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1996 Ford Mustang Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Cathleen V | September 24, 2025
The 1996 Ford Mustang is a quintessential American "pony car", representing the popular SN95 generation (1994-2004). Available as both a coupe and convertible, it offered a blend of classic muscle car styling and modern performance for its era. Key trims included the Base V6, the GT, and the high-performance SVT Cobra. It stood out for its iconic design, the introduction of the new 4.6L "Mod Motor" V8 in the GT and Cobra, and its accessible pricing, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking an affordable V8 experience and customization potential.
The Good

The 1996 Ford Mustang boasts an iconic, aggressive design that appeals to emotional buyers, especially with the thrilling V8 performance of the GT and SVT Cobra. Practically, its strong aftermarket support and relatively robust 4.6L engine contribute to decent reliability and excellent long-term value. It offers a comfortable ride for a sports coupe and is an affordable way to own a piece of American automotive history.

The Bad

Known weaknesses for the 1996 Ford Mustang include a somewhat dated interior with prone-to-rattle plastics, potential for rust in severe climates, especially on convertible tops, and softer base model suspension. The V6 models can feel underpowered. Older automatic transmissions might be sluggish, and intake manifold gaskets on early 4.6L V8s can be problematic.

1996 Ford Mustang: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 3.8L OHV V6 (Base)
    • 4.6L SOHC V8 (GT)
    • 4.6L DOHC V8 (SVT Cobra)
  • Horsepower:
    • V6: 150 hp @ 4000 rpm
    • GT: 215 hp @ 4400 rpm
    • SVT Cobra: 305 hp @ 5800 rpm
  • Fuel Economy (approx. city/highway MPG):
    • V6 (manual): 19/28 mpg
    • GT (manual/automatic): 17/24 mpg
    • SVT Cobra (manual): 17/24 mpg
  • 0-60 MPH Times (approx.):
    • V6: 9.0-9.5 seconds
    • GT: 6.5-6.8 seconds
    • SVT Cobra: 5.5-5.8 seconds
  • Towing Capacity:
    • Generally not recommended for significant towing; typically rated for light utility trailers up to approximately 1,000 lbs if properly equipped, but not officially marketed or ideal for towing.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base V6: Standard features include a 5-speed manual transmission, power steering, power brakes, cloth bucket seats, an AM/FM stereo with cassette, and 15-inch steel wheels. Optional features included air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, cruise control, and anti-lock brakes (ABS).
    • GT: Builds on the Base trim with the 4.6L SOHC V8, a more aggressive sport suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, fog lights, and a rear spoiler. Interior upgrades often included power accessories as standard, optional leather seating, and an upgraded sound system.
    • SVT Cobra: The top-tier performance model, featuring the hand-built 4.6L DOHC V8 engine, a Borg-Warner T-45 5-speed manual transmission, unique exterior styling (different front fascia, hood, rear spoiler), 17-inch polished alloy wheels, upgraded four-wheel disc brakes with larger rotors, a specific tuned suspension, and premium interior appointments including unique upholstery and white-face gauges. ABS and traction control were often standard or optional.

1996 Ford Mustang Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 1996
Make Ford
Model Mustang
Trim -
Style Coupe 5-Speed Manual
Type Coupe
Category Subcompact Car
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City DEARBORN
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight 3157 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height 53.20 inches
Overall Length 181.50 inches
Overall Width 71.80 inches
Wheelbase Length 101.30 inches
Standard Seating 4
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.8-L V-6 OHV 12V
Engine Size 3.8L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type Manual
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Rear-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System Non-ABS 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $15,180
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

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What Problems Does the 1996 Ford Mustang Have?

The 1996 Ford Mustang, while generally robust, does have its share of frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns. One common issue for the 4.6L SOHC V8 found in the GT is the intake manifold gasket leak, particularly in earlier versions, leading to coolant or oil leaks. While later revisions and aftermarket replacements address this, it's a critical point for pre-purchase inspection. The DOHC 4.6L "Teksid" block in the SVT Cobra is renowned for its strength, but like any performance engine, demands diligent maintenance to prevent valvetrain issues or timing component wear.

Transmission longevity can vary. The 4R70W automatic transmission, while durable, can experience delayed shifts or harsh engagement with age and high mileage, especially if subjected to aggressive driving. The T-45 manual transmission, standard in the GT and Cobra, is generally strong but can develop worn synchronizers over time, leading to grinding when shifting.

