1993 Ford Mustang Cobra - Top Fox

As we continue to observe and report on the Mustang hobby, it's apparent that another generation of Mustangs is beginning to gain collectible status. After the final '73 model rolled off the assembly line, the era of vintage Mustangs was considered over. And while the Mustang IIs kept the flame alive, real excitement returned with the first '82 Fox-body Mustang GT.

The interest cranked up another notch when the aerodynamically styled '87 Fox 5.0s debuted with desirable performance pieces such as 8.8-inch rear axles, EEC-IV fuel injection, and true dual exhaust, all of which were introduced on the '86 models.

After seven years of aerobody Mustangs, the Fox era ended with the introduction of the SN-95 Mustang in 1994. Now that '87 5.0s are 20 years old, the more desirable models of the '87-'93 era are becoming collectibles. While early-'90s 5.0 LX coupes and hatchbacks are growing more coveted as time goes by, the clear leader in the collectible Fox Mustang arena is the '93 Cobra. Often considered the best of the factory 5.0 Mustangs, the '93 Cobras were designed and executed by Ford's newly created Special Vehicle Team (SVT).

With all sorts of factory 5.0 firsts-four-wheel disc brakes, 17-inch wheels, GT-40 cylinder heads, a better intake manifold, a 65mm throttle body, and a clean body package unique to this one-year-only Fox model-the '93 Cobra was destined to be a collectible right off the showroom floor. This fact was not lost on Michael Guerassimoff, the original owner of the Vibrant Red '93 Cobra shown here. We caught up with him at the All-Ford Nationals in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where he brought the car to our attention after driving it from Erie, Pennsylvania.

As with any vintage Mustang that is more valuable when kept relatively stock, Michael has wisely maintained his Cobra in mostly original condition. Easily reversible mods include a BBK cold-air kit and K&N conical filter inside the fender, Ford Racing 9mm red plug wires, a Pro 5.0 shifter, a Hypertech chip, and a pair of Flowmaster mufflers.

At the front, the chrome factory 17x7.5-inch four-lug wheels are home to BFGoodrich Comp T/A ZR tires in the stock 245/45ZR17 size. Out back, Michael filled the rear wheelwells with larger 275/40ZR17 Comp T/As.

Now that '93 Cobras have aged similar to the way '65 Mustangs did in 1979, it's fair to say these Fox SVT Cobras are well on their way to true classic status. And when it's as clean as Michael's, you can truly call this one a "Top Fox."