Now for the third time now, Ford Racing has built a limited run of 2012 Cobra Jet Mustangs. The NHRA-legal race car can also be used in IHRA and NMRA classes. Packed with an all-aluminum 5.4-liter modular motor, a choice of superchargers is available.

The 2.3-liter TVS supercharger pumps the output level to 430 flywheel HP, while the 4.0-liter Whipple blower makes 500 HP out of what its given. The engine is also modified with Manley H-beam connecting rods and a double keyed crankshaft snout.

Since its legendary introduction at the NHRA Winternationals in 1968, the Cobra Jet Mustang has created a legacy of power and performance that is carried on through its contemporary descendants. The first of the modern Cobra Jet cars, introduced in 2008, took the NHRA Winternationals victory in its inaugural race.

Another limited edition run of Cobra Jet Mustangs was announced in 2010, has been competitive in racing across the country, setting a number of class records along the way. In addition to the modified V8 engine, the 2012 edition features a race-prepared automatic transmission, drag-specific shocks and springs, manual steering and brakes, 8.50-certified roll cage and Aeromotive return-style fuel system with trunk-mounted fuel cell.

The 50-unit run was recently completed on the niche build line at the Auto Alliance International assembly plant in Flat Rock, MI, and have started arriving at Ford Racing authorized dealerships. So, what does the 2012 Ford Mustang Cobra Jet sound like from a cold start? Thanks to Karl Flammer Ford in Tarpon Springs, Florida, we get the rare opportunity to listen to this motor purr!

It won’t be long before that same throaty bark will be heard at race tracks across the country.