In 1982, the California Highway Patrol tasked Ford with developing a faster, lighter, and more compact police car to succeed the long-serving Crown Victoria. Ford responded by modifying the 5.0L Fox Body Mustang to meet law enforcement needs and creating the Mustang SSP (Special Service Package).
This specialized model included upgrades like engine and transmission coolers, reinforced floor pans, silicone radiator hoses, heavy-duty alternators, a calibrated 140 MPH speedometer, non-operational courtesy lights, and optional roll cages for some jurisdictions.
The Mustang SSP proved so effective that Ford produced nearly 15,000 units between 1982 and 1993, supplying over 60 law enforcement agencies nationwide. This 1992 Ford Mustang LX notchback is an SSP example that served with the California Highway Patrol for about ten years before entering private ownership.
Finished in black and white police livery with California Highway Patrol graphics, the car features the Handling Suspension Package, cloth upholstery, dual spotlights, 15″ wheels, a light controller, a GE radio, a Uniden scanner, and emergency lights mounted to the windshield and rear parcel shelf. The car is powered by a 302ci V8 engine rated at 225 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential.
Source: Bring A Trailer
