Future cobra owner, maybe

[smcget]

HI, first timer here, and apologies in advance for what may seem like a dumb question, but I'm weighing a Mustang GT vs. a Cobra and was wondering whether premium gas is required or recommended on the Cobra? Also, this is probably an easy one for you folks; considering the higher initial cost, insurance, etc., is it really that much better to own a Cobra than a GT. I can guess your answers, but am really looking for the pros and cons. Thanks, much.

[tcrews]

From what I've seen, insurance isn't that big (or any) of a difference between the two (depending on insurance company) and you get the 4V engine vs. the 2V engine (320 hp vs. 260 hp), the Independent Rear Suspension (IRS), you get better brakes, and a few other misc. things on the Cobra that you don't get on the GT.

Is it worth the difference in price between the two??? Yes but that's still up to you. You have a stronger car to start with and it has a more potential.

The Cobra will require premium gas (91 minimum) while the GT requires 87 octane.

Depending on what year Cobra you are looking at as well....the '03/'04 Cobra has 390 bhp (underrated) which is significantly higher than the 260 bhp the GT has.

96-98 Cobra - 305 bhp / 96-98 GT - 215 bhp
01- Cobra - 320 bhp / 01-04 GT - 260 bhp
03-04 Cobra - 390 bhp

[smcget]

thanks for the info; assuming horsepower is the same on '02 and '03 Cobra (did I miss '02)? Are there any years to stay away from? Also, nobody wants to drive a Cobra in the snow, but if you had to, would the independent rear suspension help with traction?

[flynfink]

There was no 2002 model..

The 1999 is generally thought to be the bad one. After Ford did the fix, they have good HP and torque #'s.

the 2001 and the 1999 are essentially the same w/ the 01' having more supportive seats and more splines on the rear half shafts (and came from the factory w/ the "fix")

The IRS cars would definitly be better in low tractions situations. My 99 (irs) rides better and is has much more traction capabilites than my son's 94 (solid axle)

That help?

[smcget]

yes, and thanks for all the info!