If you are shopping for a classic Convertible that combines affordability with V8 power, this 1988 Ford Mustang LX deserves more than a passing glance. It is an extremely tidy vehicle that has managed to remain unmolested and in excellent mechanical health. Its leather interior trim adds to its appeal, and I won’t be surprised if someone snaps it up fairly quickly. I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder Barney for spotting the Mustang listed here on Craigslist in Mineola, New York. How affordable is it? The seller set their price at $7,800 for this turnkey classic.

I’ve always been a fan of the Fox-Body Mustang, and wouldn’t mind parking one in my garage if circumstances allowed. After a successful introduction for the 1979 model year and a strong performance in showrooms, dwindling sales motivated Ford to consider a replacement as early as 1984. However, a public backlash motivated the company to shelve that proposal, with the entire range receiving a facelift in 1987. This LX Convertible rolled off the line in 1988, ordered by its first owner in Oxford White with a contrasting Black power top. Its condition is consistent with a survivor-grade vehicle of this vintage. A close inspection will undoubtedly reveal minor cosmetic imperfections, but there is a distinct lack of bumps, bruises, and apparent rust. The top fits as tight as a drum, and the windows and alloy wheels are in good condition. This may not be a Concours classic, but hitting the road behind the wheel won’t cause the new owner any shame.

It is disappointing that the seller supplies no engine photos, although they do confirm that this Mustang features the fuel-injected 5.0-liter “HO” V8, a four-speed automatic transmission, a 3.55 Traction-Lok rear end, and power-assisted steering and brakes. American vehicle manufacturers were emerging from the Malaise Era with renewed enthusiasm, and this engine’s ability to produce 225hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque demonstrated that inroads had been made in the face of ever-tightening emission regulations. It appears that, apart from a MAC cat-back exhaust, this Convertible is mechanically original and in excellent health. It retains its factory smog equipment and catalytic converter, recently receiving a complete fluid change. Potential buyers should be able to fly in and build a relationship with their new purchase as they drive it home.

This Mustang remains consistent, with its interior presenting as nicely as its exterior. The first owner ticked some excellent boxes on the Order Form, equipping the interior with air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. It appears that all of these features are intact, with no evidence of aftermarket additions. The Gray leather trim is in good order, with the outer seat edges avoiding the typical wear issues. There might be some slight deterioration on the console, but the remaining plastic, the dash, and the carpet are in good condition for a survivor-grade vehicle. This interior might not be factory fresh, but it would be a comfortable place to while away the hours, regardless of the journey length.

The Fox-Body Mustang has become a rising star in the classic market, with some variants commanding impressive prices. This 1988 LX Convertible may not have quite the cachet of a GT, but its mechanical specifications mean that it gives nothing away in the performance stakes. It needs nothing, and the price looks remarkably competitive for a Mustang of this caliber. This fantastic Ford has only been on the market for a few days, but how quickly do you think it will find a new home?