of the motor. A specially calibrated X3Z EEC-IV engine control unit runs the system. Part Numbers: F1TZ-9F593-C (injectors), FIZF-12B579-AA (meter), F3ZF-12A650-CA (ECU).

• Accessories: The crankshaft pulley diameter decreased by 14% (as compared to the GT) in order to under-drive the alternator, A/C, and smog pump, all to increase power. The water pump pulley also decreased in diameter by the same amount in order to preserve the ratio of pump speed, and thus coolant flow. These smaller accessory pulleys necessitated a shorter serpentine belt. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-6A312-A (crank pulley), F3ZZ-8509-A (water pump pulley), F3ZZ-8620-A (belt).

• Exhaust: To extract the maximum amount of power from the Cobra's powerplant, Ford engineers used tuned mufflers with lower restriction (as compared to the GT). While the factory headers and H-pipe remained the same, the tailpipes were similar to that of a Mustang LX 5.0L (Sport) model in that they had straight stainless steel tips (instead of turn-down tips on the GT). This is because the Cobra had a revised rear fascia, allowing (unlike the GT) for an exposed dual exhaust. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-5230-A, stamped F3ZC-5230-CC (RH muffler), F3ZZ-5230-A, stamped F3ZC-5232-DC (LH muffler)

Drivetrain

With the increased engine output of the new Mustang SVT Cobra, the Borg-Warner World Class T-5 transmission (which was only used in the Cobra) needed an internal upgrade. This upgrade consisted of custom gearing 1-3(which were reduce 10% and hardened), 4th/5th(just hardened) gear was the same as standard T-5's found in the Lx/GT's. The clutch for the Cobra was increased in size over the standard Lx/GT clutches(10.5in vs 9.75in).

Suspension

• Shocks/Struts: The Cobra outsourced production of shocks and struts to the aftermarket manufacturer Tokico. The components used were specifically valved for the new car. Part Numbers: F3ZZ-18124-A (front struts), F3ZZ-18125-A (rear shocks).

Exterior Styling

Featuring more subdued styling than the GT, and the only exterior colors offered were (color codes are in parenthesis) Black Clearcoat (UA), Teal Metallic Clearcoat (RD), Vibrant Red Clearcoat (ES), and for a rare nine cars, Vibrant Red non-Clearcoat (EY).

1993 Cobra "R"

A Cobra "R" model was also produced in 1993. It featured larger brakes, Koni shocks and struts, an engine oil cooler, a power steering cooler, and a factory rear seat delete. Since the Cobra "R" was race oriented, options such as air conditioning and a stereo system were not offered. Each of the 107 produced were offered in Vibrant Red only.

Year	Model	Production
1993	Hatchback	4,993
	R	107
	Total	5,100

1994–1995

SN-95 Windsor SVT Mustang Cobra

Production	1994–1995 11,267 produced
Engine	5.0 L Windsor V8 5.8 L Windsor V8 (1995 R Model)
Transmission	5-speed T-5 manual
Wheelbase	101.3 in (2,573 mm)
Length	Cobra: 182.5 in (4,636 mm)
Width	71.8 in (1,824 mm)
Height	52.9 in (1,344 mm) Convertible: 53.3 in (1,354 mm)
Curb weight	Coupe: 3,354 lb (1,521 kg) Convertible: 3,524 lb (1,598 kg)

Ford re-introduced the Cobra in mid-1994 featuring the new styling as well as larger brakes, a revised suspension setup and wider wheels than the outgoing version, a "GT-40" lower intake and Cobra specific upper intake as well as GT-40 cast iron heads. Power was boosted to 240 hp (180 kW), though. New colors were introduced, Rio Red, Crystal White, and Black keeping the total palatte at three. Differences between GT and Cobra included the front bumper (Cobras feature round fog lights), Cobra-specific wheels, and in 1994 and 1995 the Cobra utilized the LX (V-6 3.8L) 'MUSTANG' rear bumper, while the 'COBRA' rear bumper didn't appear until 1996. Unique for the 1995 Cobra was the removable hard top option. These models were essentially the same as the convertible Cobra but had several small provisions to accept the retaining mechanisms of the fiberglass top and dome/map light wiring.

