SVT Mustang Cobra R: Raw American Power
Written: Jan 07 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Amazing power and looks
Cons: no air conditioning or radio, limited production means high prices
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| revco98's Full Review: 2000 Ford Mustang Cobra |
Note: I have not driven the 2000 Cobra R. Many people have criticized me and given me NR ratings for lack of personal experience. I have ridden in this car, and since there are only 300 of these cars in production, I feel my personal experience will suffice. I have a vast knowledge of this vehicle due to research. This and my love for this car is why I am writing this epinion. If you feel I deserve an NR for not driving this car, then that I will accept it. Thanks, hope you enjoy the review.
To say the least, the year 2000 was an interesting year for Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT). With delays on the production of the 2000 Mustang Cobra because power outputs were lower than listed, SVT produced a limited edition of the 2000 Cobra which was given the glamorous name: Cobra R.
The most powerful Mustang automobile ever produced, the Cobra R brings awesome power and mean looks to the road. Because of limited production of the vehicle (only 300 were made), the prices have boomed past $50,000. Some people think it is crazy to pay such outrageous money for a Ford while others are willing to pay the premium to own such a majestic vehicle.
Performance
The Cobra R packs a 5.4 DOHC V8 engine. This huge piece of equipment forced the redesign of the hood of the car just to fit this bad boy in the front of the car. The large bulge in the hood gives evidence to the size of this mammoth power house. Intake and exhaust ports were redesigned by SVT to improve the air flow for the car. Despite the rather heavy weight of this car, the 385 horses under the hood make this car zoom 0-60 in about 4.7 seconds and 0-100 in about 10.9 seconds. Due to the powerful engine and amazing aerodynamics of the Cobra R, the top speed exceeds 170 MPH. Exhaust on the Cobra R is also been modified greatly. Because of rear suspension and fuel tank complications, rear exiting exhaust pipes had to be voided. The car has side exiting exhaust tips directly in front of the rear wheels. This automobile also comes with a new 6 speed manual transmission as opposed to the standard 5 speed which comes with most Cobra vehicles.
Suspension
The suspension in the Cobra R is rock solid. This is good and also bad. For track use, which is basically what the Cobra R is intended for, the Cobra R handles exceptionally; however, for road use, the rock solid suspension creates a rough ride. The Cobra R has a lowered ride height and 18 inch wheels wrapped in 265/40ZR18 tires.
Exterior
The Cobra R's most noticeable features on the exterior are definitely the front racing air dam and the rear spoiler. Both body pieces give the automobile a definitive look as well as the look of a mean racing machine. The 300 Cobra R's produced are all the trademark color of red. When I first saw one of these cars at a fairly large Ford dealership where I live, I was in awe. There is a majestic aura about this car that is difficult to explain; maybe it's the fact that only 300 of these vehicles exist or maybe it's the combination of beauty and power. Being a huge Mustang fan, I believe this car is stunningly beautiful. I actually got my friend who works at the dealership to take a couple pictures of me and the Cobra R.
Personal Experience with the Cobra R
I have a friend who works at the SVT licensed Ford Dealership in my town. I convinced him to let me come in and ride with him in the Cobra R (he wouldn't let me drive it). Being a huge fan and having read every known article on the Cobra R, I took this opportunity without a second thought. When he started up the car, I was amazing at the ear pleasing sound which resonated from the exhaust pipes. I have always thought that Mustang's have great sounding engines, but all I can say about the Cobra R exhaust tone is "Wow". Although we only were in the car for a minute or two, it was amazing. When he hit the gas, I was awestruck with the power of the engine; I literally was pinned to my seat. The ride was slightly rough, but I could care less. The Cobra R is truly an All American sports car.
Other notes about the Cobra R
Most people who know some information on this vehicle know that this car comes without an air conditioner and a radio. The car is strictly a racing vehicle; not for every day driving. Because of the rarity of this car, prices have gone over $70,000; the Cobra R I rode in went for $74,000! SVT Ford has created a legendary special edition of a classic car. The Cobra R is truly an amazing vehicle that I would love to even be able to see another one in person again. The Cobra R is a pure muscle car which is probably owned by people who have money to burn. One thing is for certain, if I had the money, I would definitely do what I could to get my hands on the 2000 SVT Cobra R.
Recommended:
Yes
Condition: New
Model Year: 2000
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revco98
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Member: Kevin
Location: Florida
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