USA vs USA — 1979 vs 2003
| Mustang GT 5.0 | Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 225 hp | 390 hp |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft | 390 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 4,942 cc | 4,601 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.8 sec | 4.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 145 mph | 157 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 12.8 sec |
| Weight | 3,100 lbs | 3,607 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,549 mm | 2,573 mm |
| Length | 4,571 mm | 4,652 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 13,476 |
| Original MSRP | $13,270 | $34,750 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
The 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1979 Ford Mustang GT 5.0 counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Ford Mustang lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1979 Ford Mustang GT 5.0 with the 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator reveals how Ford refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator holds a clear advantage in raw power with 390 hp compared to 225 hp, a 165-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Ford Mustang uses a V8 OHV displacing 4,942 cc, while the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra relies on a V8 DOHC 32V Supercharged with 4,601 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator edges ahead at 4.5 seconds versus 5.8 seconds. The Ford Mustang carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 507 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra Terminator commands a significant premium over the 1979 Ford Mustang GT 5.0, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.