How much was a Mustang in 1998?
In 1998, a new Ford Mustang ranged roughly from about $13,000 for the base LX coupe to around $28,000 for the SVT Cobra, with GT and convertible variants in between depending on options.
To understand this question, it helps to look at the lineup from a pricing perspective: what each trim offered, how added options increased the sticker price, and how those prices compared to competing models in the late 1990s muscle-car market.
Pricing by trim and body style
Below is a snapshot of typical manufacturer sticker prices for the 1998 Mustang lineup when new at U.S. dealerships.
- LX Coupe (base): roughly $13,000–$15,000
- GT Coupe: roughly $18,000–$21,000
- GT Convertible: roughly $20,000–$24,000
- Cobra SVT: roughly $27,000–$28,500
Prices could vary significantly based on transmission choice (manual vs. automatic), options like leather or premium audio, and performance packages. Dealer incentives and regional variations also played a role in the final out-the-door price.
Historical context and market position
During the late 1990s, the Mustang competed against the Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of everyday practicality and sporty performance. The Cobra SVT, in particular, represented Ford's high-performance niche within the lineup and carried a premium over the standard GTs.
Notes on pricing and editions
There were no major overhauls to the Mustang lineup in 1998 beyond continued refinements to fit and finish; the more widely cited 35th-anniversary edition appeared in the following year (1999) as part of a broader revival in special-edition Mustangs.
Summary
In summary, a new Mustang in 1998 spanned roughly from the mid-teens into the upper-20s, with base LX models around the $13k–$15k mark and the high-performance Cobra approaching $28k, illustrating Ford’s price ladder for the SN-95 generation when it faced strong competition and growing demand for affordable performance.
How much did a 1998 Ford Mustang cost when it first came out?
1998 Ford Mustang pricing starts at $3,087 for the Mustang Coupe 2D, which had a starting MSRP of $17,805 when new. The range-topping 1998 Mustang Cobra Convertible 2D starts at $10,393 today, originally priced from $28,955.
How much did a Mustang cost in 1999?
1999 Ford Mustang Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.) | |
|---|---|---|
| Coupe 2D | $18,360 | $3,287 |
| GT Coupe 2D | $22,760 | $5,899 |
| Convertible 2D | $22,960 | $3,600 |
| GT Convertible 2D | $26,760 | $6,612 |
How much was a Mustang GT in 1988?
Mustang GT MSRP by Year
| Year / Model / Trim | Base MSRP | Adj. for Inflation |
|---|---|---|
| 1988 Mustang GT 2-Door Hatchback | $12,745 | $34,405 |
| 1988 Mustang GT 2-Door Convertible | $16,610 | $44,838 |
| 1989 Mustang GT 2-Door Convertible | $17,512 | $45,165 |
| 1989 Mustang GT 2-Door Hatchback | $13,272 | $34,230 |
How much does a 1998 Mustang cost?
The value of a 1998 Ford Mustang varies significantly by trim, condition, and mileage, with general resale values ranging from approximately $2,000 to over $9,000, but specialized models like the SVT Cobra can be worth much more. A standard Coupe can be worth around $2,300, while a GT Coupe is around $4,400, and an SVT Cobra has an estimated trade-in value of over $7,000, with auction prices for well-maintained examples reaching higher, according to Kelley Blue Book, Kelley Blue Book, Hagerty, and Kelley Blue Book.
Value by trim
- Standard Coupe: Has an estimated resale value of about $2,287.
- GT Coupe: Has an estimated resale value of about $4,388.
- SVT Cobra: Has a higher estimated trade-in value of around $7,457.
Other factors influencing value
- Condition and mileage: A well-maintained Mustang with low mileage will be worth more than one with high mileage and extensive wear and tear.
- Vehicle history: Accidents or other issues in the car's history will negatively impact its value.
- Trim and options: Specialized trims like the SVT Cobra are significantly more valuable than standard models. Desirable options and features can also increase the price.
- Market trends: The value can fluctuate based on overall market conditions, consumer demand, and the time of year.
Where to get a more precise valuation
- Kelley Blue Book: Provides resale and trade-in values based on specific vehicle details.
- Edmunds: Offers a similar valuation tool for a wider price range.
- Hagerty: Provides valuation tools that can be particularly useful for classic and enthusiast cars like the SVT Cobra.
- CarMax: Offers a specific, firm offer for a car, which can be used for comparison shopping.