Year	Model	Production
1994	Coupe	5,009
	Convertible	1,000
	Total	6,009
1995	Coupe	4,005
	Convertible	1,003
	R	250
	Total	5,258
Total		11,267

1995 Cobra R

In the wake of the '93 R’s unexpected success, SVT engineers developed a more powerful R-model based on the 1995 Cobra. Top priority became addressing customer requests for a larger, more powerful engine and more fuel capacity. In response to those requests, SVT replaced the Cobra’s 5.0 L V8 with an SVT modified version of Ford’s 5.8 liter Windsor V8, re-engineered to produce 300 horsepower (220 kW) and installed a Kevlar 20 U.S. gallons (76 L) fuel tank. To handle the torque of the more powerful engine, a Tremec 3550 5 speed manual transmission was installed. See also 5-speed T-5 manual. Again, weight-savings was targeted, so there was no back seat, radio, power windows/seats or air-conditioning—not even fog lights, which were omitted to provide ducts for getting cool air onto the front disk brakes. Heavy-duty progressive-rate springs, thicker stabilizer bars and a front strut tower brace helped improve handling on the racetrack. Only 250 vehicles were built, available only in white with saddle cloth interior, each with a unique center-tiered fiberglass hood tall enough to clear the engine and induction system.

1996–1998

SN-95 Modular SVT Mustang Cobra

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	1996–1998 28,706 produced
Engine	4.6 L DOHC Modular V8
Transmission	5-speed T-45 manual
Wheelbase	101.3 in (2,573 mm)
Length	Cobra: 182.5 in (4,636 mm)
Width	71.8 in (1,824 mm)
Height	52.9 in (1,344 mm) Convertible: 53.2 in (1,351 mm)
Curb weight	Coupe: 3,375 lb (1,531 kg) Convertible: 3,565 lb (1,617 kg)

For 1996, Ford finally did away with the aging 5.0 liter V8 in the Mustang, replacing it with a new aluminum 4.6 liter, DOHC, "modular" unit that was smoother and had slightly better fuel economy. This engine produced 305 hp (227 kW) and 300 lbf·ft (410 N·m) of torque, making the new Cobra capable of high-13 second quarter miles. Early models were backed by the Borg Warner T-45 5-speed manual transmission. Late in 1998, Tremec bought production rights for the T-45, although it remained unchanged in terms of strength. In 1996 Ford also introduced the Mystic Cobra which featured color shifting paint manufactured by BASF. The paint was green based, and depending on the angle it was viewed the colors shifted from green to purple to root beer to gold. The 1998 Cobra was the last year of the return style fuel system which was replaced with a newer returnless system in 1999.

Year	Model	Production
1996	Coupe	7,493
	Convertible	2,510
	Total	10,003
1997	Coupe	6,961
	Convertible	3,088
	Total	10,049
1998	Coupe	5,174
	Convertible	3,480
	Total	8,654
Total		28,706

1999/2001

SN-95 2 Modular SVT Mustang Cobra

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	1999–2001 15,819 produced
Engine	4.6 L DOHC Modular V8 5.4 L DOHC Modular V8(2000 R Model)
Transmission	5-speed T-45 manual (1999) 5-speed 3650 manual (2001) 6-speed T-56 (2000 R Model) manual
Wheelbase	101.3 in (2,573 mm)
Length	1999-2004 Cobra: 183.5 in (4,661 mm)
Width	73.1 in (1,857 mm)
Height	53.2 in (1,351 mm) Convertible: 53.3 in (1,354 mm)
Curb weight	Coupe: 3,430 lb (1,556 kg) Convertible: 3,560 lb (1,615 kg)

With the introduction of the "new edge" Mustang in 1999, came a new SVT Cobra. All 1999-2001 Cobras featured independent rear suspension, unique to the Cobras. They also used a newer returnless fuel system which helped Ford meet tightening emission standards. The new Cobra had an upgraded 4.6L DOHC engine with 320 hp (239 kW) and 317 ft·lbf (429 N·m) of torque. The 4.6 L Cobra was not produced in 2000. Ford replaced the intake manifold, exhaust and computer components to produce 320 hp (240 kW). The Cobra came back in 2001 with the same power rating, close to its GM competition, the Camaro SS and Pontiac Trans Am Ram Air WS6 package that produced 325 hp (242 kW). While the 2001 Cobra shares almost all the same components of the 1999, some changes were made including:

