Generation IV: 1994 – 2004
1994: For its 30th anniversary, Mustang is dramatically restyled to evoke the car’s heritage and performance tradition. Fully 1,330 of the vehicle’s 1,850 parts are changed. The new FOX-4 platform is thoroughly re-engineered and structurally stiffer. The hatchback bodystyle is dropped, leaving the two-door coupe and convertible. The GT’s 5.0-liter V-8 engine produces 215 hp. An SVT Mustang Cobra is launched mid-year, producing 240 hp from its upgraded 5.0-liter V-8.
1995: The final model year for the venerable 5.0-liter V-8, which began life as the 260- and later 289-cid small-block engines. The second SVT Mustang Cobra R is introduced – 250 units, street legal but meant for racing – with a 300-hp, 5.8-liter V-8 and five-speed manual transmission.
1996: Mustang GTs and SVT Mustang Cobras are for the first time equipped with Ford’s 4.6-liter modular V-8 engine, which uses overhead cams to open the intake and exhaust valves. The Cobra’s 4.6-liter dual-overhead cam (DOHC) aluminum V-8 produces 305 hp.
1997: Ford’s Passive Anti-Theft System (PATS) becomes standard on all models.
1998: Output of the Mustang GT’s 4.6-liter V-8 is increased to 225 hp.
1999: A redesign gives Mustang sharply creased lines and pronounced wheel arch flares, plus a new hood, grille, fascias and lamps. The base 3.8-liter V-6 gets a 27 percent increase in horsepower, to 190 hp, and comes with 35th Anniversary badging. The SVT Mustang Cobra becomes the first Mustang with a fully independent rear suspension. The car’s 4.6-liter DOHC V-8 now produces 320 hp.
2000: The third SVT Mustang Cobra R is produced. This lightweight, street-legal racing model has a 385-hp, 5.4-liter DOHC V-8 and features the first six-speed manual transmission ever in a Mustang. Production is 300 units.
2001: Inspired by the 1968 Mustang GT390 driven by Steve McQueen in the movie classic “Bullitt,” the Mustang Bullitt GT makes its debut. It has unique side scoops, 17-inch Bullitt-style aluminum wheels and a lowered, specially-tuned suspension.
2002: Mustang stands alone as its two closest competitors – the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird – end production.
2003: The Mustang Mach 1 returns with a 305-hp V-8 engine and the signature ram-air “Shaker” hood scoop. It includes 17-inch, five-spoke Heritage wheels inspired by the 1969-1973 Mustang’s Mach 1 wheels and 1960s-style “comfort weave” seats trimmed in black leather.
The SVT Mustang Cobra gets an Eaton supercharger for its 4.6-liter V-8, which ups the power output to 390 hp and 390 lb.-ft. of torque. This made the 2003 Cobra the fastest, best-performing regular production Mustang to date.
2004: Ford Motor Company produces its 300 millionth car – a 2004 Mustang GT convertible 40th Anniversary edition. The Anniversary package, available on all V-6 and GT models, including convertibles, includes an exclusive Crimson Red exterior with Arizona Beige Metallic performance stripes on the hood, lower rocker panels and decklid.
The 2004 models will be the last cars built at Ford’s fabled Dearborn Assembly Plant, which has produced Mustangs every model year since the car’s inception.
1994 – 1999 Gallery
