USA vs USA — 2003 vs 1974
| Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator | Mustang II King Cobra | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 390 hp | 139 hp |
| Torque | 390 lb-ft | 250 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,601 cc | 4,942 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.5 sec | 9.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 157 mph | 110 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 12.8 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 3,607 lbs | 3,000 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,573 mm | 2,451 mm |
| Length | 4,652 mm | 4,521 mm |
| Units Produced | 13,476 | 4,318 |
| Original MSRP | $34,750 | $5,280 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $45,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1974 Ford Mustang II King Cobra answers with lighter weight, greater rarity, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra. The 2003 and 1974 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 139 hp, a 251-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra uses a V8 DOHC 32V Supercharged displacing 4,601 cc, while the Ford Mustang II relies on a V8 OHV with 4,942 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator edges ahead at 4.5 seconds versus 9.6 seconds. The Ford Mustang II carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 607 lbs lighter. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.