1979 Ford Mustang
The 1979 Mustang was available initially in a two-door notchback and a three-door hatchback model. Four basic versions of the Ford Mustang were available: base model and Ghia model for the hatchback and sedan body. Ghia version was a luxury trim oriented model. This was the first year of the Fox Mustangs.
1979 Ford Mustang Engine options included four choices:
- 2.3 liter inline SOHC 4cyl
- 2.3 liter inline 4cyl turbocharged
- 2.8 liter Cologne V-6
- 5.0 liter 140-hp 302ci two-barrel V-8
The 2.6 liter V-6 was later dropped and not used again after 1979. It would be replaced with the 3.3 liter 200ci inline six-cylinder in 1980, although some late 79 Mustangs did get the 3.3 liter. The 2.3 liter inline 4cyl turbocharged engine breathed through a two-barrel Holley/Weber 5200-series carburetor. California Mustangs used an electronic feedback version of the carb. The turbo was a Garrett AiResearch TO3 turbocharger, 6 PSI boost maximum.
Along with the new 5.0 liter V-8, the 1979 Mustang was the first model to use the 5.0 badge. This engine is what the reference “five-oh” stands for. The electronic engine management controls were also updated, designated EEC-II. The Mustang 5.0 liter engine used a two-barrel carburetor with an aluminum intake. New features for the 1979 Mustang 5.0 engine included a new water pump and a fiberglass-reinforced single V-ribbed drive belt system. Ford reduced the size of the cross-sectional intake ports in 1979. This resulted in restricted breathing for the new small block, and a disappointing 140-hp.
Transmission options for the 1979 turbocharged 2.3 liter engine included only one. A wide ratio with 4.07, 2.57, 1.66, 1.00:1 gears, T-04 four-speed manual transmission. Mustangs with the turbo engine were equipped with a nonfunctional plastic hood scoop that included the “Turbo” identification. A boost pressure gauge was not included with the package, instead a green dash light indicated when boost is on and a red light (with warning buzzer) indicated when overboost occurs.
The 5.0 liter V-8 transmission options were: a 4-speed SROD manual transmission and a 3-speed C-4 automatic transmission. The 1979 Ford Mustang used a 7.5-inch rear end.
The Mustang body had a few new upgrades including the Sport option which added a blackout to the window frames, rocker panels and body trim and molding. Hood changes varied according to the engine size and model of the Mustang.
The suspension for 1979 Mustangs was a modified MacPherson struts in front and four-link suspension system with live rear axle in the back. 1979 Mustangs were the first Mustang model to be built with all coil springs in the suspension system. Three levels were offered in the Fox Mustang: The standard system, handling version, and TRX handling system. The handling version added heavy-duty springs and shocks, firm bushings, and a rear stabilizer bar. The TRX system included special components for the suspension, wheels, and tires.
Brakes weren’t changed much for 1979 Mustangs, although some came with aluminum rear brake drums to improve handling by reducing weight.
Mustang interiors included a Fairmont dashboard with two large gauges and four small gauges and an imitation wood grain dash style. An optional console included a non-locking storage area, digital clock, and illuminated graphic display. Six sound systems were available in the 1979 Mustangs with an optional 12-watt amplifier.
Non-adjustable bucket seats were available initially, used from the Mustang II line. Orthopedically designed reclining Recaro front seats were available optional from mid-year.
Different styles of 14-inch wheels were offered on 1979 Mustangs: Standard stamped-steel 14×5, argent-finished styled-steel 14×5, and cast-aluminum 14×5.5 wheel. Stamped-steel 14×5.5-inch rims were optional in 1979.
