What should I consider when thinking about a Terminator Cobra in 2024-2025?

I’ve always had a soft spot for these cars, but it’s tough to justify the rising price of 30k when you could get a more modern car on the same platform for the same money. Power isn’t my main concern. I love that they come with forged internals from the factory, so I could add nitrous or whatever else I want, within reason. Honestly, 600-700hp would be perfect for me. I know just a pulley upgrade and tune can get it to around 500hp, which would also make me happy. What really draws me in is the screaming supercharger sound, IRS, RWD, and the V8. Plus, they’re quite rare. I’d love to take it to the track or shows and stand out. I know it’s not a Ferrari, but I think it’s a better option than my current Focus ST or going for a 5.0 or 3V.

I’m curious what arguments could be made against this choice. I’ve mostly heard good things about owning one, nothing too crazy or bad. I see it as more of a weekend race car while my Focus remains my daily driver.

Over the last decade, I’ve seen many cars I wanted soar in value from being somewhat affordable to just crazy expensive. Cars like the S2000, RX-7, Supra, and others have become quite the investment. The Terminator has quickly become a classic, and as we move further away from that era and those big V8s, I don’t think their prices will drop anytime soon. Waiting might not be the best option.

I bet a lot of people would suggest going for an S550 instead. They’re usually cheaper, quieter, smoother, and have better interiors. Plus, you get to join the 5.bro club.

But honestly, it’s hard to find faults with those muscle machines. With an aftermarket blower, there’s no limit to what they can do, and they take off like a rocket. Sure, the interior can be a bit squeaky, and launching with drag radials can snap axles and input shafts if you’re pushing a lot of power. But those issues can easily be fixed with some upgrades. I really enjoy this generation of Mustangs; they feel lighter and more nimble than the newer models while still offering a solid interior and a great connection to the road.

That weight aspect is definitely a factor for me too. I’m not worried about N/A cars keeping pace. It’s an older car, so it is what it is. I just love that supercharger sound and the roaring V8. Personally, I prefer the sound of the 4.6 over the 5.0, and the IRS is a big selling point for me compared to the 13-14 S197, which is my favorite body style.

I totally agree, the 4.6 has a better sound than the 5.0. When I had mine set up with a ported blower and long tubes, it was one of the best-sounding cars I’ve ever driven. The IRS can be tricky for drag launches, but it makes the car super agile in corners.

It will definitely see some quarter-mile action, but I plan to use it mostly as a track car.

Why do folks keep saying the SN95 is lighter? The curb weight is around 3665-3780 lbs compared to 3401-3601 for the S197. Am I missing something?

You’ve got it backward there.

I hope I ain’t wrong by saying that @RayCharles Charles