• The engine block was changed from the Teksid block to the Windsor Aluminum Plant or WAP block. The WAP block is regarded to be weaker than the previous Teksid block. Some 2001s received the Teksid, either from the factory or as a replacement motor
• Revised cylinder heads.
• Cobra-specific seats with a combination of leather and alcantara [suede-like microfiber] inserts - 1999 Cobras had normal Mustang seats.
• A rear bumper that reads "COBRA", instead of "MUSTANG", as the 1999 Cobra had.
• A rear badge on the trunklid was changed to say "SVT" instead of "SVT Cobra" as the 1999 Cobra had.
• The wheels for the 1999 and 2001 are 17x8. The '99 & '01 were sold with silver powdercoated aluminum wheels. The 2001 had the option of polished wheels in the same style.
• The T-45 transmission in the 1999 model was replaced by the 3650 in the 2001 model.
• The axleshafts and differential were changed from 28 splines in 1999 to 31 splines in 2001.
• The spoiler was redesigned.
• The CD player was upgraded to a 6 disc unit.
• The center console and trim were redesigned.
• The emergency brake was fitted with a 'boot' of leather to cover the hole in the console where it protrudes.
• The headlights were changed from a chrome background to a black background. The newer headlights are sometimes referred a "smoked" or "tinted" but this only refers to the black background. The actual lenses are clear and identical to that of the 1999.
• The color of the odometer digits and instrument cluster lighting was slightly changed.

A Teksid block

A Windsor Aluminum Plant block

In the pictures at right showing the two blocks of the SN-95 2 SVT Mustang Cobra, note the extra ribs designed to impart strength to the weaker WAP. Also, note the hatching in valley of the Teksid is square, while the WAP has diagonal hatching.

A similar Cobra model was produced in the US in 2002 for export to the Australian market.*

Year	Model	Production
1999	Coupe	4,040
	Convertible	4,055
	Total	8,095
2000	R Coupe	300
	Total	300
2001	Coupe	3,867
	Convertible	3,384
	Total	7,251
2002 Total		100
Total		15,746 (including exports)

2000 Cobra R

In 2000, the Cobra R returned for a production run of 300 units (effectively taking the place of the standard Cobra for that model year) with a 5.4L DOHC engine (6500-rpm redline) that was rated at 385 hp (287 kW) and 385 lbf·ft (522 N·m) of torque, although independent dyno tests have shown that it produced rear-wheel output that nearly matched both of those numbers, suggesting the engine may have been under rated. As before, this model was designed to be a race ready high performance vehicle in a perfectly street legal package; as such, it lacked many of the comforts the base production line Cobra enjoyed. This model had no radio/audio equipment, no air conditioning, and no rear seat. Each of the 300 produced featured a charcoal interior with Recaro buckets and sporting a Performance Red exterior.

The limited edition 2000 Cobra R

The 2000 Cobra R had several distinguishing visual and performance features that allow one to easily identify it as something more than a normal 1999 or 2001 Cobra. The "power dome" hood for instance, is taller than the normal Cobra hood, and has gills that can be cut out to reduce engine compartment temperatures. The rear spoiler is tall and wide, providing much needed down force at track speeds. The 2000 Cobra R is equipped with Eibach springs that lower the car 1.5 inches in front and 1.0 inch out back. This model also uses Bilstein shocks and struts, Brembo 4-piston front calipers acting on 13 inch rotors cooled by large ducts, along with a race-style fuel cell that is clearly visible protruding under the V6-style rear diffuser. The front bumper is adorned with a low riding, removable front diffuser. The wheels are also uniquely styled silver five spoke 18-inch (460 mm) x 9.5-inch (240 mm) alloys wrapped in aggressive BF Goodrich G-Force KD tires. The hand built SVT engine employes special DOHC cylinder heads, a "Trumpet-style" intake manifold, aggressive camshafts, short tube headers, and connected to Cobra catalysts, a Bassani X-pipe, and a unique Borla dual side exiting exhaust system. This model also features 3.55 gears, a Gerodisc hydro-mechanical differential with speed and torque sensitivity, and a Tremec T-56 6 speed transmission that is closely geared for drag racing or road course usage. Despite these close ratios, the 2000 Cobra R also enjoyed a 175.3 mph (282 km/h) top speed.

