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2003 Ford SVT Mustang Cobra Convertible Road Test

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Khatir Soltani
With that in mind what do you get for $49,995? Its 390-hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, suspension upgrades and other go-fast goodies notwithstanding, the SVT Cobra convertible comes with a power top, power windows, power door locks with remote access, air-conditioning, cruise control, tilt steering, an AM/FM six-disc in-dash CD system and leather interior trim. If you're looking for European refinement, look elsewhere. While the seats are comfortable and supportive and the white-faced gauges cool and trendy, the dash, console and door panels are constructed of cheap plastics and probably won't top the J.D. Powers initial quality charts all too soon. The audio system looks more integrated than previous examples but the HVAC interface looks like it came out of an aftermarket catalog, and a bargain basement one to boot.

Still, Mustang fans don't seem to care. Instead they revel in the thought that their down and dirty muscle car can kick automotive butt, obliterating almost anything that dares wander into its path. Few cars are as packed full of performance for the money, even if its near $50K sticker price is hardly blue collar accessible.

So where are the Camaros and Firebirds? Where are the Challengers, Chargers and 'Cudas to retaliate? In the pony car wars, due to default if for no other reason, the Mustang still reigns supreme. More power to you Ford.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada