2003 Steeda Q400 Mustang

While the Honda Civic has become known as the '57 Chevy of today, the Mustang is still the Mustang -- an affordable, rear-drive coupe and convertible with great modification potential. Steeda has built its business supporting Mustang street and track enthusiasts by offering an expansive range of go-fast components and cosmetic enhancements. Along the way, Steeda has earned a reputation for offering carefully sorted, well-engineered parts, becoming a supplier to many top-name Ford tuners. The Florida-based company has also become a car and truck builder itself, offering complete packages through an expansive dealer network.

To advance to the next level, Steeda tapped in to the SEMA Technology Initiative, a program launched by the Specialty Equipment Market Association to facilitate the sharing of OEM vehicle data with the aftermarket companies. Through a pilot program, Ford agreed to work with non-original Mustang suppliers to divulge technical data that would enable the affordable development of quality parts and OBD-II-compliant modifications. Two years in development, the Steeda Q400 represents the first complete vehicle to be offered through this program.

Based on a Mustang GT, the Q400 features a relatively traditional roster of components elevating every aspect of performance. Under the bulging hood is a Vortech centrifugal supercharger, K&N Filter Charger, and FRPP 80mm Mass Air Meter with 70mm throttle body. Fuel is supplied via twin Bosch pumps, and the engine exhales through Steeda-spec Borla 2.5-inch stainless pipes and mufflers. For an extra $1000, the customer can choose a Paxton Novi 2000 blower with a higher peak output, as on our test car. This straightforward performance recipe is completed with the most significant element: a reprogrammed computer with software engineered by Ford. Available for any GT from 1999 to present, the computer work is tailored to the specific year and Steeda modifications, ensuring smooth operation and CARB compliance. Most significantly, the data can be read and interpreted by any Ford service center, aiding maintenance and diagnosis.

The standard Q400 package also includes a sport-tuned suspension, Cobra brakes with 13-inch rotors, Steeda short-throw shifter, Steeda Ultra-Lite 18x9-inch wheels, and BFGoodrich GForce T/A 265/40ZR18 tires. The appearance is dressed up with a Steeda Cobra R-style hood, rear wing, and front air splitter outside, with white-face gauges, Steeda shift knob, and custom floormats inside. While this is the traditional package, Steeda builds each car to order, allowing customers to tailor the vehicle to their specific desires and budget. At $10,595 (including labor), the standard Steeda Q400 is priced comparably with the 2003 Mustang Cobra.

In their "under promise, over deliver" way, Steeda will advertise power at 400 peak. However, our test car fitted with the Paxton supercharger sent 425 horses to the rear wheels on a witnessed dyno run. Steeda calculates that to be 450 horses at the crankshaft!