1999 Ford Mustang GT
Like the rest of the 1999 model year Mustangs, the Mustang GT got a visual upgrade. Gone were many of the soft lines of the early SN-95s and in was an altogether more aggressive looking muscle car. New crisper looking headlights and a restyled side profile looked forward, yet at the same time brought back some elements of classic mustang cars of the 60’s and 70’s. Known as “New Edge” Mustang it these sharp design lines gave the Mustang a more aggressive stance.
The GT got the same 4.6 liter modular V8 as the prior year but the engine was more powerful. Now with 260 hp @ 5,250 rpm and 300 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm it was up from 225 hp and 285 lbs of torque. Ford added new higher lift, longer duration camshafts, bigger valves, improved and increased intake airflow and revised the combustion changers which improves fuel economy, emissions and power.
Power is put to the ground via a 5 speed manual transmission that is very positive, but a little notchy. Power is delivered to a standard limited slip rear axle, which is enhanced by optional ($230) switchable all speed traction control. Stopping is done via large 4 wheel discs (ventilated front) with standard antilock.
Ford also did their homework on the chassis dynamics. There were improvements in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) and improved steering feel with a turning circle reduction to under 38 feet. The rear track has was widened by 1.4 inches with a 1.5 inch increase in jounce travel.
On the inside, the Mustang sports a very complete instrument package in a double cowl design. Under the driver’s cowl are a medium sized speedo and tach left and right with four ancillary gauges for fuel, temp, oil pressure and voltage group in pairs flanking the main gauges.
A base model stickers for $16,995 with destination charges of $525. Standard equipment includes AC, power windows, locks, truck release, am/fm stereo with a CD and cassette, tilt, four wheel disc brakes and alloy wheels.
Specifications
Price $16,995 to about $32,000 (a 320 hp Cobra convertible)
Engines
3.8L OHV V6 190 hp @ 5,250 rpm, 220 lbs-ft of torque @ 2,750 rpm
4.6L SOHC V8 260 hp @ 5,259 rpm, 302 lbs-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
4.6L DOHC 32 valve V8 320 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 317 lbs-ft of torque @ 4,750 rpm
Transmission
5 speed manual
4 speed electronically controlled automatic
Configuration
front engine
rear wheel drive
Dimensions
Wheelbase 101.3 inches
Length 183.2 inches
Width 73.1 inches
Height 53.1 inches
Weight 3273 pounds
Track (front/rear) 59.9/60.1 inches
Trunk Capacity 10.9 cubic feet
Fuel Capacity 15.7 gallons
PERFORMANCE
0-60 5.8 seconds
50-70 3.3 seconds
50-70 up hill 4.4 seconds
Top Speed Reported at near 140 mph, but its a lot more relaxed near 70 mph (you pick which side)
Fuel Economy
EPA 17/24 city/highway, my estimate us 20-21 mpg in El Dorado County, 24- 26 mpg on the highway
at legal speeds