Suspension components are common wear items on older vehicles; worn ball joints, tie rod ends, control arm bushings, and strut mounts frequently cause clunking noises or loose steering. Power steering pump leaks are also not uncommon. On the electrical front, issues like failing power window motors, door lock actuators, and intermittent dashboard lighting or radio problems are often reported.

Interior quality, typical of 90s American cars, means brittle plastics, sagging headliners, and worn seat bolsters are common with age. Rust can be a significant concern for vehicles in regions exposed to road salt, often appearing around wheel arches, rocker panels, and subframe components.

Regarding recalls, owners should always check the NHTSA database for specific VINs. While general fuel tank strap corrosion or certain cruise control deactivation switch recalls (which affected many Ford vehicles of that era and could pose a fire risk) might apply to some SN95 Mustangs, specific recalls for the 1996 model should be verified. Overall, the 4.6L "Mod Motor" platform is known for its durability if properly maintained, but these are common areas requiring attention as the vehicle ages.

How long will the 1996 Ford Mustang last?

Based on owner data and diligent maintenance habits, a 1996 Ford Mustang can easily achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles, with many examples surpassing 250,000 miles, particularly those equipped with the resilient 4.6L V8 engine and manual transmission. These vehicles are known for long-term durability of their core powertrain components if routine servicing is not neglected. Many are still on the road today, nearly three decades after their manufacture, a testament to their robust build.

However, weaknesses tend to emerge with age. Rubber components like suspension bushings, hoses, and weatherstripping deteriorate, leading to increased noise, vibration, and leaks. Electrical gremlins often surface, affecting power accessories or dashboard functions. Interior plastics can become brittle and crack. Rust remains a significant long-term concern for vehicles in colder, salt-prone climates, impacting structural integrity and cosmetic appeal. Consistent maintenance is paramount to extending the vehicle's service life beyond typical averages.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 1996 Ford Mustang, while a modern vehicle for its time, reflects the technological standards of the mid-1990s rather than today's advanced systems.

Built-in Tech & Entertainment: Standard fare included an AM/FM stereo, often with a cassette player. An optional single-disc CD player was available. For audio enthusiasts, the Mustang offered the upgraded Mach 460 sound system, which featured an external amplifier and multiple speakers to deliver a more powerful and clearer sound experience. Later models also saw the Mach 1000 system. The dashboard featured analog gauges for essential information like speed, RPM, fuel level, engine temperature, oil pressure, and voltage.

Driver-Assistance Features: These were extremely rudimentary compared to contemporary vehicles. The primary driver-assistance feature was optional cruise control, which was a convenience item rather than a safety aid.

Safety Features: The 1996 Mustang came standard with dual front airbags for both the driver and front passenger, a significant safety advancement for its time. It also included 3-point seatbelts. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were an important optional safety feature, enhancing braking control in slippery conditions. Traction control (TCS) was also an available option, though less common on earlier SN95 models.

Crash-Test Ratings: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) conducted crash tests for the 1996 Ford Mustang, yielding the following results by 1996 standards:
  • Frontal Driver: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Frontal Passenger: 3 out of 5 stars
  • Side Impact (Driver): 4 out of 5 stars
  • Side Impact (Rear Passenger): 4 out of 5 stars
It's crucial to note that these ratings are based on the criteria and technology available at the time of testing in 1996. By modern crash safety standards, these ratings would be considered significantly lower, as automotive safety technology has advanced considerably since then. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not perform comprehensive testing on vehicles of this vintage.

What Colors Options are Available?

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1996 Ford Mustang Prices and Market Value

When new in 1996, the Ford Mustang offered accessible pricing. A Base V6 coupe typically started around $15,000-$17,000, while the GT coupe was priced approximately between $19,000 and $22,000. The high-performance SVT Cobra coupe commanded a premium, starting roughly at $24,000-$26,000, with convertible versions adding several thousand dollars to these figures.

In today's used market, prices are highly variable. Base V6 models typically range from $2,000 to $6,000. GT models fetch $4,000 to $12,000, while the coveted SVT Cobra can command $10,000 to over $30,000, especially for low-mileage, pristine, or rare examples. Depreciation for these vehicles has largely bottomed out. Well-preserved GTs and Cobras, particularly those with manual transmissions, are now seeing appreciation as they transition into collector status. Factors significantly affecting resale value include overall condition (rust, paint, interior wear), mileage, documented service history, originality versus modifications, and the specific trim level, with Cobras being the most sought-after. Manual transmissions also tend to hold value better in performance trims.

