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Ford Mustang (1979–93)
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1980 Ford Mustang Cobra.jpg

Ford Mustang. 1979–93 (prod. n/a). 2- and 3-door coupé, 2-door convertible. F/R, 2302 cm³ (I4 OHC), 2792, 3797 cm³ (V6 OHV), 3273 cm³ (I6 OHV), 4186, 4942 cm³ (V8 OHV). Departure from Mustang II, now using Fox platform (shared with Ford Fairmont). More efficient, especially in energy-conscious 1970s, with better aerodynamics (Cd 0,44 for the hatch; 0,46 for the notchback—both creditable in 1979), and no omission of a V8 from the start. Lighter than II, despite growing in dimensions. Three engines for 1979: 2·3, Köln 2·8 and 4·9, before the middle engine was replaced by the American 3·3. Turbo 2·3 also offered. Three suspension settings, too, depending on market ambition: standard, handling and special. Smaller V8 offered from 1980 to lower CAFE figure, but with 10 hp lost, though larger unit returned for 1982, and eventually replaced 4·2; 3·8 replaced 3·3. Facelift in 1983, with convertible added that model year; SVO added in 1984, with 175–205 hp from turbocharged four. Multi-port fuel injection for V8 in 1986. More aerodynamic appearance for 1987 as the “aero look” became dominant in Ford styling, and as buyers continued to support the Mustang over a proposed, front-wheel-drive, Mazda-based replacement (which became the Ford Probe Mk I). V6 discontinued that year, leaving only the four and the V8. Equipment and performance upgrades thereafter, with SVT Cobra offered 1993, with 235 hp from 4·9 V8. Twinned with Mercury Capri (1979–86).


Manufacturing locations: Dearborn, Michigan, USA; San Jose, California, USA

Marque: Ford | Model: Ford Mustang | Predecessor: Ford Mustang II | Successor: Ford Mustang (1994–8)

 

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Out now: Autocade Yearbook 2024