With Fox-Body Mustangs being strong performers in the classic market, finding an affordable project candidate is often challenging. However, this ’86 GT Convertible rides to the rescue as a driver-grade vehicle that would benefit from a cosmetic refresh. It is in excellent mechanical health, making it the type of project where the buyer could delve into their build as time and circumstances allow. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Barney for spotting the Mustang listed here on Craigslist in Austin, Texas. The seller set their price at $6,800, and may even consider trades for the right candidate.
I have always liked the Fox-Body Mustang, and feel that the 1985 upgrade that brought a more aggressive frontal treatment was a winner. With quad headlamps and a single slot where the grille used to be, it gave the Mustang an aggressive look deserving of the badge. The first owner ordered this 1986 GT in Medium Canyon Red with a power top in Black. The seller is candid in their assessment, confirming that the clear is beginning to fail. Situations like this typically involve stripping away the clear coat to expose a healthy base for a repaint. However, if the buyer is taking a DIY approach, the process will cost more time than money. The top is showing its age, and with the power setup inoperative, it will require work. The panels are generally straight, with one ding in the passenger-side rear quarter panel being the most obvious issue for the buyer to tackle. Rust isn’t a problem, and the car rolls on its original alloy wheels.
The first owner trimmed this Mustang’s interior in Red vinyl and cloth, and the upholstered surfaces look surprisingly good for their age. The driver’s seat outer edge seems to sport some very minor wear, but the overall impression is positive. The carpet looks nice, and there are no signs of crumbling plastic. The seller acknowledges that, as a thirty-nine-year-old vehicle, there are a few squeaks and rattles, and that the air conditioning doesn’t blow cold. Further inspection will probably uncover other minor problems inside a classic featuring power windows, power locks, power lumbar adjustment, and cruise control.
Ford was beginning to make inroads by 1986, with the Mustang finally producing respectable power and torque figures that made the 1970s little more than a distant and bitter memory for performance enthusiasts. This GT’s fuel-injected 5.0-liter “HO” V8 should produce 200hp and 285 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the road via a five-speed manual transmission. Power steering was standard equipment in 1986, as was similar assistance for the brakes. The seller confirms that they recently treated this classic to a comprehensive service, including installing new plugs, wires, a cap, rotor, a fuel filter, and a new serpentine belt and tensioner. Add an aluminum Ford drivehaft, brakes, braided brake lines, and wheel bearings to the equation, and it is unsurprising that the Convertible runs and drives perfectly.
Winter is fast approaching, leaving enthusiasts with the dilemma of deciding what to do to occupy the colder months. Spending that time in their garage with this 1986 Mustang GT Convertible, whipping its panels and paint into shape, would be constructive and rewarding. That way, it would be ready to hit the road for plenty of classic motoring pleasure when the sunny weather reappears. Alternatively, they could sit in front of the fire, immersed in a good book. I know which option I would prefer, and it would involve tools and a spray gun. Do you agree?
I agree Adam, the simple front end cover change (and new taillights) perked up the four-eye Fox Mustangs. This looks like a good driver-grade car which has had some work but could be further improved. They are simple cars, tons of aftermarket support, plenty of enthusiast interest. Finding one which hasn’t been abused and just needs some normal help is getting harder. Manual transmission is preferred by many. Sounds like an honest seller. Not expensive.
If all is true in the ad, I would hand over $6800 and feel good about it. I haven’t seen one of these in good shape at a reasonable price in quite a while. I have an ’89 LX with all the same options I would call driver quality. Bought mine in 1994. The paint on mine is better, has leather seats and 57K. If I bought that one, I’d probably just drive it as it is. Though not exactly fast by today’s standards, I personally love the feel of the pushrod V8 effortlessly pulling as I row through the gears.
I have a 1980 Rover SD1 V8 standard stored for 27 years on the road last year, I would do a trade for your mustang.
Thanks Gary
Great price for a foxbody. But, it has later interior 87-93 and paint on 86’s was single stage. So if clear is peeling it was repainted. Just noting these things, not ripping on it. I have a medium canyon red 86 Saleen.
That is the 1983-86 interior, console, dash, instrument cluster and seats.
good deal
It has the wrong seats in it. They are from a 90 to 93 Mustang.
Seats are 1990 -93 small head rests
I ordered one of these new in 86. Last year before all the body flares which I hated. It was a very good car and traded in on a Turbo Supra. Miss the Mustang but as the other comments state…it is hard to find one what wasn’t abused by its owner.