1990, SAFETY FIRST!

For 1990, the interior of the TGM was brought up to current safety standards by the addition of a driver's side air bag. As a result of the air bag, tilt steering was no longer an option. Minor cosmetic changes included the deletion of the center console armrest and the addition of map pockets located in the lower door trim panels. Also, the 5.0 engine received a minor camshaft change yet again, but without compromising power output. Lastly, 4,103 limited edition LX convertibles were offered in mid-year. These emerald green convertibles borrowed the GT's wheels and came standard with white leather interiors.

Horsepower : 225 BHP   @ 4200 RPM
Torque     : 300 Ft-Lb @ 3200 RPM
Base Price : $12,222  (2-door LX coupe)
Total Cars Produced : 128,189
5.0L Cars (non GT)  :  44,851  *First year LXs outnumber GTs
     GT Cars        :  34,435

1990 Happenings:
The Berlin wall is knocked down and Germany is united.
The Kuwait government is overthrown by invading Iraqi troops.

1991, FIVE SPOKE (PONY) RIMS!

By 1991, the third-generation Mustang had matured and was enjoying success on many levels. Aftermarket parts suppliers were popping-up everywhere, traditional "Chevy" magazines labeled the TGM as the '57 Chevy of the 90s, and the 5.0 badge had become synonymous with the third-generation Mustang V-8. Also, by this time, Ford was content with the progress it had made with the TGM and did not introduce major changes in '92 and '93.

The Camaro also had a 5.0, but it paled in comparison to the Mustang's high-revving, tire-chirping, stop-light dragging, 302 cubic inch, good ole American, Ford powered, push-rod V-8! The introduction of new 16" five-spoke "Pony" rims came standard on 5.0 LX and GT models. (The front fenders around the wheel wells were redesigned to accommodate the new larger tires.) The only new option for 1991 was a cargo tie-down net.

The five-spoke "Pony rims" are by far the most common retrofit parts for 1990 and earlier third-generation Mustangs.

Horsepower : 225 BHP   @ 4200 RPM
Torque     : 300 Ft-Lb @ 3200 RPM
Base Price : $13,815  (2-door coupe)
Total Cars Produced :  98,737
5.0L Cars (non GT)  :  27,880  *Last year LXs out numnber GTs.
     GT Cars        :  24,428

1991 Happenings:
Russia collapses after Communist sympathizers attempt to overthrow Gorbachev.
The Persian Gulf War begins on January 16 with air sorties. The land war begins on February 23.

1992, SAME OLE, SAME OLE!

There was little change for 1992; only minor enhancements were implemented. These included optional 4-way power adjustable seats, color keyed body-side moldings, and a new interior dome light. A run of 2,019 limited edition 5.0 LX convertibles were sold as 1992 1/2 models. These cars featured vibrant red paint, white leather interiors, and rear deck spoilers in place of the luggage rack.

Horsepower : 225 BHP   @ 4200 RPM
Torque     : 300 Ft-Lb @ 3200 RPM
Base Price : $13,422 (2-door coupe)
Total Cars Produced :  79,280
5.0L Cars (non GT)  :  19,131
     GT Cars        :  20,445

1992 Happenings:
Bill Clinton is elected president.
The Los Angeles riots are sparked due to the acquittal of four police officers.