SN95 Perfection: Modded 1997 Ford Mustang Cobra on Air Suspension
In the dynamic world of muscle cars, every once in a while, we come across an enthusiast who takes a vehicle and elevates it to the next level. CJ is one such individuals who decided to take a stock 1997 Ford Mustang Cobra and turn it into something extraordinary.
In his garage, equipped with a 2-post lift, CJ has been dedicating his winters since 2015 to methodically upgrade and refine his SN95 Cobra. The remarkable part? He personally handled nearly every bit of the transformation, making sure each component he added or altered was carefully painted to maintain a pristine look.
A Detailed Look at CJ’s 1997 Mustang Cobra
Performance
CJ’s Cobra comes equipped with a selection of quality performance upgrades that complement each other well. The underdrive pulley set and a C&L cold air intake system, matched with a 76mm MAF housing and a powder-coated black K&N air filter, provide a stable boost in horsepower.
Additionally, the vehicle hosts MSD coil packs and VMS Racing 10.2 mil plug wires, enhancing the car’s power delivery and efficiency. The electrical system is further bolstered by a PA performance 200 amp alternator and a Big 3 wire upgrade, ensuring the Cobra runs smoothly and reliably.
Suspension
The Cobra’s suspension system has been revamped to provide a comfortable yet sporty ride. CJ installed an AirRide 3P suspension system which adapts well to varying road conditions, offering a balanced and controlled driving experience on the go and provides that slammed look when parked. The welded-in subframe connectors and reinforced upper and lower rear torque boxes add to the vehicle’s stability, ensuring it handles well even when pushed to the limits.
Wheels & Tires
A set of black chrome Rovos Durbans wheels give the Cobra a bold stance. Sized 18×9 in the front and 18×10.5 at the rear, these wheels, coupled with high-grip Nitto Invos tires, ensure the car has an impressive road presence, while maintaining excellent handling characteristics.
Exterior
On the outside, the car sports a range of upgrades that enhance its visual appeal. The blacked-out turn signals and cobra-style headlights give it a sleek look. CJ added a touch of personalization with custom Cobra drawings on the trunk badge and several carbon fiber additions, including a unique spoiler and side mirrors.
The cohesive design is rounded off with GT500 Cobra front fender badges, bringing a hint of the Cobra’s illustrious lineage to the forefront.
Interior
Inside, the Cobra offers a comfortable yet modern environment. Carbon fiber elements are sprinkled throughout the cabin, including a gauge cluster overlay and a carbon fiber replacement for the factory fabric on the lower door panels.
The rear seat has been replaced with a custom-made delete that matches the black and saddle interior, housing a state-of-the-art sound system, complete with JL audio subwoofers and a Rockford Fosgate amplifier. The trunk neatly houses the air tank and compressor, showcasing CJ’s dedication to a clean and unified setup.
Spec List: 1997 Ford Mustang Cobra #4399
Performance
- Under drive pulley set
- C&L cold air intake with 76 mm MAF housing and K&N air filter all powder coated black
- MSD coil packs
- VMS Racing 10.2 mil plug wires
- PA performance 200 amp alternator
- Big 3 wire upgrade (4 gauge wires from alternator to battery, battery to fuse panel, ground from battery to motor, motor to frame)
- X2 power sealed battery
- T-spec V-12 battery terminals
- Ford performance 3.73 gears
- Power stop. Drilled and slotted brake rotors and ceramic pads
Suspension
- AirLift 3P suspension system
- Strut tower brace
- Sub frame connectors wielded in
- Upper and lower rear torque boxes reinforced
Wheels & Tires
- Black chrome Rovos Durbans
- Front: 18×9 Rear: 18×10.5
- Tires: Nitto Invos
- Front: 255-30-18. Rear: 295-30-18
Exterior
- Blacked out front turn signals with blacked out cobra style headlights
- Blacked out 3rd brake light, bumper markers, and taillights with a sequential taillight kit
- Custom cobra drawing overlay for the Ford trunk badge
- 03-04 “SVT” trunk badge with carbon fiber vinyl overlay
- Carbon fiber vinyl wrapped bottom of the bumper
- Vinyl Carbon fiber “Cobra” letters on back bumper
- Balogh body workx rear diffuser custom mounted to tuck flush with rear bumper
- Balogh body workx side skirts/side skirt extensions
- Special carbon fiber. S-281 real carbon fiber spoiler
- Custom made real carbon fiber side mirrors (1 of 1)
- Special Carbon Fiber. Real carbon fiber cowl panel with wiper delete
- GT500 Cobra front fender badges
- Front and rear calipers painted white
- Redline tuning gas shock hood supports
- GMC Envoy fog light conversion
- Hydro dipped carbon fiber air filter cover, fuse box cover, and radiator cover
Interior
- Carbon driven real carbon fiber elements including gauge cluster overlay, clock on the dash, 03-04 radio/AC bezel with shifter bezel, door pulls on door panels, center console lid, and door sills
- Dark Horse Carbon. Rear carbon fiber replacement for the factory fabric on the lower door panels
- Custom made rear seat delete covered with two-tone leather to match the interior (black and saddle) with raised letters “SVT” on the lower panel
- Custom made speaker box with 2 10” JL audio v3 subwoofers powered by a Rockford Fosgate amp P500x2
- Factory amp delete and rewired for Rockford Fosgate P1683 6×8” door and rear package tray speakers
- Power Acoustic double din touch screen head unit
- Custom built trunk floor with wood flooring for the Crystal white air tank, air compressor, and subwoofer box
Wrapping Up
CJ’s 1997 Ford Mustang Cobra stands as a solid example of what dedication and a clear vision can achieve. The car not only looks good but performs at a high level, showcasing the potential that lies in the SN95 series when handled with skill and expertise. It’s a beacon of inspiration, showing what is possible when passion and commitment fuel the journey of transforming a car.
Watch the progress and find out more about this Ford Mustang Cobra project by visiting the Instagram profile of the owner: @bagged_svt_cj!
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