2002 Ford Mustang
The 2002 Ford Mustang offered V6 and 260 hp GT models in Deluxe and Premium trim, with no U.S.-market SVT Cobra.
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2002 Ford Mustang GT. Photo: kieranwhite599 via Flickr, CC BY 2.0.
Overview
The 2002 Ford Mustang was a steady carryover year in the New Edge era. After the Bullitt and Cobra headlines of the 2001 Ford Mustang, Ford offered a simpler U.S. lineup of V6 and GT models in coupe and convertible form, with Deluxe and Premium trim levels.
The base 3.8-liter V6 was rated at about 193 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque, while the GT’s 4.6-liter SOHC V8 continued at about 260 horsepower. Buyers could choose a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, and the updated interior with double-DIN stereo carried over from 2001.
There was no SVT Cobra for U.S. buyers in 2002. Only about 100 Cobras were built, and all of them were shipped to Australia. SVT was busy preparing the supercharged 2003 Cobra, which would become one of the most famous Mustangs of the era.
Ford built 142,647 Mustangs for 2002. With solid V6 and GT models and no special editions, the 2002 car is a practical choice for buyers who want New Edge styling and modular V8 power at a reasonable price. For more background, see the fourth-generation Mustang history, or compare it with the classic 1967 Ford Mustang.
2002 Mustang timeline
- 2000Earlier development
- 2001Previous model year
- 2002Featured model year
- 2003Continued evolution
Engine options
| Engine | Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel / induction | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8L (232 cu in) Essex | V6 | Approx. 193 hp | Approx. 225 lb-ft | Sequential fuel injection | Base engine |
| 4.6L SOHC modular | V8 | Approx. 260 hp | Sequential fuel injection | GT engine |
Specifications at a glance
Production
- V6 Coupe67,090 (47.0%)
- V6 Convertible24,747 (17.3%)
- GT Coupe33,093 (23.2%)
- GT Convertible17,717 (12.4%)
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.
- Confirm a GT with the VIN engine code, since many V6 cars have been dressed up.
- Listen for timing chain noise and check the intake manifold on the 4.6-liter V8.
- Check the V6 for intake and head gasket leaks.
- Inspect convertible tops, seals and floors for leaks.
- Buy on condition and originality, since many New Edge cars have been modified.
1. Check for Rust and Accident Damage
Look at the floors, rear frame rails, rocker panels and strut towers of any 2002 Ford Mustang, and check for signs of accident repair.
2. Confirm the Model
Check the VIN engine code to confirm a genuine GT. Deluxe and Premium trims differ in equipment, so compare the car with its window sticker if possible.
3. Check the Engine
Listen for timing chain noise on the 4.6-liter V8 and look for coolant leaks around the intake manifold. On V6 cars, check for oil and coolant leaks.
4. Inspect Convertibles and Interiors
Check convertible tops, seals and floors, and look for worn seats and dash wear.
5. Buy the Best Example You Can
Clean, unmodified cars are the best buys and are becoming harder to find.
Values
2002 Ford Mustang values are modest, with clean, low-mileage GT coupes and convertibles bringing the most interest.
Market references are research guides, not appraisals. Actual value depends on condition, originality, documentation, drivetrain, options, location and current buyer demand.
