Pros :
- Insane power and performance.
- Improved handling.
- No known competitors in its price range.
- 6-speed manual shifter.
- Luxury interior with leather-everything and power-everything.
Cons :
- Little to visually differentiate old model from new.
- Whining supercharger may put off Mustang purists.
- Very heavy.
- Highly unrefined.
- Tight back seat.
Interior :
Press Coverage :
Beginning with the original in 1993, every generation of the SVT Mustang Cobra has elevated its standard of performance. Now, the 2003 SVT Mustang Cobra raises the bar yet again, this time increasing power output to a level never before achieved in a production Mustang. The addition of a Roots-type supercharger and water-to-air intercooler to the Cobra's 4.6-liter, DOHC 4-valve V-8 engine bumps output to 390 horsepower and 390 foot-pounds of torque.
The 2003 SVT Mustang Cobra's 4.6-liter, DOHC V-8 is equipped with an Eaton supercharger and new aluminum alloy cylinder heads that provide increased flow capabilities. The engine produces 390 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 390 foot-pounds of torque at 3,500 rpm, compared with the 2001 model's 320 hp at 6,000 rpm and 317 foot-pounds of torque at 4,750 rpm.
To provide strength necessary for the substantially increased torque output, the new Cobra engine is built on a cast-iron block. This unit contains the carryover forged-steel crankshaft, which is fitted with new Manley forged "H-beam" connecting rods, forged pistons similar to those in the SVT F-150 Lightning, and an aluminum flywheel similar to the 2000 SVT Mustang Cobra R's.
The engine is mated to a TTC T-56 6-speed manual transmission. Behind that, an aluminum drive shaft with upgraded universal joints connects to the rear axle, which now has a 3.55:1 gear ratio.
The SVT Mustang Cobra's independent rear suspension system receives upgraded bushings and an additional tubular cross-brace for 2003, necessary for increased loading due to the higher power output and larger tires. The Cobra coupe's springs have higher rates compared with 2001, increased from 500 lb./in. to 600 lb./in. at the front, and from 470 lb./in. to 600 lb./in. on the rear springs. In a departure from past practice, the Cobra convertible receives its own individual suspension tuning to suit the unique characteristics of its convertible body. The convertible's front spring rates are 500 lb./in., and the rear springs are 470 lb./in.
The 2003 SVT Cobra is equipped with gas-charged monotube Bilstein dampers at all four corners, and the pad material on the rear brakes has been upgraded for enhanced durability and brake performance.
Exterior design changes distinguish the SVT Mustang Cobra from the regular production Mustang GT. While it retains the SVT-signature round fog lamps, the front fascia is more aggressive looking, and also helps to deliver more air to the engine compartment. The hood also has been redesigned, and now has flow-through scoops that help vent hot air from the engine compartment. Both the hood and rear deck are made of lightweight composite materials. Showing that SVT appreciates even the smallest details, the windshield wipers feature an aerodynamic "wing" to help keep the blades planted at speeds up to 130 mph.
At the sides, the rocker panels have been reshaped with simple, clean vertical surfaces. Color-keyed, foldaway outside mirrors are unique to Cobra, and the side scoops have new, horizontal fins to match those in the hood scoops. The rear deck lid features an integrated spoiler with an LED center high-mounted stop lamp.
The convertible model has a new, high-quality cloth top material, which not only adds to the top's durability, but also helps provide better sound insulation for the interior.
Inside, new front bucket seats are designed to provide enhanced support for both comfortable cruising and spirited driving. Seating surfaces have Nudo leather trim and Preferred suede inserts. The driver's seat has standard six-way power, plus new power-adjustable thigh and side bolsters, and power lumbar support. Switches for these new controls are in an easy-to-reach location on the right-front corner of the seat.
Additional SVT Mustang Cobra standard features include a leather-wrapped steering wheel; leather boots for the shift and parking brake levers; tilt steering wheel; power windows, mirrors, door locks and trunk release; the SecuriLock passive anti-theft system; remote keyless entry; speed control; and a MACH 460 audio system with AM/FM stereo and an in-dash, six-disc CD player.
Ford.com
No matter how hard I try, I just can’t get into this car. What’s unfortunate is that the SVT Cobra has loads of potential: neck-snapping power and a surprisingly well-balanced chassis. But the overall package just makes me want to get out after 20 minutes. The seats are really uncomfortable; the seatbacks are too soft and the entire seat is too narrow. The steering is an absolute mess, and the clutch a nightmare. It’s like you’re driving a heavy-duty pickup. There are plenty of cars with more power than this, with clutches nowhere near this leg-breaking. And the shift linkage isn’t much better. On the positive side, there is an awesome amount of power and torque, which allows you to throttle steer at will. This car could be a lot of fun, if only it was refined a little more.
Autoweek.com
History:
2001-2002 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra
4,601 cc / 325 hp / 317 lb-ft / 3413 lbs / 0-60 mph 5.0 sec.
All images and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. No part of this website may be reproduced without the explicit permission of the owner of this site.
