Ford Mustang FAQs

The 1979 Mustang was designed with a completely new framework. This framework was shorter and was the same one used on the Ford Fairmont “Fox” that was released in 1978. This framework had a uni-body structure like past Mustangs but there was very little else that even resembled other Mustang generations.  The new generation Mustang’s front suspension was a modified MacPherson strut system that was completely new. It boasted a mounted spring that actually separated the strut and the rear end was supported by a new link and coil rear spring suspension. This suspension system was introduced in 1979 and would stay in place an amazing 24 years until the 2003 model year.

The engine options that were available on the Mustang II in 1978 were also available on the 1979 Mustang. These included the 2.3 liter SOHC with 88 horsepower, the 2.8 liter Cologne V6 with 109 horsepower and then the 4.9 liter V8 with a respectable 140 horsepower. It should be noted that although the V8 had 4.9 liters Mustang called it 5.0 liters. In addition to these three engine options a turbocharged version that also sported 140 horsepower was available although it had a major lag in boost and was not as reliable as Ford had hoped. Later in the 1979 model year Ford introduced the 3.3 liter OHV with 94 horsepower. All of the engines were available with standard four speed manual transmissions. Three speed automatic transmissions were also available on all engines.

More than 150,000 more Mustangs were sold in 1979 than in 1978 so it was obvious to Ford they got something right. There was still no convertible available and one would not be available until 1983.  While the exterior of the new Mustang was really stylish and full of angles it was not like the Mustang designs that came before. Four chrome wrapped square headlights were situated to the sides of the flatter grille and six taillight segments were used instead of three. The rear end sported thick taillights that continued through to the corner panels. Also, the sides of the new Mustang did not sport the side scallops the vehicle was known for. The fenders were flared and the grille still sported the egg crate style. The resulting look was a sporty vehicle that could hold its own.

The Indy pace car replica had a styling all its own and although only 6,000 were produced it was one of the most popular Mustangs of 1979. The hood scoop and rear spoiler were all unique to the replica and it was painted pewter and black with orange accents. The replica pace cars were available with the turbo four or the V8 and both included the TRX wheels and tires.

The Mustang Cobra was available in 1979 after being carried over from the Mustang II. It sported the traditional Mustang egg crate grille. The louvers on the rear window were the same color as the exterior and the rest of the lower exterior was black. The hatchback Cobra also boasted a fake hood scoop.  The exterior colors available were black, tangerine, bright blue, silver metallic, bright red, red glow, bright yellow, polar white, dark jade metallic, medium vaquero gold, light chamois, medium gray metallic, light medium blue, medium chestnut metallic, and medium blue glow.

The 1979 Mustang had much more interior space than all the rest of the other Mustangs. The reason for the increased space was due to the cockpit being positioned more upright and doors that were flatter that provided additional hip and shoulder room for passengers.  The 1979 Mustang was incredibly popular with the consumers especially after the Mustang II. Many additional models were produced in 1979 and the entire public seemed enchanted with the new Mustang, especially the replica pace cars. Ford was relieved at its success and the future was looking up once again for the Ford Mustang.