Ford Mustang (fourth generation)

Fourth-generation Mustang
Overview
Manufacturer	Ford
Production	October 15, 1993 – May 10, 2004[1][2]
Assembly	Dearborn, Michigan
Designer	Patrick Schiavone (exterior: 1990) Emeline King (interior: 1990) Doug Gaffka (facelift: 1996)[3][4]
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door convertible 2-door coupe
Layout	FR layout
Platform	Ford Fox-4 SN-95(1): 1994–1998 Ford Fox-4 SN-95(2): 1999–2004
Powertrain
Engine	3.8 L (232 cu in) OHV Essex V6 (1994-2004) 3.9 L (237 cu in) OHV Essex V6 (2004) 4.9 L (302 cu in) OHV Windsor V8 (1994-1995 GT) 5.8 L (351 cu in) OHV Windsor V8 (1995 Cobra R) 4.6 L (281 cu in) 2v SOHC Modular V8 (1996-2004 GT) 4.6 L (281 cu in) 4v DOHC Modular V8 (1996-2001 Cobra) 4.6 L (281 cu in) 4v DOHC SC Modular V8 (2003-2004 Cobra) 5.4 L (330 cu in) 4v DOHC Modular V8 (2000 Cobra R)
Transmission	T-5 5-speed manual (1994-2004 V6) World Class T-5 (5-speed manual) (1994-1995 GT & Cobra) T-45 5-speed manual (1996-1999 Cobra & 1996-2001 GT) TR-3550 5-speed manual (1995 Cobra R) TR-3650 5-Speed Manual (2001 Cobra & 2001-2004 GT) T-56 6-speed manual AODE 4-speed automatic (1994-1995 V6 & GT) 4R70W 4-speed automatic (1996-2004 V6 & GT)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	101.3 in (2,573 mm)[5]
Length	1994-1998: 181.5 in (4,610 mm)[5] 1994-1998 Cobra: 182.5 in (4,636 mm) 1999–2004: 183.2 in (4,653 mm) 1999–2004 Cobra: 183.5 in (4,661 mm)
Width	1994–98: 71.8 in (1,824 mm) 1999–2004: 73.1 in (1,857 mm)
Height	1994–96 coupe: 52.9 in (1,344 mm) in 1997–98 coupe & Cobra convertible: 53.2 in (1,351 mm) GT coupe, 1997–98 convertible & GT convertible: 53.4 in (1,356 mm) in 1994–96 GT convertible & Cobra: 53.3 in (1,354 mm) 1994–96 convertible: 53 in (1,346 mm) 1999–2004 coupe: 53.1 in (1,349 mm) 1999–2004 convertible & Cobra: 53.2 in (1,351 mm) 1999–2001 Cobra convertible: 53.3 in (1,354 mm) Mach 1: 52.4 in (1,331 mm) 2002–04 SVT Cobra coupe: 52.5 in (1,334 mm) 2002–04 SVT Cobra convertible: 52.9 in (1,344 mm)
Chronology
Predecessor	Ford Mustang (third generation)
Successor	Ford Mustang (fifth generation)

The fourth generation Ford Mustang is an automobile produced by American manufacturer Ford for the 1994 through 2004 model years. For 1994 the Ford Mustang underwent its first major redesign in fifteen years. The design, code named "SN-95" by Ford, was based on an updated version of the Fox platform. It featured styling by Bud Magaldi that incorporated some stylistic elements from the classic Mustangs.^[6] A convertible returned, but the notchback and hatchback body styles used in earlier Mustangs were not available.

Prior to the redesigned Mustang's launch, a two-seater show car was designed by Darrell Behmer and Bud Magali.^[7] Called the Mustang Mach III, it was shown at the 1993 North American International Auto Show in Detroit and hinted at what the new production Mustang would look like.^[7] The Mach III featured a supercharged 4.6 L DOHC V8 with 450 hp (336 kW; 456 PS). While this engine was not put into production, it hinted to the future use of Ford's Modular V8 in the Mustang, including the eventual use of a supercharged 4.6 L V8.^[8]

Mustang (1994–1998)

The base Mustang featured a 3.8 L OHV V6 mated to a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional AODE 4-speed automatic transmission. The V6 produced 145 hp (108 kW; 147 PS) at 4000 rpm and 215 lb·ft (292 N·m) of torque at 2500 rpm. For 1996, the base V6 gained five horsepower with a new powertrain control module (PCM), the EEC-V. The AODE transmission was replaced with the 4R70W 4-speed automatic transmission for 1996.

