1979 Ford Mustang Cobra

The Cobra model was carried over from the Mustang II. Like all 1979 Mustangs, it featured an egg-crate style grille. The lower body of the Cobra was painted black, a non-functional hood scoop gave the Cobra an aggressive look, and the rear-window louvers were painted the body color.

The 1979 Mustang Cobra package was only available with the 3 door hatchback. It was a $1,200 upgrade.

The standard engine was the 2.3L turbo. The powerful little 2.3 liter turbo 4 cylinder engine was better than it sounded, only slightly less power than the V8. The only other engine available was that 5.0L V8.  Either engine got the Michelin tires and forged wheels and tuned suspension. A new sport exhaust with chrome tips completed the look. And if you wanted the Mustang version of the Trans am screaming chicken, you could order your own hood decal for an additional $78 on top.

The 1979 Cobra included the now familiar turbo hood scoop, aluminum wheels, blacked out lower bumper and side trim and rear quarter window louvers. The interior featured a sport upgrade including tachometer, and instrument cluster set.

Ford sold a total of 17,579 of these Cobras and there were rumors of the 2.3 liter engine becoming the direct replacement for the venerable V8.

1979 Cobra VIN