The year 1996 was certainly ‘one for the books’ indeed. The first flip-phone went on sale in early January of that year, and the popular free Internet email service Hot Mail made its debut in early July. For Mustang enthusiasts, it dawned a new era for modular-powered dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) Mustangs – as 1996 was the first year that a Mustang saw a DOHC 4-Valve version of the 4.6-liter V8 power-plant.

Big things were happening at Ford at in 1996. To celebrate its achievements for implementing the latest technological advancements in its vehicles, the folks at the Blue Oval introduced the Mystic Cobra for the ’96 model year. Three years of research and development prior to its release went into this color-shifting paint; and only 1,999 Cobras were finished in this $815 paint option.

Today’s example from Craigslist sports its 20 year old Mystic paint in excellent condition from the looks of it. And if you ask us, this one is surly a steal at just under $11,500 (and with less than 40,000 miles on its odometer). It’s also one of 1,990 to wear a black leather interior, as only nine Mystic ’96 Cobras came dressed in a black clock interior.

If you’re in the Tempe, Arizona, area – you might want to check out this Mustang for yourself. It’s available from Canyon State Classics, and it’s an awesome opportunity to own one rare Cobra, and a piece of Mustang history.