Bottom line up front: From 1968 to 1970 Ford put its 428‑Cobra‑Jet V8 under the hoods of a handful of muscle cars, trucks and wagons, making them some of the most powerful street machines of the era.
Every Car Powered by Ford’s 428 Cobra Jet – Models, Specs & Legacy
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Image: Every Car Powered by Ford’s 428 Cobra Jet – Models, Specs & Legacy – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The 428 Cobra Jet (CJ) was a beefed‑up version of the regular 428 V8. Ford gave it a distinctive “Cobra Jet” badge on the rocker cover, a functional hood scoop on many models, and a heavy‑duty intake. The engine’s iron block and forged‑steel crankshaft let it handle high‑rpm power without breaking.
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Performance & Mileage
Rated at 335 hp and 440 lb‑ft of torque, the CJ could launch a 1969 Mustang from 0‑60 mph in under 7 seconds. Fuel‑economy was modest – roughly 12‑14 mpg city and 16‑18 mpg highway – typical for a big‑block muscle engine.
Price & Rivals
When new, the CJ‑powered cars carried a premium of $5,500‑$6,000 over the base model. They competed with Chevrolet’s 427 LT and the Dodge 440 Magnum, each offering similar power but different styling cues.
Models that wore the 428 Cobra Jet
- 1968‑1970 Ford Mustang (Mach 1 and “Cobra Jet” package)
- 1968‑1970 Ford Torino (GT and “Cobra Jet” option)
- 1968‑1970 Mercury Cyclone (including Spoiler II)
- 1968‑1970 Ford Ranchero and Mercury Comet (select trims)
- 1968‑1970 Ford Fairlane (high‑performance versions)
| Engine | Mileage (city/hwy) | Price (US$) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 428 Cobra Jet V8 | 12‑14 / 16‑18 mpg | $5,500‑$6,000 |
|
FAQ
What was the fuel economy of a car with the 428 Cobra Jet?
Typical mileage was about 12‑14 mpg in the city and 16‑18 mpg on the highway, reflecting its big‑block size.
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Is a 428 Cobra Jet car worth buying today?
For collectors, the CJ’s rarity and raw power make it a desirable classic. Daily drivers should consider the thirst for fuel and maintenance costs.
Which cars were equipped with the 428 Cobra Jet?
The engine appeared in the 1968‑1970 Ford Mustang, Ford Torino, Mercury Cyclone, Ford Ranchero, Mercury Comet and select Fairlane models.
What do you think about the 428 Cobra Jet’s legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Source: Read Official News