This 2003 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra convertible was modified when new by Ford as a Champ Car World Series pace car and was used as a “Fast Lap” thrill ride vehicle from 2003 to 2007. Power is provided by a supercharged 4.6-liter DOHC V8 linked with a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential, and modifications include a lowered suspension, Koni adjustable dampers, Brembo brake components, Kenny Brown subframe connectors and camber plates, a four-point roll bar, a fire suppression system, racing harnesses, strobe lights, two-way radios, and improved cooling components. Finished in Sonic Blue Clearcoat with period-style Champ Car graphics over Dark Charcoal Nudo leather, the car is further equipped with a black soft top, a style bar, BBS multi-piece wheels, AEM instrumentation, an Alpine head unit, a JLT air intake, an SCT MAF sensor, a BBK throttle body, and a Moroso coolant overflow tank. The car was acquired by the seller in 2022 and subsequent work consisted of installing a factory-style fuel system, replacing the spark plugs, and retuning the ECU. This SVT Cobra convertible has 14k miles and is now offered with a Deluxe Marti Report, historical photos of the car, spare parts, and a clean Wisconsin title in the seller’s name.

From the seller:

In 2003 Ford pulled three Cobras back from dealer inventory in order to build pace cars for the Champ Car World Series. Ford was the sole engine supplier to Champ Car World Series. Two SVT Cobra coupes, one red and one silver, and one blue convertible were converted for pace car use. This blue convertible came from a dealer in Ohio. Ford not only used these cars for pace car duties, but they also used them for their Fast Lap program at the Champ Car World Series races. Fast Lap was an opportunity for a lucky few to experience high speeds on track at these events. This included celebrities, Make-A-Wish recipients, etc. As shown in the pictures, Mario Andretti drove this car, and you can see several celebrities as well. This car was transported all over the globe to the Champ Car World Series races.

The Cobra was distinguished from the contemporary SN95 Mustang by circular front fog lights, and a revised hood, rocker panels, and front and rear fascias. This example is finished in Sonic Blue Clearcoat, and additional equipment includes Champ Car World Series Fast Lap graphics, a power-retractable black soft top, strobe lights, a rear spoiler, black-surround headlights, front brake ducts, dual polished exhaust outlets, and SVT and Cobra badging.

The 17″ BBS multi-piece wheels are mounted with Hankook Ventus V12 Evo2 front and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx rear tires. Modifications include a lowered suspension, Koni adjustable dampers, Brembo front calipers and multipiece rotors, and Kenny Brown subframe connectors and camber plates.

The cabin features articulated front sport seats trimmed in Dark Charcoal Nudo leather with Medium Graphite microsuede inserts and Cobra emblems embroidered into the backrests. Amenities include a Mach 460 AM/FM/cassette stereo with an Alpine head unit as well as a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped shift knob, remote keyless entry, cruise control, air conditioning, and power windows, mirrors, and locks. A custom style bar covers the top of the four-point roll bar and a fire suppression system is installed.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel is mounted to a tilting column and frames white instrument dials including a 160-mph speedometer and an SVT-branded tachometer with a 6,500-rpm redline as well as gauges for fuel level, coolant temperature, boost pressure, and oil pressure. AEM gauges for boost and air fuel ratio are located on the A-pillar. The digital odometer indicates 14k miles, approximately 400 of which were added under current ownership.

The supercharged 4.6-liter DOHC V8 features a cast-iron engine block, aluminum cylinder heads, a forged rotating assembly, and an oil cooler. The car features a blue-finished supercharger, a JLT air intake system, an SCT MAF sensor, a BBK throttle body, and a Moroso coolant overflow tank. Work under current ownership consisted of installing a factory-style fuel tank, fuel pump, and sending unit, replacing the spark plugs, and retuning the car to run on 91-octane fuel.

An October 2022 Dynojet document shows peak output of 483 horsepower and 438 lb-ft of torque a the rear wheels.

The engine is backed by a Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The factory catalysts have been removed, and an aftermarket X-pipe and Flowmaster mufflers are fitted. A differential cooler has also been installed, per the seller.

The Carfax report is free of accident or damage entries, and at least on open recall.