DEARBORN -- Ford Motor Co. has halted production of its high-performance 2003 SVT Mustang Cobra due to quality concerns, according to a company official.

Ford stopped building the limited-edition version of the Mustang about two weeks ago, said Alan Hall, a spokesman for Ford's Special Vehicle Team operations.

Hall would not specify the problems that led to the stoppage, but said that they have been fixed and that production at the Dearborn Assembly Plant will resume Nov. 12.

"It was something that was caught at the plant and it's something that hopefully has been resolved," Hall said. "It was part of our regular process to ensure quality."

In 1999, Ford recalled 5,300 1999 SVT Mustang Cobras after admitting the vehicle's engine did not produce its advertised 320 horsepower.

The recall came after Mustang Cobra owners complained of a shortfall of as much as 50 horsepower. Ford traced the power problem to the engine's cast aluminum intake manifold and its exhaust system.

The issues with the 2003 Mustang Cobra, which produces 390 horsepower, are not related to horsepower, Hall said.

The automaker still plans to build 12,000 Mustang Cobra coupes and convertibles this year. The $35,000 car is popular among weekend racers.

Ford has been expanding is stable of high-performance cars and trucks, which can pad profits and stimulate consumer interest in the entire brand.