What model is a fox body?
The term "Fox Body" refers to a specific platform of vehicles produced by Ford Motor Company between 1978 and 1993. Known for its lightweight design and versatility, the Fox Body platform became iconic, particularly for its use in the Ford Mustang during this era. In this article, we’ll explore what makes the Fox Body unique, its history, and why it remains a favorite among car enthusiasts today.
What is the Fox Body Platform?
The Fox Body is a unibody chassis platform developed by Ford. It was named after Ford's internal code name for the project, "Fox." This platform was designed to be lightweight, affordable, and adaptable, making it suitable for a variety of vehicle types. While the Ford Mustang is the most famous car built on the Fox Body platform, other models, such as the Ford Fairmont, Mercury Capri, and Lincoln Continental Mark VII, also utilized this design.
The Fox Body Mustang: A Legend is Born
When people refer to a "Fox Body," they are often talking about the Ford Mustang produced between 1979 and 1993. This generation of Mustangs is beloved for its performance potential, affordability, and classic styling. Here are some key highlights of the Fox Body Mustang:
- Lightweight Design: The Fox Body Mustang was significantly lighter than its predecessors, making it a favorite for performance enthusiasts.
- Engine Options: It offered a variety of engines, from economical inline-4s to powerful V8s, including the legendary 5.0L V8.
- Aftermarket Support: The Fox Body Mustang has one of the largest aftermarket communities, with countless options for customization and performance upgrades.
- Racing Heritage: Its lightweight and powerful engine options made it a popular choice for drag racing and other motorsports.
Why is the Fox Body Still Popular Today?
Even decades after its production ended, the Fox Body remains a favorite among car enthusiasts. Here’s why:
- Affordability: Fox Body Mustangs are relatively inexpensive compared to other classic cars, making them accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts.
- Customization Potential: The platform's simplicity and robust aftermarket support make it easy to modify for performance, aesthetics, or both.
- Nostalgia: For many, the Fox Body represents a golden era of American muscle cars, evoking memories of the 1980s and early 1990s.
- Performance: With the right upgrades, a Fox Body Mustang can compete with modern sports cars in terms of speed and handling.
Conclusion
The Fox Body is more than just a car platform; it’s a cultural icon. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or new to the world of automotive history, the Fox Body Mustang and its siblings offer a fascinating glimpse into Ford’s innovative design and engineering during the late 20th century. If you’re considering a project car or simply want to own a piece of automotive history, the Fox Body is an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a car a fox body?
In contrast to the full-size Fords and Mercurys of the time, the Fox platform used unibody construction. The Fox platform used MacPherson strut front suspension, continuing the use of a live rear axle suspension configuration.
Is the SN95 a Foxbody?
Like most comparisons, the answer is “it depends.” The SN95 and Fox are essentially the same car underneath and the same basic methods for increasing performance work for both cars, but they have different starting and ending points.
Why do they call it Foxbody?
The chassis they are built on is the fox chassis as well as a bunch of other cars but the mustang was the most popular obviously so people started calling it the fox body because that's the body that best matched the chassis.
What years are the SN95 Mustang?
The SN95 Mustang is Ford's fourth generation of the original ponycar, produced between 1994 and 2004, also sometimes referred to as the Fox-4 Mustang. The second half of SN95 Mustang production, called the New Edge Mustang (1999-2004), was treated to a dramatic restyle.
Is a 94 Mustang a Foxbody?
The third-generation Mustang was manufactured and marketed by Ford from 1979–1993, using the company's Fox platform and colloquially called the Fox body Mustang.
Is a 94 Mustang a Fox Body?
The third-generation Mustang was manufactured and marketed by Ford from 1979–1993, using the company's Fox platform and colloquially called the Fox body Mustang.
What does SN95 stand for?
SN95 is Ford's internal code name for the fourth-generation Mustang. 'S' stands for Small/Specialty Market, 'N' for North American Operations, and 95 is the sequence number of approved vehicle projects.
What model is a Foxbody?
The Fox Body Mustang is the third generation of Ford's iconic muscle car, lasting from 1979 to 1993. They're referred to as the Fox Body Mustangs since they used the new Fox platform. As one of the longest-running generations, the Fox Body saw quite a few major changes over the years.
What is the difference between a 1984 and 1985 Mustang?
Between 1984 and 1985, no real changes were made to the Mustang's engine and transmission options. The one major engine change was that the Turbo GT's four-cylinder was no longer available. The SVO's turbo engine got a mid-year tune-up.
Is a 1990 Mustang a Fox Body?
The third-generation Mustang was manufactured and marketed by Ford from 1979–1993, using the company's Fox platform and colloquially called the Fox body Mustang.