A 1994 Mustang convertible and the red interior of a V6 model. Other interior colors—such as black and beige—were also available.

Ford allocated $700 million to improve the Fox platform for the 1994 Mustang. Efforts were made to improve the car's handling as well as noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) conditions over the previous generation Mustang. The Mustang's front suspension makes use of MacPherson struts with longer lower control arms, new spindles, anti-roll bars, and other enhancements over 1993 and older Mustangs. In the rear, a four-bar link solid axle is used.^[9] The 1994 Mustang's standard rear axle ratio was 2.73:1, though this was later changed to 3.27:1. All Mustangs received standard four-wheel disc brakes, though anti-lock brakes (ABS) were optional.^[10]

Along with its new exterior, the 1994 Mustang received new interior styling. The Mustang's cabin featured a "dual-cockpit" layout that was adorned with contours and sweeping curves, similarly to other Fords of the time such as the Thunderbird. The 1994 Mustang offered many options, some of which later became standard equipment. The preferred equipment package came with power windows, mirrors, and door locks, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, and a trunk cargo net. Also available was Ford's Mach 460, 230-watt multi-speaker sound system with CD player. All 1994 Mustangs received standard three-point seat belts and dual front airbags.^[11] Also, the tail light design for 1996 changed from three horizontal strips to three vertical sections more in line with classic Mustang tradition. Production of this Mustang ran until October 1998.

Mustang GT

Building on the base Mustang, the Mustang GT was reintroduced for 1994, featuring higher performance and better handling than the base Mustang or its 1993 predecessor. Ford carried over the 302 CID Windsor pushrod small-block V8 engine (called the "5.0 L" although its capacity was 4.94 L) from the 1993 Mustang GT. Total output from the engine was 215 hp (160 kW; 218 PS) at 4200 rpm and 285 lb·ft (386 N·m) of torque at 3500 rpm. Mustang GTs could deliver zero to 60 mph (97 km/h) acceleration times in the mid-six second range and complete a quarter mile in about 15 seconds.^[9] The Mustang GT also featured a stiffer handling suspension, a 3.08:1 rear axle ratio (later changed to 3.27:1 or 3.55:1 depending on the transmission and model year), dual exhausts, and larger 16-inch (410 mm) wheels (compared to the base Mustang's 15-inch wheels). The 1994 Mustang GT was named Motor Trend Car of the Year.

For 1995, a one-year model referred to as the Mustang GTS was introduced. This was considered to be a "stripped down" version of the Mustang GT that included the performance parts of the GT model, but a minimum of non-performance related features.

In 1996, Ford dropped the 302 CID Windsor V8 that was in production since 1968^[12] and introduced the Modular 4.6 L SOHC V8. These engines were produced at two different plants, Windsor and Romeo. A "W" in the VIN 8th digit indicates a "Romeo" engine, while an "X" indicates a "Windsor".

The Windsor and Romeo have subtle differences. Valve cover bolt patterns are one. Romeo has fewer bolts than the Windsor. Another difference is the front cover bolts. The Windsor uses 8 mm and the Romeo uses 10 mm bolts. The Romeo uses jack screws on the main caps and the Windsor uses dowels. The new engine produced 215 hp (160 kW; 218 PS) at 4400 rpm and 285 lb·ft (386 N·m) of torque at 3500 rpm, matching the output of its predecessor. For 1998, the 4.6 L V8 received a small increase in output, resulting in 225 hp (168 kW; 228 PS) at 4750 rpm and 290 lb·ft (393 N·m) of torque at 3500 rpm. This was achieved through PCM calibration and a modified fuel system. Though capable of matching or exceeding the older 302 V8's output, the 4.6 L V8 was criticized for delivering inadequate performance, particularly against the larger displacement of the OHV V8 used in the Mustang's chief rival, the Chevrolet Camaro.^[13]

Mustang Cobra

Building on the performance of the Mustang GT, Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) developed an even higher performance car: the Mustang Cobra. In 1996 it was available in a special color package called the Mystic Cobra which consisted of a very expensive Chrom-a-lusion paint job like the Mysti-Chrome package on 2004 models. Only 2000 were produced.

