| 1999 Cobra Press Release |
SVT took the public wraps off a new 1999 SVT Mustang Cobra model in Las Vegas at the annual Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show last November to acclaim. The sport coupe goes into production in early February, and SVT-certified Ford dealers can begin delivering the cars to customers as soon as they arrive, possibly as early as the end of February.
The revamped sports car now features a sophisticated independent rear suspension (IRS), all-speed traction control and a new exterior design that strongly recalls the original styling of the first Mustang.
"With its new independent rear suspension, the SVT Cobra breaks away from other 'pony cars' in this segment -- a segment named for the first Mustang, in fact," said Janine Bay, chief program engineer for the SVT Cobra. "The ride and handling characteristics Cobra offers are world class in every respect."
A sophisticated IRS is standard on SVT Cobra for the first time. Due to its modular design, both IRS and solid-axle suspensions can be used under the same chassis with no chassis modifications. The Cobra IRS is a self-contained bolt-in design that attaches to the existing rear suspension hardpoints.
An isolated, welded tubular steel subframe provides the mounting points for upper and lower control arms, tie rods for toe control, stabilizer bar and differential. The entire rear suspension, including the limited-slip 3.27 aluminum differential, arrives at the assembly plant pre-assembled for high quality.
Significant ride and handling benefits accrue from IRS. The response from power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and on-center feel are improved. Less road noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) are transmitted to the interior. The SVT Cobra's handling is especially improved on uneven or bumpy road surfaces. Other benefits include significantly reduced rear-end lift under hard braking and a rear track widened by 1.2 inches.
The new SVT Cobra is powered by a 4.6-liter four-valve tumble-port V-8. The engine produces 316 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 316 pounds-feet of torque at 4,750 rpm, an increase of 11 horsepower and 16 pounds-feet of torque over last year's powerplant.
New intake port geometry and a new combustion chamber design create a tumbling air/fuel charge that improves engine efficiency and performance. Its coil-on-plug ignition system provides a high-energy spark in the combustion chamber for improved burn characteristics. More precise control of potential detonation is made possible by use of a new differential linear knock sensor, replacing the former resonant knock sensor. Engine durability is improved through the use of new aluminum upper main, upper thrust and rod bearings. The stainless steel dual exhaust system is standard equipment.
The standard and only transmission offered in the car is a T45 five-speed manual gearbox. A new, upgraded 11-inch clutch accommodates the increased engine torque while reducing clutch pedal effort. Clutch pedal travel is decreased to improve ease and functional smoothness of operation. An effective all-speed traction control system is standard equipment on all 1999 SVT Mustang Cobra sports cars.
Stylistically, the '99 SVT Cobra goes into the future while remaining in touch with the past. Thin aerodynamic headlamps and unique round fog lamps highlight the front end. The all-new exterior has many design cues reminiscent of the first Mustang, a car still popular today. The modified vertical taillight bars feature a yellow lens and recall the original Mustang models. The front and rear fascias and side cladding are unique to the SVT Cobra and underscore its muscular nature. The trunk lid is durable, lightweight sheet molded compound.
The list of standard equipment is as long as it is diverse. The seats, shift knob and steering wheel are leather-trimmed, and the front seats are comfortable and supportive sport buckets. The driver's seat offers standard six-way power adjustment. Tilt steering wheel and power windows, mirrors, door locks and trunk release are included.
Other important standard equipment items encompass power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, all-speed Traction Control System with on/off switch, SecuriLock™ passive anti-theft system, remote keyless entry, speed control and high-end Mach 460 electronic AM/FM/Cassette and Compact Disc Player system.
Ford Specialty Vehicles Marketing Manager Tom Scarpello announced that the '99 Mustang Cobra Coupe would have a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $27,995, including a destination and delivery charge of $535. The MSRP for the Cobra Convertible is $31,995, also including the destination and delivery charge of $535. Fifty-five percent of Cobra production will be coupes and 45 percent will be convertibles.
The sole option offered for the Cobra is a rear deck spoiler for $195.
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