Ford Mustang Eighth Generation History
The eighth generation Mustang ran from 1999 to 2004 and was very similar to the previous car, so much so that many people do not even notice a difference. Characterizing the redesign was Ford's New Edge design language, which featured sharper contours, larger wheel arches, and creases in the bodywork, replacing many of the soft lines of the previous model. However, the ninth generation car carried over the same roof line and interior, in addition to the same basic platform. All 1999 eighth generation cars (except the Cobra) received "35th-Anniversary" badges on the front fenders. In the eighth generation the 3.8 L V6 returned as the base engine for 1999.
In the eighth generation, a "35th Anniversary Limited Edition" appearance option package came on a very limited number of cars. Available only in black, silver metallic, white, and red, they featured a body-colored hood scoop, rear spoiler, side scoops and rocker panels, a blacked-out panel between the taillamps; while the Interiors included black leather and vinyl seats with silver inserts and pony logo, aluminum shift knob, a unique instrument cluster with 35th anniversary script, silver and black floor mats with 35th anniversary logo, and silver door trim inserts.
The Cobra model returned for the eighth generation 1999 with its 32-valve 4.6 L V8. The eighth generation 1999 Cobra had a T-45 transmission which was then replaced with the TR-3650 in the eighth generation 2001 model. All 1999-2004 Cobras came equipped with an independent rear suspension, providing them with better handling. Ford withheld making a 2000 model year Cobra. The eighth generation SVT Cobra returned briefly for 2001 but then went on a hiatus again for 2002 in America due to a redesign planned for 2003. The limited eighth generation 2002 Cobra's that were build were shipped to Australia and received a right hand conversion. In 2003, Ford updated the Cobra for the last time.
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