The '96 GTs have 215 hp. The '97s and '98s have the same engine but the computer code was modified to make about 10 more hp, bringing the total to 225. However, the '98s do not come with a strut tower brace.
'96-'98 Cobras all have the same engine, all rating at 305 hp. There was a change to the cooling system between the '96 and '97 models. The '98s have slightly different exhaulst manifolds, and no strut tower brace, but don't make any more power.
There are variations from car to car in performance even in the same model year. Your buddy probably just got a good one.
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'97 Cobra, K&N, Flowmaster, subframes, 4.10 gears, Steeda Tri-Ax shifter, Steeda G-Trac 3, Cobra R wheels w/ Goodyear F1s
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