1996 Ford Mustang Cost of Ownership

Long-term ownership of a 1996 Ford Mustang can be moderately economical for a performance car. Insurance costs can be higher for younger drivers or performance trims (GT, Cobra) due to their classification. Fuel costs are manageable for the V6, but the V8s are thirsty, with the Cobra requiring premium fuel. Maintenance is relatively affordable; parts are plentiful and reasonably priced thanks to excellent aftermarket support. Repairs are often straightforward, making DIY a popular and cost-saving option. While routine upkeep is not expensive, addressing neglected issues or significant rust can become costly. Overall, it's not a "cheap" car to run if you value performance, but it offers a good balance of running costs compared to other sports cars of its era, making it a viable enthusiast's choice.

1996 Ford Mustang Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 15.40 gallons
City Mileage 20 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 30 miles/gallon

1996 Ford Mustang Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating Not Tested
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating Not Tested
Side Rear Passenger Rating Not Tested
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested

1996 Ford Mustang Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2001-10-03
Recall no. 01v318000
Source NHTSA
Summary Equipment Description: Passenger Vehicles That Have HAD THE Driver's AIR BAG Module Replaced After April 5, 2000. THE Replacement Driver's AIR BAG Module Inflator MAY Have Insufficient Welds That Could Prevent Proper Inflation OF THE AIR Bag.
Consequence IN THE Event OF A Crash, THE Driver's AIR BAG MAY NOT Properly Deploy Which Could Potentially Result IN Less Than THE Intended Level OF Occupant Protection.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Replace THE Driver's AIR BAG Module. Owner Notification Began October 5, 2001. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-866-436-7332.
Notes Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Parking Brake:conventional
Recall date 2000-10-30
Recall no. 00v349000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles Equipped With Manual Transmissions. IF A Vehicle IS Parked With THE Parking Brake NOT Fully Applied and NOT IN First Gear, AS Directed IN THE Owner Guide, and THE Self Adjustment Pawl Subsequently Skips ONE or Two Teeth, THE Vehicle Could Move ON Some Grades.
Consequence This Could Result IN Unintended Vehicle Movement and A Vehicle Crash Without Prior Warning.
Remedy Dealers Will Modify THE Parking Brake Control and Install A Plate or Over-Bracket TO THE Control TO Lock THE Self Adjust Mechanism IN Position Following Adjustment.
Notes Owner Notification Began November 28, 2000.owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Structure:body:hood
Recall date 1997-10-20
Recall no. 97v180000
Source NHTSA
Summary Vehicle Description: Passenger Vehicles and Mini Vans. Tearing OF THE Bond Between THE Inner and Outer Hood Panels During Minor Front END Collisions CAN Result IN A GAP AT THE Leading Edge OF THE Hood. AIR Forced Between THE Inner and Outer Panels CAN Produce Enough Pressure TO Force THE Outer Panel Upward.
Consequence This Condition CAN Result IN Total Separation OF THE Outer Hood Panel.
Remedy Dealers Will Inspect THE Hood Area FOR ANY Damage Along THE Leading Edge OF THE Hood. IF There IS ANY Evidence OF Bond Separation, THE Hood Will BE Replaced. IF There IS NO Evidence OF Bond Separation, Additional Adhesive Will BE Applied Between THE Inner and Outer Hood Panels.
Notes Owner Notification Began November 10, 1997. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-07-17
Recall no. 06e064000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Tradesonic Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Tradesonic Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During July 2006. Owners MAY Contact Tradesonic AT 626-934-8884.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Tradesonic Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-06-29
Recall no. 06e060000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain AAI Motorsports Combination Lamps Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Above List Passenger Vehicles. Combination Lamps NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Lack OF Amber Side Reflectors IN THE Lamps Will Decrease Lighting Visibility TO Other Drivers and MAY Possibly Result IN A Vehicle Crash
Remedy AAI Motorsports Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON August 1, 2006. Owners MAY Contact AAI Motorsports AT 909-923-9188.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO AAI Motorsports Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-05-24
Recall no. 06e049000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain CK Motorsports Combination Headlights, Clear Corner, Bumper, and Side Marker Lights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy CK Motorsport Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Noncompliant Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 1, 2006. Owners MAY Contact CK Motorsport AT 1-909-610-7211.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY THE Vehicle Manufacturers.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2006-03-21
Recall no. 06e025000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Poli-Auto Combination Headlamp Assemblies, P/Nos. 11-728, 11-728d, 11-710, 11-419, 11-713, 11-703, 11-704, 11-708p, 11-735, 11-725, 11-726, 11-716 (P&c), 11-721-1, 11-733, 11-729, 11-730, and 11-732, Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Poli-Auto Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Headlamps AT ITS Original Purchase Price. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During April 2006. Owners MAY Contact Poli-Auto AT 305-477-1356.
Notes Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2006-03-23
Recall no. 06e026000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Pro-A Motors Corner Lamps, Turn Signals, and Headlights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Pro-A Motors Will Notify Owners and Offer TO Repurchase THE Lamps. THE Recall Began ON April 3, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Pro-A Motors AT 323-838-2988.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Pro-A Motors Aftermarket Lamps and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2006-03-13
Recall no. 06e023000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Anzo Combination Headlamp Assemblies Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON Certain Passenger Vehicles. Some Combination Lamps ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Which Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Anzo Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Headlamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began MAY 9, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Anzo USA AT 909-468-3688.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Headlamp Assemblies Manufactured BY Anzo and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Listed Passenger Vehicles.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2008-08-11
Recall no. 08e050000
Source NHTSA
Summary K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date 2009-04-07
Recall no. 09e012000
Source NHTSA
Summary Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date 2009-05-11
Recall no. 09e025000
Source NHTSA
Summary Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .

