Ford introduced the facelifted fourth generation of the Mustang Cabriolet in December 1998, just in time for those who had to get all the money to buy it for the next open-top season.
The facelifted version showed such a radical change that some considered it as a new generation. But Ford stated that it was just a facelift, a major one.
The Mustang SN-99 (fourth-generation facelift) abandoned the bio-design lines and embraced the new-edge-design styling for starters. Its sharp-looking headlights with precise cuts and angular-looking grille were a big departure from its predecessor's rounded lines. A pair of fake air intakes in front of the rear wheel-arches mimicked a pair of cooling ducts for the rear brakes on the sides. In the rear, the taillights sported a similar shape as the original 1964 Mustang, with vertical lamps. Like on its predecessor, the canvas roof was completely retractable behind the rear seats.
Inside, the rounded lines were still there, with a wave-like dashboard that resembled the original design of the 1964 ? Mustang panel but with a deep center stack extended to the center console. The front bucket seats were built for comfort, but the carmaker offered a pair with higher bolstering as an option. In the back, there was slightly room for two adults, but enough for short trips.
Ford installed the 3.8-liter V6 engine for the base model mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox under the hood. Its power was increased by 45 hp when compared to its predecessor and reached 190 hp. For the 4.6-liter V8, Ford raised the power from 215 hp to 260 hp. A four-speed automatic transmission was on the options list.