Highway Patrol

The 1983 FHP Mustang refers to a special version of the Ford Mustang used by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).  Above are all forty of them lined-up and ready to roll.

These Mustangs were part of the Special Service Package (SSP) factory-equipped with a carbureted 5.0L High Output V8 (302 cu in) rated at 175 hp and 245 lb-ft of torque. Special Features of the SSP included an engine oil cooler, automatic transmission fluid cooler, reinforced floor pans, heavy-duty alternator, certified speedometer, relocated deck lid release, reinforced frame and suspension for high-speed handling and special “FHP” two-tone paint scheme (dark brown and tan/gold).  

Transmission was either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic and top speed for this pursuit vehicle was 130+ mph.

Ford began SSP Mustang production in 1982, and FHP was among the first law enforcement agencies to adopt them in 1983.  These cars were lightweight, fast, and more fuel-efficient than traditional police cruisers, making them ideal for highway patrol duties.  The FHP Mustangs were among the most iconic SSP Mustangs ever used due to their unique look and early adoption.

Between marriages I drove a 1988 5.0L LX hatchback civilian model, fuel-injected with a roller cam, tuned headers and with a T-5 Borg-Warner manual transmission.  Factory-equipped with a 5.0L (302 cu in) High Output V8 it had a compression ratio: 9.0:1 and a sequential multi-port fuel injection (SEFI). Rated at 225 hp @ 4,200 rpm and 300 lb-ft  of torque.  I can personally certify that top speed is 135 mph.  Curb weight was 3150 pounds.

My daily drive nowadays is a Mustang Mach-E Premium AWD with an extended range battery

Powered by two permanent magnet, synchronous electric motors, with a single speed automatic transmission it is rated at 346 hp and 428 lb-ft of torque.  0-60 in less than 3.8 seconds top speed is factory limited to 120 mph.   Curb weight is 4,759 pounds.

Automotive engineering has moved light years since 1983.  

And there is no such thing as a green sports car.

Vrooom!