2003 Anni Clutch

[Zapper]

Has anyone compared the 2003 Anniversary model's clutch to thte 2003 non anniversary clutch foot pressure. The pressure seems to be quite less on the anni model. Is this indicative of a second run ? third run ? refinement ?

I have also seen a number of postings talking about an 04 Cobra with no mechanical changes. Is the 10th Anniversary the beginning of the manufacturing run of the 2004's ? Could the Anniversary model have all of the mechanical refinements that SVT wanted to do if there was an 04 model year coming ? Did Ford simply badge this run as an 03 to signify the tenth anniversary ? I am wondering about these questions because why would a 10th anniversary car come out at the end of the model year production, when virtually all other manufacturers ( including Ford ) have begun the 2004 Model Year production.

 

[03cobra#116]

I complained about the stiff clutch a year ago, after I first got the car. I think others complained too.

I read in the trade press months later that Ford was working on softening the clutch. I believe they did soften it and apply the change without any publicity, so those of us with first run cars don't go ask for changes.

My clutch softened on its own, or I got stronger, but it is still stiffer than I would prefer. I get into the Escort my teenagers drive and just about push my foot through the floorboard by habit.

Other owners who have had their first run clutches replaced by the dealer under warranty have written to this forum that the new clutch is less stiff.

My only two complaints with this car are the stiff clutch and the seat bottom that is too narrow for my bottom, especially the left bolster that pushes into my thigh. But those two complaints are overwhelmed by all the great features.

 

[Blades]

I like the stiff clutch, it gives great feel.

 

[03cobra#116]

Originally posted by Blades
I like the stiff clutch, it gives great feel.

Maybe you're not pushing 50.

 

[Blades]

Yeah ur right. I'm pushing 20.

 

[Torch Red 10th]

The clutch on my Anniv. model was extremely stiff when I got it. Stiffer than some other Cobras I test-drove, BUT it is much easier now, broke in very quick. Almost comparable to my GT. I kid you not, it had the stiffest clutch I had ever driven. I almost didn't buy it just because of it. I get stuck in traffic a lot during the week. But now I'm glad I bought it. Took about 500 miles to feel "normal".

 

[CobraBob]

Maybe it's me, but I don't think the clutch is too stiff at all. With all the hype in the reviews when the Cobra first came out about the stiff clutch, I was totally surprised when I actually drove one. Like I said, maybe it's me.