1979 Ford Mustang Convertible III Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Ford Mustang Convertible III ranges between 1340 kg (2954 lbs) and 1380 kg (3042 lbs), depending on specific trims and equipment. This weight balance allows the vehicle to maintain decent agility and performance, especially considering it’s a convertible which generally weighs more due to the structural reinforcements needed after removing a fixed roof. The weight contributes to the car’s handling stability while still providing a responsive driving experience typical of muscle cars.

The luggage capacity of the Ford Mustang Convertible III stands at 180 liters (6.35 cubic feet). Given the convertible nature of the vehicle, the trunk space is modest, which is typical for cars in this segment designed primarily for performance and style rather than maximum cargo practicality. This capacity is adequate for small to medium luggage, groceries, or a couple of small suitcases, making it suitable for short trips or daily commuting rather than larger hauling needs.

Depending on the trim and market specifications, the Ford Mustang Convertible III came with tires sized either 195/75 R14 or 225/55 ZR16. The 195/75 R14 tires are narrower and likely offer a smoother ride but with less grip, while the 225/55 ZR16 tires provide wider contact patches for improved handling and sporty driving characteristics. The tire size affects both the car’s road-holding capabilities and overall comfort, impacting driver confidence and feel during cornering.

Yes, the Ford Mustang Convertible III fits comfortably inside a standard residential garage. With its length of 4560 mm (179.5 inches) and width of 1735 mm (68.3 inches), it is well within the typical garage dimensions used in many homes, which generally accommodate vehicles up to around 6 meters (about 236 inches) long. Its relatively low height of 1320 mm (51.97 inches) also ensures ample clearance in terms of vertical space, allowing easy parking inside most garages.

Compared to its predecessor, the Mustang Convertible III generally maintained a similar size profile but with some refinements. Earlier generations of the Mustang, particularly the first-generation convertibles from the mid to late 1960s, were slightly longer and heavier. The third generation (1978-1993) was designed to be more compact and efficient, reflecting tightening fuel economy regulations and evolving consumer preferences. This generation introduced a sleeker, more aerodynamic body style while retaining a similar width but reducing the weight slightly, resulting in a sportier and more agile vehicle.

In comparison to other convertibles from the late '70s and '80s, the Mustang Convertible III offered a distinctive mix of American muscle car aggressiveness and practical dimensions. While European convertibles like the BMW 3 Series or Mercedes SL models from that era tended to be smaller and more focused on luxury or handling finesse, the Mustang combined a longer, more robust body with pronounced styling and powerful engines. Its dimensions placed it in the mid-range of convertible sizes — larger than compact sport convertibles but more manageable than full-sized roadsters — making it a flexible choice for buyers seeking both style and everyday usability.

The Ford Mustang Convertible III was primarily aimed at drivers who sought the classic muscle car feel with the added enjoyment of open-top driving. Its appeal came from blending heritage Mustang styling cues with updates that made it suitable for both daily driving and weekend cruising. Throughout its production from 1978 to 1993, it captured enthusiasts interested in performance without sacrificing comfort or style, appealing to a broad audience who appreciated its distinctive sporty looks and the versatility of a convertible.

The Mustang Convertible III offered a range of engines throughout its long production span. This generation started with inline-4 and V6 options and later included various V8 powertrains, typical of muscle cars. Performance varied according to the engine choice but generally, these cars featured respectable horsepower outputs suitable for spirited driving. While exact specifications varied across markets and model years, the vehicle was designed to deliver a balanced performance emphasizing torque and acceleration in line with Mustang heritage.

Although the basic dimensions of the Mustang Convertible III remained largely consistent across its 1978 to 1993 production period, the car underwent several design and feature updates. These included subtle body styling revisions, improvements in trim and interior quality, and technological updates such as suspension tuning and interior amenities. These changes helped the car stay competitive in the evolving market while retaining its iconic look. The core dimensions—like its 4560 mm length and 1735 mm width—ensured that the Mustang remained a recognizable and beloved model with a classic muscle car silhouette.