The "New Edge" (1999–2004)

New Edge bodystyle Ford Mustang coupe

A redesigned SN-95 Mustang came in November 1998 for the 1999 model year. Characterizing the redesign was Ford's New Edge design language, which featured sharper contours, larger wheel arches, and creases in the bodywork, replacing many of the soft lines of the previous model. The Mustang also received new wheels and hubcaps. However, the car carried over the same roof line and interior, in addition to the same basic platform. All 1999 Mustangs (except the Cobra) received "35th-Anniversary" badges on the front fenders.^[14][15]

A "35th Anniversary Limited Edition" appearance option package came on 2,318 GT coupes and 2,310 GT convertibles.^[16] Available only in black, silver metallic, white, and red, they featured a body-colored hood scoop, rear spoiler, side scoops and rocker panels, a blacked-out panel between the taillamps, and 17 by 8-inch (200 mm) five-spoke aluminum wheels; while the Interiors included black leather and vinyl seats with silver inserts and pony logo, aluminum shift knob, a unique instrument cluster with 35th anniversary script, silver and black floor mats with 35th anniversary logo, and silver door trim inserts.^[17]

The 3.8 L OHV Essex V6 returned as the base engine for 1999. A new split-port induction system replaced single-port induction, which increased the base model's output to 190 hp (142 kW; 193 PS) @ 5250 rpm and 220 lb·ft (298 N·m) of torque @ 2750 rpm.^[18] In 2001, Ford added Intake Manifold Runner Control (IMRC) which further increased the engine's output to 193 hp (144 kW; 196 PS) at 5500 rpm and 225 lb·ft (305 N·m) of torque @ 2800 rpm.^[19] During the second half of the 2004 model year, the 3.8 L Essex was replaced with the 3.9 L OHV Essex V6. The 3.9 L had a slightly longer stroke but output for the engine remained identical to the outgoing 3.8 L. The 3.9 L Essex only served in the Mustang for 1/2 a year before being replaced by the 4.0 L Cologne V6 in 2005.

2001 Ford Mustang Premium

2002 Ford Mustang Cobra convertible

The GT model continued to use the 4.6 L V8 as before, but now with 260 hp (194 kW; 264 PS)5250 rpm and 302 lb·ft (409 N·m) of torque @ 4000 rpm.^[20] They featured new "Performance Improvement" (PI) heads, cams, and intake manifold; thus becoming a modification for previous NPI "Non Performance Improvement" 4.6 L cars. Mustangs now featured a returnless type fuel system utilizing a PCM-guided fuel rail pressure sensor to regulate pressure. The Mustang GT was now capable of low 14 second 1/4 mile ETs with 96+ mph trap speeds compared to the 1998 GT's upper-14 second ETs and 91-93 mph trap speeds.^[21]

For 1999, the Mustang also received a change to its taillights, making them edgier, with sharp corners and straight lines as opposed to the rounded off style of previous years. The lamps were still composed of three vertical segments, reminiscent of the original. A six CD player head unit was made available.

Mustang Cobra (1999, 2001, and 2003–2004)

The Cobra model returned for 1999 with its 32-valve 4.6 L V8, now rated at 320 hp (239 kW; 324 PS) at 6000 rpm and 317 lb·ft (430 N·m) of torque @ 4750 rpm.