With its sharp styling, stiff suspension, and overall aggressive engineering, SVT fulfilled the 2000 Cobra R's intent of a pure sport and track car.

"This limited-edition, 385-horse pony runs 12s and pulls 1.01g!... Our acceleration tests revealed steam catapult-like launches with 60 mph arriving in just 4.4 seconds... That compares favorably with the Corvette's 4.8-second run to 60 and 13.3 at 108.6 through the quarter mile." -Motor Trend April, 2000 Issue.

2003–2004

SN-95 2 Modular SVT Mustang Cobra (Supercharged)

Manufacturer	Ford Motor Company
Production	2003–2004 19,140 produced
Engine	390 HP 4.6 L supercharged DOHC Modular V8
Transmission	6-speed T-56 manual
Wheelbase	101.3 in (2,573 mm)
Length	183.5 in (4,661 mm)
Width	73.1 in (1,857 mm)
Height	SVT Cobra Coupe: 52.5 in (1,334 mm) SVT Cobra Convertible: 52.9 in (1,344 mm)
Curb weight	Coupe: 3,665 lb (1,662 kg) Convertible: 3,780 lb (1,715 kg)

Debuting in early 2002, the 2003 Cobra, codenamed "Terminator" by the SVT development crew, which quickly fell into common usage for the 2003/04 Cobra, came with a supercharged 4.6 L DOHC engine.Numerous improvements were made to the powertrain and driveline to handle the increase from the previous model year. A cast iron block was used instead of aluminum, with stronger internals, including forged Zolner pistons and Manley H-beam connecting rods that were modified with a wrist pin oiling hole by the SVT engine builders. These upgrades were critical in order to support the 8 psi (0.55 bar) of boost delivered from the stock Eaton M112 roots supercharger. Other improvements include the use of an aluminium flywheel connected to a Tremec T-56 six-speed transmission, 3.55:1 rear axle ratio and stronger 31 spline half shafts with revised upper and lower control arms. These modifications launched the Cobra from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and the quarter mile in the high 12's at over 110 mph (180 km/h). Some have gone as low as 12.4 seconds with a professional driver and good conditions in stock form.

Although many believe there was no 2002 Cobra, there was a very small release. There were only about 100 vehicles built, and they were all shipped to Australia. Other changes included additional lights in the lower bumper, and the steering wheel was moved to the right side of the car. 2002 Mustang Cobra

For 2003, SVT offered a limited-edition Tenth Anniversary Cobra which featured unique color paint scheme, split seven spoke gunmetal wheels, and red leather inserts in the seats.

The 2004 Cobra was much the same as the 2003 Cobra with a few minor updates, including new paint color options (Screaming Yellow, Competition Orange and Mystichrome, which featured seats with custom colored inserts), a slightly updated exhaust system, which helped to eliminate the Gas Guzzler Tax that the 2003 suffered, as well as some minor interior changes.

A definitive history of this model and John Coletti's SVT operations was captured in the non-fiction book Iron Fist, Lead Foot by Frank Moriarty.

2003 Cobra engine

Year	Model	Production
2003	Coupe	8,394
	Convertible	5,082
	Total	13,476
2004	Coupe	3,768
	Convertible	1,896
	Total	5,664
Total		19,140

References

General

• Mustang Cobra Mustang Cobra Information Supersite
• SVTPerformance.com SVT Owners and Enthusiasts online community
• 1993Cobra.com 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Enthusiasts online community
• "Official site". Ford SVT. http://www.svt.ford.com/. Retrieved march 8, 2006. 
• "SVT Owner Registry". Ford SVT. http://www.svtregistry.com/. Retrieved march 8, 2006. 
• CarandDriver.com Vehicle Performance Testing
• ironfistleadfoot.com 2003-4 Mustang Cobra Terminator development program information and photos

Specific

1. ^ "History of SVT". http://www.muscularmustangs.com/2005/svthistorypress.php. Retrieved 17-Jun-2010. 
2. ^ "How Stuff Works: The 1993 Ford Mustang Cobra". http://auto.howstuffworks.com/1987-1988-1989-1990-1991-1992-1993-ford-mustang11.htm. Retrieved 19-Jun-2010. 
3. ^ "1993 Cobra Specifications". http://www.1993cobra.com/data.htm. Retrieved 2010-07-17.