1996 Ford Mustang SVT Cobra – A Mystic Icon with Just 22K Miles

In the mid-1990s, Ford’s Special Vehicle Team (SVT) was in full stride, and the 1996 Mustang Cobra represented a significant leap forward. It was the first Cobra to benefit from Ford’s all-new aluminum DOHC 4.6-liter Modular V8—a departure from the previous 5.0-liter pushrod setup. With its high-revving nature and factory-rated 305 horsepower, the 1996 SVT Cobra helped usher in a modern era of Mustang performance. But what truly set this Cobra apart was its optional, limited-edition Mystic paint—an innovative color that shifted hues in the sunlight, from green to purple to blue. Ford produced just 1,999 of these Mystic Cobras, making them an instant collectible.

This particular 1996 Mustang SVT Cobra, VIN 1FALP47V6TF154642, is a well-preserved time capsule with only 22,371 actual miles and a clean history across four careful owners. Born in February 1996 at the Dearborn assembly plant and originally delivered to Woody Anderson Ford in Huntsville, Alabama, this car has been pampered throughout its life, as evidenced by its clean undercarriage, original light assemblies, and a well-documented service record.

It retains its original matching-numbers 4.6L DOHC V8 engine, which runs strong and sounds fantastic thanks to tasteful exhaust upgrades: Bassani X-pipe, aftermarket high-flow catalytic converters, and Flowmaster mufflers with full tailpipes. The exhaust note is deep and throaty—an ideal pairing with the high-revving character of the 4-cam motor. The factory T-45 5-speed manual transmission is still in place and now enhanced with a short-throw shifter for a more engaging driving experience (the original shifter is included).

Painted in its original and rare LF code Mystic, this Cobra still wears its factory finish, which shows well and maintains a vibrant, shifting color in different light. All factory VIN tags remain intact. The car sits on the correct 17" Cobra five-spoke aluminum wheels wrapped in fresh 245/45 Nitto NT555 performance tires (dated 2024). The OE wheels show some minor curb rash, a testament to their originality.

Inside, the cabin features the original 4J code black leather interior with supportive bucket seats, a power 4-way driver’s seat, and manual passenger seat. The Mach 460 sound system—featuring both a Ford AM/FM radio and separate CD player—still delivers rich audio, while modern comfort features like cold-blowing factory A/C, cruise control, tilt wheel, and power accessories add to its usability.

Mechanically, this Cobra is as tight as they come. The car was recently inspected at PC Classic Cars and received high marks across the board: strong battery and charging system, fresh fluids, and properly functioning systems throughout—from lights and wipers to power locks and mirrors. A strut tower brace, aluminum radiator with electric fan, and Kenny Brown weld-in subframe connectors add a touch of performance-oriented enhancement while keeping with the car’s overall original character.

This Cobra’s backstory is clean and straightforward. According to the CarFax report, it has no accidents or damage on record and passed through corporate and personal hands in states like Alabama, Colorado, Pennsylvania, and most recently, Virginia. It was last titled in Hanover, Virginia, in early 2023.

The Deluxe Marti Report confirms this SVT Cobra’s factory specifications, including its rare color and production timeline. Notably, this car is one of only 1,990 produced with both Mystic paint and black leather interior. Built on February 13, 1996, this example came well-optioned with a 3.27 Traction-Lok rear axle, anti-lock brakes, keyless entry, and heavy-duty fuel pump, to name just a few highlights.

With its low mileage, rare color, original drivetrain, clean ownership history, and well-chosen enhancements, this 1996 SVT Cobra Mystic is more than just a car—it’s a preserved chapter in Mustang performance history.

At PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, every vehicle is treated with the care and attention it deserves. With a passion for preserving classic American icons and a reputation built on trust, PC Classic Cars remains a premier destination for collectors and enthusiasts alike.