1996 Ford Mustang Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 0 months / No data
Estimated remaining Expired

1996 Ford Mustang Insurance

Insurance for a 1996 Ford Mustang is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 1996 Ford Mustang Compare to Other Coupe?

The 1996 Ford Mustang competed fiercely in the "pony car" segment, primarily against the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird, as well as some imports.

Vs. Chevrolet Camaro / Pontiac Firebird (4th Gen, LT1):
  • Performance: The 1996 Mustang GT's 215 hp 4.6L V8 was competitive, but the LT1 V8 in the Z28 Camaro and Trans Am Firebird often produced more raw horsepower (275 hp) and typically offered stronger straight-line acceleration. The Mustang SVT Cobra (305 hp) was more directly comparable to the F-body's performance.
  • Features: Both platforms offered similar levels of interior features, focusing on performance. The F-bodies often felt a bit more spartan inside.
  • Reliability: Both had their specific quirks. The Mustang's 4.6L Mod Motor gained a reputation for robust longevity, while the LT1 in the F-bodies had known issues like optispark distributors, but was still a potent engine.
  • Price: New, they were very similarly priced. Used, well-maintained examples of both hold value, with LS1-powered (post-1997) F-bodies often fetching higher prices for their superior engine.

Vs. Japanese Sport Coupes (e.g., Honda Prelude, Nissan 240SX, Toyota Celica GT):
  • Performance: These Japanese rivals generally couldn't match the Mustang's V8 power, often being 4-cylinder or V6 FWD. The 240SX offered RWD and mod potential but less stock power.
  • Features: Japanese cars often boasted more refined interiors, better fit-and-finish, and sometimes more advanced tech for the era.
  • Reliability: Generally, the Japanese alternatives had a reputation for higher reliability and lower running costs, although parts for some models can be expensive now.
  • Price: New, similar prices for non-luxury models. Used, can be quite high for enthusiast models like clean 240SXes.

Recommendations:
The 1996 Mustang GT offers a compelling balance of classic American muscle car appeal, V8 sound, and customization potential at an affordable price. If you prioritize raw straight-line performance and don't mind a less refined interior, a 1998-2002 LS1-powered Camaro Z28 or Firebird Trans Am might be a "better" alternative in terms of pure speed. However, for a blend of distinctive style, a durable V8, and a huge aftermarket, the 1996 Mustang GT remains a strong and enjoyable choice. For a more sophisticated handling experience with front-wheel drive, a Honda Prelude could be a similar alternative, though with a very different character.

Final Verdict: Is the 1996 Ford Mustang a Good Coupe?

The 1996 Ford Mustang is ideal for enthusiasts seeking an affordable entry into the world of classic American muscle. It appeals to those who value iconic styling, the unmistakable rumble of a V8, and a robust platform that encourages customization and DIY maintenance. It makes an excellent second car, a weekend cruiser, or a rewarding project for someone willing to delve into its quirks and upkeep.

Is it worth buying? Absolutely, especially a GT or SVT Cobra. These models are experiencing a resurgence in popularity and potential appreciation, making a well-maintained example a smart enthusiast purchase. You will almost exclusively be buying it used.

For the best experience, target a GT for a solid balance of performance and value, or an SVT Cobra for peak performance and collector appeal. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is crucial to find a rust-free example with documented maintenance. Avoid heavily modified cars unless you plan a full overhaul. It's less ideal as a primary daily driver in harsh climates due to rust potential, but excels as a fun, engaging, and iconic ride.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.