2003 Ford Mustang

2003 Ford Mustang Cobra Convertible 1 of 1095 Debuting in the spring of 2002, the 2003 Cobra came with a supercharged, 32-valve DOHC, 4.6-liter V8 engine rated at 390 hp (291 kW) and 390 lb ft (530 N m) of torque.22 Code-named Terminator by the SVT development crew led by John Coletti,18:22 numerous improvements were made to the powertrain and driveline to handle the power increase from the previous models set-up. A cast-iron block was used, instead of the previous Teksid aluminum unit, with stronger internals including Zollner pistons and forged Manley H-beam connecting rods that were modified with a wrist pin oiling hole by the SVT engineers.22 These upgrades were critical in order to support the 8 psi (0.55 bar) of boost delivered from the stock Eaton M-112 roots-type supercharger.22 Other improvements included the use of a lightweight aluminum flywheel connected to a Tremec T-56 six-speed transmission, 3.55:1 rear axle ratio, and stronger 31-spline halfshafts with revised upper and lower control arms.22 These modifications enabled the Cobra to go 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and do the quarter mile in 12.67 seconds at 110.11 mph.1:152 Although electronically-governed to a top speed of 153 mph, a factory-stock Terminator Cobra can reach a top speed of just under 180 mph if the governor is removed. The 2003 Cobra boasted visual and functional improvements designed by Camilo Pardo, the chief designer of the 2005 2006 Ford GT supercar.18:24 5 These exterior differences included a new front fascia with an integrated spoiler and front brake air ducts, a new rear fascia with a black insert which visually integrated the exhaust pipes, a composite hood with dual functional heat extractors, newly designed side scoops, and foldable side-view mirrors painted in the matching body color.18:26 30 The side skirts were designed specifically for the Terminator Cobra body kit, featuring a smooth body line from the door to the bottom of the car.