Special editions

In 2000, a unique trim level called the "Spring Feature Edition" was available on GT models. Offered only in Performance Red, Laser Red, Black, Silver, White, or Zinc Yellow, the Spring Feature package contained 17" x 8" performance wheels and tires, a body-colored hood scoop, body-colored side scoops, two black "GT" stripes on the hood, and black "Mustang" inserts on the embossed bumper. Ford produced 3,091 Spring Feature GTs.^[22]

In 2001, the Special Edition Bullitt was released to the public. Available only as coupe, the Bullitt was a mildly upgraded version of the standard GT. Factory upgrades included with a lowered suspension (3/4 inch), subframe connectors (used on the convertible models), Tokico shocks, and brakes from the Cobra (13 in front, 11.7 in rear). The car also received an upgraded exhaust and a re-designed intake. These power upgrades led to a factory rating of 265 hp (198 kW), a gain of five horsepower over the standard GT. On the exterior, the car received unique Torq-Thrust style wheels, removal of the fog lights and rear deck spoiler, as well as new trim accents. It was available in three colors: Dark Highland Green, True Blue, and Black.

The success of the 2001 Bullitt led to the production of a second special edition, the 2003 to 2004 Mach 1. The Mach 1 was equipped with a 4.6 L DOHC 305 hp (227 kW) engine based on the engine available in the 1999 and 2001 Mustang Cobras, with new cylinder heads from the 2003 to 2004 Cobra (see below). The interior of the car was given a retro theme with seats made to look like the "comfort-weave" seats available in the 1960s-era Match 1s. It also featured retro themed gauges and a unique aluminum shifter ball. On the vehicle's exterior, a Mach 1 package was applied, as well as a functional Shaker scoop, a unique 3-tier hood, decals set on the hood, rocker/door panels, a special chin spoiler, a flat black-rear-spoiler, Magnum 500 style wheels, and a redesigned C-pillar. The car also received similar suspension upgrades as the Bullitt.

In 2004, Ford produced a special 40th Anniversary Edition of the Mustang. As an $895 option available in both Standard and GT editions, coupe or convertible, it consisted of 40th Anniversary badging, enhanced interior with "40th Anniversary" floor mats, painted folding exterior mirrors from the Cobra models, a tan cloth convertible top (instead of canvas), Arizona Beige painted "Bullitt" wheels, and Arizona Beige stripes on the hood, trunk and lower bodysides. The anniversary package was available in Crimson Red (exclusive to package), Oxford White or black. Ford produced 4,558 Crimson Red models. Crimson Red, Ford paint code "FX", was also called Merlot on several other Ford models from the 2002 through 2008 model years. Most 40th Anniversary package cars came with Parchment (tan) leather interiors. Some came with black leather. This is possibly a Canadian variation. This possible Canada-only variation also features 2003 Cobra wheels, no hood stripes and 'Mustang' decals on the lower-body side panels under the doors. Other than two pre-production units, all Crimson Red vehicles were built from August through November 2003. Forty-one of the Crimson Red cars were sent to Roush Industries for conversions into Roush Mustangs. It marked the end of this design of the Mustang, as 2005 ushered in an all-new model. 40th Anniversary Editions were also produced in Screaming Yellow.^[23]

Ford celebrated its 100th Anniversary in June 2003, and made limited edition F-Series Super Duty trucks, Explorers, Taurus, Focus, and Mustang GTs to commemorate the event. The 100th Anniversary models only came in black, and included Premium Verona-grain Imola leather seating surfaces in two-tone parchment, and the Mustang got the GT premium package which included 17" wheels, anti-lock brakes and traction control; dual exhaust; power driver's seat with power lumbar support; leather-wrapped steering wheel; and Mach 1000 or Mach 460 AM/FM Stereo with six-disc CD changer, as well as 100th Anniversary badges on the fender and decklid and embossed on the seats. The Centennial Package was a $995 upgrade.^[24]

Right-hand drive conversion

In 2001, Ford Australia undertook a two-year project of importing and marketing the Mustang in Australia. $4million was allocated for the conversion of 250 units. The car was not designed for right-hand drive markets and for complying with Australian Design Rules. Tickford Engineering was contracted to engineer the conversion to the right-hand-drive and to meet Australian Design Rules, including the fitment of auxiliary high beam headlamps in the front bumper and side turn signal repeaters as well as taillamps with amber turn signal indicators.^[25] In total, just 377 Mustangs were sold in Australia between 2001-2003.^[26]

For promotional purposes, Ford Racing Australia built a Mustang V10 convertible, which was powered by a Ford Modular 6.8-Litre V10 engine from the American F truck series but with an Australian-made supercharger.^[27]

Engine output summary

† supercharged

References

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