1999-2004 Mustang V8 8.8 rear axle assembly – 3.73 gear ratio

The 1999-2004 Ford Mustang V8 models were equipped with an 8.8-inch rear axle assembly. The 8.8-inch rear axle is a popular choice for performance vehicles due to its strength and durability. It is commonly found in many Ford vehicles and has been used in various Mustang models over the years.

The 8.8-inch rear axle assembly consists of several components that work together to transfer power from the engine to the rear wheels. These components include the axle housing, differential, axleshafts, and ring and pinion gear set.

In the case of the 1999-2004 Mustang V8 models with a 3.73 gear ratio, the ring and pinion gear set has a gear ratio of 3.73:1. This means that the driveshaft will rotate 3.73 times for every one rotation of the rear wheels. A lower gear ratio like 3.73 is typically favored for quicker acceleration and improved low-end torque, making it a popular choice for performance-oriented Mustangs.

The 8.8-inch rear axle assembly with a 3.73 gear ratio provides a good balance between performance and everyday drivability. It offers strong acceleration off the line while still maintaining reasonable highway cruising RPMs.

It’s worth noting that the 8.8-inch rear axle assembly is capable of handling a decent amount of power, but if you plan to significantly increase the horsepower and torque of your Mustang, you might need to consider upgrading some of the components, such as the differential, axleshafts, and rear end gears, to ensure they can handle the increased load.

Overall, the 1999-2004 Ford Mustang V8 with the 8.8-inch rear axle assembly and a 3.73 gear ratio provides a solid foundation for a performance-oriented vehicle, offering a balance of acceleration and drivability.