In 1968 Ford Introduced Us to the Monster 1968 Mustang Cobra Jet

The 1968 Mustang experienced a performance facelift. Ford replaced the 225hp V-8 with a 302 cubic inch engine that was rated at 230hp. The 390 cubic inch motor was boosted to 325hp to take over the ‘67 model that was 320hp.

There was very little that was changed in the Mustang body. The long hood and short rear deck did not change. However, some safety features were incorporated per government regulations. Special editions highly complex options packages were offered to buyers.

The Mustang Cobra Jet

The Mustang took a significant performance turn in April 1968. The 1968 Mustang offered a powerful 428 cubic inch engine, which packed a 335hp punch and was introduced in the Mustang Cobra Jet. It was the Cobra that eventually overtook the Shelby in popularity. This is what started the Shelby’s decline after 1968.

In 1968, a Federal mandate caused the Mustang to get side marker lights. That, with the revised grille, are what distinguished the ‘68 from the ‘67. Buyers of the 1968 Mustang convertible were offered the option of a power top and folding glass window.

Nevertheless, it was the big, glamorous engines like the 427 and 428 cubic inch that set the 68 Mustang apart from the rest and solidified its devout fan base. Replacing the small V8s, these were versions of the “big block” V8. It was the beginning of the big engines with which with the Mustang would soon come to be associated.