There are many reasons why someone might buy a classic, but the seller admits they were drawn to this 1978 Ford Mustang II King Cobra by its interior. It features striking Orange plaid trim that is in good condition. The car presents as an honest survivor, and after a recent mechanical inspection, it is a turnkey proposition. The seller has listed the King Cobra here on eBay in Payson, Utah, with bidding currently below the reserve at $12,300. However, there is also a BIN option of $17,000 for those wishing to bypass the auction process.
With the Fox-Body Mustang on the horizon for its 1979 release, Ford upped the ante in 1978 and let the Mustang II bow out with dignity. It introduced the King Cobra as a limited edition with a production run of 4,313 cars. It was a cosmetic package that added a front spoiler, stripes, and a Cobra hood decal that gave Pontiac’s iconic Screaming Chicken a run for its money. This car also features color-matched window louvers for a distinctive look. The seller added 15″ alloy wheels from a ’93 Mustang, but the beautiful, original Lacy alloys are included. They are candid about this four-owner classic’s condition, admitting that close inspection will reveal marks and chips in the Tangerine paint and minor bumps and bruises on the panels. However, it retains a healthy shine and looks very presentable. Some decals show age-related deterioration, as expected. That isn’t the end of the world, since complete decal kits retail for under $350 and would fix that. The car is rust-free, and with no air conditioning, many potential buyers will appreciate the glass T-Roof.
This King Cobra is powered by a 302ci V8, paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. I’ve written a lot about Malaise Era motors and how power and torque dropped as manufacturers fought to comply with emissions regulations. This V8 is a perfect example, delivering 133hp and 243 ft/lbs of torque. Both figures are lower than those produced by the same motor hooked to the four-speed manual, meaning that performance is quite leisurely. That’s the bad news, but every cloud has a silver lining. The seller recently had the car thoroughly mechanically inspected, confirming it is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives well. They include an embedded video in their listing with the V8 running, and it sounds as smooth as silk.
The first owner’s decision to order this King Cobra with orange plaid trim won’t appeal to everyone, but it is what drew the seller to this classic. What impresses me is the condition: the seat cloth shows no significant wear, and the door trims are excellent. I doubt the back seat has seen much action, though the plastic in that area is beginning to show age-related deterioration. The dash and pad are impressive, and the console is, too. There are no visible aftermarket additions, with the car retaining its original AM/FM radio/cassette player.
I haven’t had many opportunities to feature a 1978 Ford Mustang II King Cobra, but to have two appear on my desk in quick succession is a treat. The King Cobra I featured yesterday drew many comments, especially regarding its eye-watering price. This one’s BIN is literally 25% of the previous car and is undoubtedly more realistic. If you are on the hunt for a ’78 King Cobra, would this car tempt you more than the last one?
Two King Cobras in one day, nice work Adam. As noted, this one isn’t as nice, but it looks like a reasonable survivor. That orange plaid interior is the definition of period-correct. I’d go back with the original wheels. The automatic transmission would not be my first choice. It already has a five figure bid.
Upgrade this and that and just enjoy it.
I didn’t know you could get a King Cobra with a plaid interior. I’m sure whether the original owner ordered this, or found it on the showroom floor, they just had to have it. This one has a more reasonable price, and I’d be willing to wager would probably sell quicker too. I would only change the rims, back to stock, which is just my personal preference. But otherwise, clean it up and enjoy it!!! Nice one Adam. Thank you.
You guys really need a proofreader. Yesterday you stated the engine made 139HP (which is correct), today it’s 133HP. What will it be tomorrow?