For some of our readers, the summer season and prime time to enjoy a convertible will be drawing to a close before you know it. However, when a Mustang drop-top that seems as reasonably priced as this 1986 model here on Facebook Marketplace comes along, it may be time to act now and hope for some extended sunny weather! For $2,000, this could be one of the better deals out there right now for a desirable ragtop, and the seller says it’s running well. Today might be the time to head up to Kaukuana, Wisconsin, to check this one out in person, as I’m guessing it probably won’t stick around for very long. We’d like to thank Lothar… of the Hill People for sending in this easy-on-the-wallet tip!
While it would be more exciting to find a V8 under the hood, it’s hard to complain about a V6 here for just two grand, especially when it’s running. The seller points out one mechanical issue that needs to be addressed: a faulty transmission mount, so replacing this component will be on the next owner’s to-do list. Thankfully, things in the engine compartment still appear to be in good order, and the owner reports a new battery and a new exhaust. A mileage number of 64,337 is posted, and there’s no mention that this isn’t actual.
Red is one of the most desirable colors for a Fox-era Mustang, and from what I can tell, the sheet metal here appears straight and solid, at least on the panels we can see. It’s not mentioned whether this is still the original paint or if it’s been resprayed, but the finish seems to have a decent shine, and it’s nice to find that handy luggage rack on the trunk. We don’t get to see any photos with the top up, but the seller says he’s never raised the canvas, so the roof’s condition remains a mystery to all.
For a 40-year-old, the interior looks pretty good overall, especially for a convertible. The seats are a bit faded, but probably not enough to be a deal-breaker for those seeking a low-cost droptop driver. The seller vaguely notes that this one needs some work, but at this price, there should be enough left over to make whatever repairs are needed to get this 1986 Ford Mustang back to a dependable fair-weather cruiser. Are you detecting a potential bargain here like I am?
Not a big fan of the Fox body, but at that price it is a steal.
Nice on a summer day on Cape Cod. Or even a drive thru Evansville, Wisconsin.
Or a cruise to the Dells or House on the Rock! BUT, before pulling the trigger on this convert. Check the cooling system for rust. (lack of maintenance) This 3.8 V6 will run for ever IF it never overheated. Overheating on this engine, warps cylinder heads which in turn dumps coolant into the oil. And engine bearings hate coolant. The second thing to check is to open the trunk, pull back the mat at the back end (behind the tail lights) on the floor of the trunk. And tap with a, small hammer. It might look fine, but being in the rust belt, you can never be too cautious. It might look good, but that is the area on the convert that rust shows up first. (I have never researched why) I have just seen it several times and it was always a convertible. This could be a great car/deal, but because of the age and location, a good inspection is critical for your piece of mind. JUST SAYIN’
It’s Wisconsin. Take your magnet with you.
Last Century I was looking at a 66 Mustang to buy.
It metallic tape along rocker panel. When I touched it, the whole rocker folded in. The seller was made, as he spent hours getting the tape lined up and lapped to cover the rot.
Good thing you caught it before any money changed hands. That seller was trying to pull a fast one! Karma never forgets.
If I didn’t already have a Fox body and if this were any closer, I’d give it a look. I can’t resist a bargain but the V6 is a bit of a putoff. It looks well equipped.
116 in Phoenix today,tops up on convertibles or put away.
It’s definitely been repainted. On 1986 Mustangs, the bodyside moldings, headlight buckets, and grille opening were charcoal gray.
A perfect cruiser for any woman that loves driving a topless car !
Feel there’s got to be a catch for the price. I dunno. Heck and gone from me so don’t matter. Wish things like that turned up here. Or maybe a good thing they don’t
Good write up, Mike.
It seems unlikely that the owner has NEVER seen the top up but I guess it is possible!
If I was in the market for a budget convertible, I’d be all over this. I think after owning my Dodge Shadow and Chrysler LeBaron convertibles from years back, I’m good. I’m lucky to get time in saddle of my cycle these days. Bikes are nice b/c they take up a lot less room in the garage too.
Have a great day, all you BarnFinder types.