13k Original Miles: 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra

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I’ve always said that if money were no object and I had the chance to park a 1990s classic in my garage, the 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra would be my first choice. I have always liked the styling of these vehicles, and the SVT enhancements gave these cars excellent performance by the standards of the day. This 1993 Cobra is a stunning survivor, boasting a genuine 13,000 miles on its odometer. It appears to need nothing, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Michell G. for spotting this fabulous Ford listed here on Low Miles No Miles in Westville, New Jersey. You could take it home for $64,500.

The Fox-Body Mustang entered its final production year in 1993, with this generation surviving far longer than Ford anticipated. It suffered a sales slump in the mid-1980s, but plans for a replacement were soon shelved due to buyer backlash when Ford revealed a front-wheel-drive platform for its projected new model. The Fox-Body rallied as a result, still selling in respectable numbers in 1993. Ford planned a last hurrah for the badge, tasking SVT with the role of developing what many viewed as a car that would serve as a suitable finale. The result was the SVT Cobra, with 4,993 leaving the factory before production ended. Of those, 1,775 were ordered in Vibrant Red Clearcoat, as found on this car. This paint shade was the second most popular choice, with Black just pipping it at the post. Faulting its presentation is seemingly impossible, with no evidence of cosmetic shortcomings in the excellent selection of listing images. The paint retains a healthy shine, the panels are laser-straight, and the distinctive aero additions aren’t cracked or damaged. The beautiful 17″ alloy wheels aren’t stained or damaged, and this Mustang also features a glass sunroof.

It is fair to say that SVT performed some of its best work with the 1993 Cobra. It breathed new life into Ford’s aging 5.0-liter V8, equipping it with a wide selection of upgrades that squeezed out impressive power and torque by the standards of the day. These improvements included GT40 cylinder heads, an updated engine management system, larger-capacity injectors, an improved intake, and a unique exhaust. Ford quoted official power and torque figures of 230hp and 304 ft/lbs, but those who slipped behind the wheel of one of these classics seemed to share the opinion that the actual output numbers were significantly higher. All Cobras left the factory with a five-speed manual transmission, power assistance for the steering and the four-wheel disc brakes, and upgraded springs and Tokico shocks. The seller doesn’t mention any mechanical modifications, although the engine wears a different air cleaner assembly. Whether the original is included is unclear, but that is a question worth asking if investment potential is a key consideration. We’re also kept in the dark regarding this car’s mechanical health, although I see nothing suggesting that the news will be anything but good.

Ford offered 1993 Cobra buyers a choice of three interior trim types, regardless of which paint shade they selected. This car features Opal leather and is 1-of-1,000 cars featuring that trim and paint combination. It is another aspect of the vehicle that appears unmolested, retaining its factory radio/cassette player. Other factory features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, and a driver’s airbag. The only criticism that I can level at the interior is that the door pockets are suffering the typical sagging that comes with age. Rectifying the fault is a relatively straightforward DIY task for those with patience. Otherwise, the leather shows no evidence of deterioration, the dash hasn’t suffered at the hands of UV exposure, and the plastic is free from noticeable cracks.

If this 1993 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra had appeared on Barn Finds two years ago, I would have had no hesitation in saying that the seller’s price was appropriate for a classic of this caliber. Its presentation is excellent, and with no visible modifications beyond the updated air cleaner assembly, it appears to be a genuine survivor. Unfortunately, the 1993 SVT Cobra has declined significantly in the classic market over the past year, and values are continuing to fall slowly. That makes the figure borderline, although if values climb again, the buyer could smell like a rose. Therefore, it represents a roll of the dice as an investment proposition. However, sometimes it isn’t about the money, but about the joy that a classic provides. If you harbor those feelings, this could be the car for you.

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Comments

  1. RayTMember

    Not sure the SVT ‘Stang would be my first choice, Adam, but with an unlimited checkbook, why stop with just one car?

    I’d definitely have one, though. Maybe even this one, though I’d be a little wary of the perishable components before driving it the way it can — and should — be driven. In my hands, the mileage would increase. Rapidly.

    This is Peak Fox-body, in my opinion. Well, almost, as the “R” model was cooler, if a bit more challenging to drive. I’ve been lucky enough to drive both, and either would suit me just fine.

    In an unlimited-dollar world, “my” SVT would be Teal (except if I found an “R,” which was available only in Red as I recall) with the Gray interior, but Red will do just fine.

    Like 4
  2. Bob_in_TN Bob_in_TNMember

    Good write-up Adam. I will second RayT’s comments. Peak Fox Body (including the R), have really come into prominence over recent years, and Teal is also my favorite.

    Like 2
  3. Mike StephensStaff

    It’s interesting that both Ray and Bob mentioned the teal color. When I was at the Ford dealer, ready to buy a Mustang in 1993, there were several colors to choose from. I narrowed it down to red and teal, and each of the two cars had almost the same equipment and MSRP. I only chose red because of concern that the teal might not age as well in terms of desirability in the future, but fast forward to now, and I have to agree it might be my all-time favorite Fox Mustang color. Are we now in the days where an SVT Cobra, as well kept and with as low mileage as this one, will fetch $64,500? Probably. Great post, Adam, thanks for sharing this one with us!

    Like 3
  4. Driveinstile DriveinstileMember

    This is one sweet Mustang. I can’t add anything to the above already mentioned by Mike, Ray, or Bob. Other than, yep…… You guessed it. I want teal lol. Actually I Iike the red too. It looks spotless. Love it!!! Great write up Adam, and Eagle eyes Mitchel G.

    Like 3
  5. Stan StanMember

    Black 91′ – 93′ LX Hatchbacks always looked mean on the streets.

    Like 4
  6. Tom71MustangsMember

    Sweet ride. Seems odd that at this price point, they didn’t return the CAI and tinted lenses back to stock.

    Like 2
    • Bob_in_TN Bob_in_TNMember

      I agree Tom. For those interested in low-mileage Cobras, being as close as possible to stock can be an important consideration.

      Like 2
  7. Sailbad_the_Sinner Sailbad_the_SinnerMember

    You’d take this over a ‘70 Boss 429, Adam? Come on…

    Like 1
  8. Sailbad_the_Sinner Sailbad_the_SinnerMember

    You’d take this over a ‘70 Boss 429, Adam? Come on…

    Like 0
  9. Mark

    Get rid of the duralast battery and put a motorcraft battery in it.

    Like 0

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