Unleash the Legend: Own a Piece of Mustang Performance History!
The Genesis of a Performance Icon: Unveiling the 2000 Mustang SVT Cobra R
In the year 2000, the automotive world witnessed the birth of a legend: the Ford Mustang SVT Cobra R. This wasn't merely another iteration of a popular model; it was a bold statement, a definitive answer to critics who doubted the handling capabilities of American automobiles. Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT) embarked on a mission to craft the ultimate Mustang for its era, sacrificing creature comforts for unadulterated speed and agility. With only 300 units ever manufactured, each hand-assembled and distinctly numbered, this vehicle emerged as a true exotic in its own right.
A Glimpse into Automotive Rarity: The Coveted #193 Model at Auction
Among the exclusive production run, the particular unit numbered 193 is presently making its way across the auction block at Mecum. This specific example boasts an exceptionally low mileage of 9,759, accompanied by a spotless vehicle history report and comprehensive maintenance records. Under its hood lies a formidable naturally-aspirated 5.4-liter V8 engine, generating an impressive 385 horsepower and an equal amount of torque. Its signature Borla side-exit exhausts provide a powerful, resonant soundtrack. All power is channeled to the rear wheels via a robust Tremec T56 six-speed manual gearbox. Ford's decision to offer the Cobra R exclusively in Performance Red further solidifies its iconic status, ensuring a striking and unified aesthetic for all 300 models.
The Surging Value of an Automotive Masterpiece: Why the SVT Cobra R Commands High Prices Today
Acquiring a Cobra R in 2000 was an endeavor of both dedication and fortune. While previous models necessitated a competition license, the 2000 version, though less restrictive, still required considerable luck. With a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $54,995, Ford implemented a lottery system for dealerships to even gain the opportunity to sell one, resulting in many units fetching prices well above sticker from the very first day. Fast forward to the current collector's market, these vehicles have demonstrated substantial appreciation. Recent auction figures reveal that well-maintained examples can command prices ranging from $100,000 to over $153,000, depending on mileage and overall condition. This represents a remarkable increase in value for a car barely two decades old. The limited production quantity was not a marketing ploy; it was a necessity to fulfill the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) homologation requirements, a commitment Ford rigorously upheld.
Legacy of Power: The Enduring Impact of the Final Naturally-Aspirated Cobra
The distinctive appeal of the 2000 Cobra R extended beyond its scarcity; it was deeply rooted in its formidable performance capabilities. This machine could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.7 seconds, complete a quarter-mile sprint in the low 13-second range, and reach a top speed of 175 mph. Unlike its contemporaries, it also exhibited exceptional stopping power, decelerating from 70 mph in just 160 feet, thanks to its massive Brembo braking system. Furthermore, it could achieve an impressive 1.02 g's on the skid pad, a remarkable feat for a Mustang from that era. Ford stripped the car of non-essential elements, removing the rear seats, installing lightweight Recaro racing bucket seats in the front, and even omitting air conditioning and a radio. This uncompromising approach resulted in the final naturally-aspirated Cobra R ever produced by Ford, signaling the close of an important era. The SVT Cobra R established a benchmark that influenced every high-performance Mustang that followed, solidifying its place as the ultimate object of desire for pony car aficionados.