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What is the 0-60 time for a 99 04 Mustang?

0-60 mph times for a 1999–2004 Mustang vary by model, but typical figures are roughly: V6 7.5–8.0 s, GT 5.0–5.5 s, Mach 1 4.7–5.0 s, Cobra 4.7–5.0 s (1999–2001), and Terminator Cobra 4.0–4.4 s (2003–2004).


To understand what these numbers mean, it’s important to note that the Mustang lineup from 1999 through 2004 included several distinct engines and transmissions. The time to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph depends on power output, drivetrain, tire traction, gear ratios, and even the test environment. This article breaks down the typical ranges by model and discusses factors that influence those times.


Model-by-model timing ranges


Below is a guide to typical 0-60 mph times across the main configurations offered in the 1999–2004 Mustang era, with caveats about test conditions and transmission choices.



  • V6 coupe/convertible (3.8L V6 era) — typically about 7.5–8.0 seconds in automatic, slightly faster with manual transmissions.

  • GT (4.6L V8, 260–300 hp depending on year) — commonly in the 5.0–5.5 second range, depending on transmission and equipment.

  • Mach 1 (4.6L DOHC, introduced 2003, around 305–325 hp) — generally about 4.7–5.0 seconds, depending on the test car and tires.

  • SVT Cobra (1999–2001, 4.6L supercharged, ~320 hp) — typically around 4.7–5.0 seconds.

  • SVT Cobra (Terminator, 2003–2004, 4.6L supercharged, ~390 hp) — performance leader for the era, roughly 4.0–4.4 seconds.


In addition to the model, variations such as manual vs automatic transmission, tire choice, and whether the car is stock or modified can shift these numbers by a half-second or more.


What influences 0-60 times on these cars


Times are not just about engine output. Several factors can make a big difference in real-world testing, including the type of transmission, torque delivery, gearing, driver skill, and track conditions.



  • Transmission: manual vs automatic can alter 0-60 by about a half-second or more, due to shift speed and gearing.

  • Traction: tire compound, tire width, and surface grip dramatically affect launch grip and acceleration.

  • Weight: factors like optional equipment, fuel load, and passenger weight influence acceleration.

  • Powertrain tuning: different model years and variants (GT, Mach 1, Cobra) have different horsepower and torque curves.

  • Weather and track: ambient temperature and altitude, as well as surface conditions, influence traction and engine performance.


Understanding these elements helps explain why two different cars from the same model year can show different 0-60 times on the same day.


Editor's note: data sources


Official factory specifications rarely quote a 0-60 time. Automotive publications from the era—such as Car and Driver, Motor Trend, and enthusiasts’ testing—produced times that reflect real-world accelerations with the cars configured as they were sold (stock tires, standard gearing, and typical features). When discussing 0-60, it’s common to present a range rather than a single number to reflect test variability and model differences.


Summary


The 1999–2004 Mustang lineup spans a broad performance spectrum. If you’re shopping, a V6 model will likely land in the high-singles to around 8 seconds, while GTs hover around the mid-5-second mark. The Mach 1 sits near the top of the mid-range, and Cobra variants—especially the Terminator cars from 2003–2004—lead the pack with roughly 4.0–4.5 second 0-60 times. Real-world results depend on transmission, tires, and track conditions.

Are 2004 Mustangs fast?


Ford Mustang Mach I (2004) – 151 MPH – One of the Fastest Ford Mustangs. One of the fastest Mustang variants was the 2004 Mach I. It featured a 4.6-liter V8 engine with more power than the standard GT and hit 60 mph in less time (4.6 seconds) – a marked improvement on the GT's 5.4-second sprint to speed!



How much horsepower does a 2004 Mustang GT 4.6 have?


The 2004 Mustang GT's 4.6L SOHC V8 engine has 260 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. This is different from the higher-performance versions, such as the Mach 1, which had a 305 hp 4.6L 4-valve engine, and the Cobra, which had a supercharged 4.6L 4-valve engine with 390 horsepower.
 

  • Standard GT: 260 hp @ 5,250 rpm and 302 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm. 
  • Mach 1: 305 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500 rpm. 
  • SVT Cobra: 390 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 390 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500 rpm. 



How much horsepower does a 1999 2004 Mustang have?


Mustang Cobra (1999, 2001, and 2003–2004)
The Cobra model returned for 1999 with its 32-valve 4.6 L V8, now rated at 320 hp (239 kW; 324 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 317 lb⋅ft (430 N⋅m) of torque at 4,750 rpm.



How fast is a 2004 Mustang GT 0-60?


A 2004 Ford Mustang GT's 0-60 mph time is approximately 5.4 seconds for a manual transmission coupe. This can vary slightly depending on the transmission and body style, with the automatic convertible being slightly slower at around 6.1 seconds. 

  • Manual Coupe: 5.4 seconds
  • Automatic Convertible: 6.1 seconds


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.