The Mustang has always been revered as a strong muscle car ever since its inception back in 1964. And, almost 40 years later, the 2003 Mustang model is still making waves with its design, features, and powertrain. Mustang improves each and every year to the delight of Mustang fans and this year's lineup offers two special editions with a new Mach 1 and Cobra in addition to the standard V6 and GT V8. Driving the car is fun and you can feel the power, however despite all improvements the 2003 model is not a super sports car despite it being America's best selling convertible. This is simply because the price is affordable and the car is full of muscle, so don't expect a super lush interior with tons of extras. Just expect Mustang quality, a good drive, and a just comfortable enough interior.
However, the 2003 Mustang is a great car overall and this model has improvements to reduce outside noise, improved safety features, an enhanced suspension, as well as changing the V6 and V8 engines for the better.
2003 Mustang Lineup
The 2003 lineup is similar to past lineups and prices remain affordable. Individuals on a budget but desiring a muscle car can get what they want for about $18,000 with the V6 coupe. If you want the base convertible then plan on spending close to $23,000. The GT models are more expensive because of the extras with the coupe costing $23,500 and the convertible almost $28,000. The Cobra coupe and convertible cost about $33,000 and $37,500 respectively. Knowing the prices of the 2003 lineup will help you evaluate the following models and their respective features to help you decide which 2003 Mustang is the best for the money.
Powertrain
Although each 2003 Mustang's powertrain has been discussed, more information will be provided here to get an even clearer picture of the heart of this muscle car and where the power comes from.
The standard Mustang has an OHV V6 engine with a 3.8 liter block that produces 190 horsepower at 5250 rpm. The engine also produces 220 pounds of torque per foot at 2,750 rpm. Fuel is economized due to a split port induction in the engine in addition to coated pistons that reduce friction and enhance flow cylinder heads. Variability is reduced by firmer drive brackets and better then ever bearings.
The GT models are even more powerful and thanks to the standard ABS and traction control the power is easily handled by drivers. The SOHC V8 4.6 liter engine is standard on the GT and creates 260 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 302 pounds of torque at 4,000 rpm. The increased horsepower over the V6 is thanks to the durable high lift cams, identical intake manifold runner, and large valves that increase air intake. The engine has improved durability due to an all aluminum upper thrust, rod bearings, and upper main. Fuel efficiency is also maximized by optimal shaped combustion chambers and the Tremec TR3650 manual transmission. Starting the vehicle is easier than ever with a coil on plug ignition system that makes starting the car easy and consistent.
The Mach 1 has an outstanding powertrain that creates more than 300 horsepower from a DOHX 4.6 liter V8 engine at 6,000 rpm. The torque pound per foot is more than 300 at approximately 4250 rpm. The compression ration is 10.1:1 and the fuel system is comprised of a sequential multi-port electronic fuel injection. Due to this outstanding powertrain only Premium gas of 91 octane or higher is recommended.
The Cobra powertrain offers big block power from an amazingly small black due to technology and a refined engine. The supercharged 4.6 liter V8 engine produces an amazing 390 horsepower and 390 pounds per foot of torque. This engine withstands this increased power by the extra strong cast iron 4.6 liter block.
Exterior Design
Anyone who knows anything about the Mustangs from the mid '60s will immediately notice the similarities to the 2003 model despite the fact that the styles are softer and more modern than almost 40 years ago. The honeycomb grille with the pony, hood scoop, rear three element vertical tail lamps, and tricolor front fender badges are similar to the past, but other design features are more futuristic. For example, the fenders have obvious arches for the front and rear wheels while the rocker panels are noticeably curved. The rear air intake is more angular to offset the softer angle design features. Side marker lamps are incorporated with the complex reflector headlamps on the front end. The GT sports an even sportier design with a rear spoiler, fog lights, and special treatments on the hood and side-scoop.
As stated before, the Mach 1 has more specialized exterior design features than either the standard or GT. This includes the black shaker hood scoop that is attached to the engine and pokes through a square hole in the hood, which is different than the GT hood scoops that are non functional and are placed on top of the hood rather than connected directly to the engine. The Mach 1's scoop is then emphasized by a black stripe placed on the hood. The point of the Mach 1's scoop is to increase air intake so the engine can produce more power. And it works because the Mach 1 is super powerful with tons of muscle.
The Cobra's exterior design is considerably different than the other models with a distinctive exterior package. The supercharged engine needs extra room, so the hood of the Cobra is raised to provide the necessary space. Also, two rear facing vents are incorporated in the hood to allow the engine to release hot air. The driving lamps, front bumper, grille opening, rear end, rocker panels, side scoops, and even the wheels set the Cobra apart from the rest of the 2003 Mustang lineup.
Interior Design
2003 Mustang Cobra Interior
Nobody would go so far as to call the 2003 Mustang's interior spacious, but there is enough room to make oneself comfortable. Taller and larger drivers might find this a more difficult task, but for the average person it is not a problem. The seat does go back pretty far to accommodate longer legs, but tall drivers might still feel a bit cramped. Fortunately, no matter whether you choose the convertible or coupe you will find about the same amount of space. Many have complained about the Mustang's interior being less than roomy and luxurious, and this year's model really is no different. However, the seats are pretty comfortable, recline, and have the seatbelts attached so when the seat moves forward or back the seatbelts do, too.
The back seat is really like a storage area with mini seats because there is not enough room back there for adults to sit comfortably. However, if you are single or have small kids then you will find the space sufficient. The trunk is even smaller with only 11 cubic feet of space, and that is for coupes. The convertibles have even less at 7.7 cubic feet so if you are driving this you should have no plans of carrying large suitcases much less large purchases. The trunk does have a safety feature to prevent kids from getting trapped with a glow in the dark release that hangs down from the trunk release mechanism.
Cloth upholstery is standard in the V6 and GT, while leather is standard with the Premium GT and other models. Most models have the option of a leather upgrade, too. Noise is reduced thanks to foam seals throughout the car's body.
Mustang Safety
The 2003 Mustang receives the highest federal government rating for front passenger safety: 5 stars. Passengers are protected by front air bags, although the Mustang won't have side airbags until future models. The airbags have increased release technology in order to better protect passengers. A-pillar, sun visors, and headliners improve head impact collisions and front safety belts with pretensioners that tighten within milliseconds of an accident are standard. The belts also have energy management retractors that respond to the crash and reduce the pressure across the passenger's body if necessary. The patented Beltminder reminds passengers to buckle up and by doing so passengers greatly increase their chance of survival during an accident.
Anti lock brakes and four wheel disc brakes make avoiding an accident easier and are standard on the GT and an option on the V6. All speed traction control is another safety feature that increases the driver's control.
Mustang owners carrying young children or infants will appreciate the new LATCH system that includes anchors in the rear seat to safely install car seats.
And, all Mustang owners will enjoy the patented SecuriLock passive anti-theft system. This system is based on a chip in the owner's ignition key which helps deter thieves from starting the engine by other means.
