2001 Ford Mustang
The 2001 Ford Mustang introduced the Bullitt GT tribute to the 1968 movie car and brought back the 320 hp SVT Cobra.
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2001 Ford Mustang Bullitt. Photo: kieranwhite599 via Flickr, CC BY 2.0.
Overview
The 2001 Ford Mustang is best remembered for the Bullitt, a special GT inspired by Steve McQueen’s 1968 movie car. Following the 2000 Ford Mustang, the lineup also welcomed back the SVT Cobra, and the whole range received an updated interior.
The Bullitt was a mildly upgraded GT with a lowered, retuned suspension, Tokico shocks, Cobra brakes, unique wheels, revised side scoops and a brushed aluminum fuel door. Its 4.6-liter V8 was rated at about 265 horsepower, slightly more than the standard GT’s 260. Ford built 5,582 Bullitt coupes, most famously in Dark Highland Green.
The SVT Cobra returned with its 4.6-liter DOHC V8 rated at about 320 horsepower, and the base 3.8-liter V6 gained Intake Manifold Runner Control and rose to about 193 horsepower. Inside, a redesigned dashboard allowed double-DIN stereos, including an in-dash six-CD player.
Total production was 163,818 cars. With the Bullitt and the returning Cobra, 2001 is one of the most interesting years of the New Edge era. For more background, see the fourth-generation Mustang history, or compare it with the classic 1968 Ford Mustang that inspired the Bullitt.
2001 Mustang timeline
- 1999Earlier development
- 2000Previous model year
- 2001Featured model year
- 2002Continued evolution
Engine options
| Engine | Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel / induction | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8L (232 cu in) Essex | V6 | Approx. 193 hp | Sequential fuel injection, IMRC | Base engine | |
| 4.6L SOHC modular | V8 | Approx. 260–265 hp | Sequential fuel injection | GT and Bullitt (265 hp) | |
| 4.6L DOHC SVT Cobra | V8 | Approx. 320 hp | Sequential fuel injection | SVT Cobra |
Specifications at a glance
Production
- V6 Coupe75,321 (46.0%)
- V6 Convertible30,399 (18.6%)
- GT Coupe26,929 (16.4%)
- GT Convertible18,336 (11.2%)
- Bullitt Coupe5,582 (3.4%)
- SVT Cobra Coupe3,384 (2.1%)
- SVT Cobra Convertible3,867 (2.4%)
Dimensions
Original colors
Color research in progress.
Performance
Buyer’s guide highlights
- Check the floors, rear frame rails, rocker panels and strut towers for rust and accident damage.
- Verify a claimed Bullitt or SVT Cobra with documentation, since both are often copied.
- Check Bullitt-specific parts such as the wheels, side scoops, fuel door and interior trim.
- Listen for timing chain noise and check the intake manifold on 4.6-liter V8s.
- Inspect convertible tops, seals and floors for leaks.
- Buy on condition and originality, since special models carry a premium.
1. Check for Rust and Accident Damage
Look at the floors, rear frame rails, rocker panels and strut towers of any 2001 Ford Mustang, and check for signs of accident repair.
2. Authenticate the Bullitt
The Bullitt is the most collectible 2001 model. Check the VIN and paperwork, and confirm Bullitt-specific parts such as the wheels, side scoops, fuel door and interior details.
3. Authenticate the SVT Cobra
Check the SVT paperwork, DOHC engine and independent rear suspension on any claimed Cobra.
4. Check the Engine
Listen for timing chain noise on 4.6-liter V8s and check for intake manifold leaks.
5. Buy the Best Example You Can
Original, low-mileage Bullitts and Cobras are the best long-term buys.
Values
2001 Ford Mustang values are highest for documented Bullitt coupes and SVT Cobras, while V6 and GT models remain affordable.
Market references are research guides, not appraisals. Actual value depends on condition, originality, documentation, drivetrain, options, location and current buyer demand.
