Some projects just have a vibe. While many cars simply fall into the category of being dilapidated and neglected, there are some that are undoubtedly in that condition but still seem eminently appealing. This 1990 Ford Mustang GT is a donation vehicle but one that looks like it was an active project not too long ago. It has some mechanical issues as well as some upgrades that suggests there may be more performance modifications lurking. The paint is toast but it actually works with the overall vibe of the ‘Stang, which I’d leave in its rat-rod state. Find the Mustang GT here on eBay with bids to $3,272.94 and no reserve.

I’m a big fan of the Fox body Mustang, but it’s usually the notchback I’m fawning over. However, if you want a peak 90s car, it doesn’t get any peakier than a Mustang hatchback with the GT body kit and Saleen-style wheels. The paint might even come back to life with a buffing, if it’s single stage. The tinted taillights are another example of a period-correct modification that suggests someone stopped working on this Mustang in 1998 and hasn’t lifted a wrench since. Even the color is perhaps one of the top 3 most common combos you see on GT cars with the two-tone body kit.

And here’s the kicker: it’s a 5-speed manual. Anyone looking for a Fox body project knows it’s a 50/50 shot at finding three pedals inside, so it’s somewhat ironic that a battered donation car has the preferred transmission. The GT-specific sport seats appear to be in good shape overall, and the back seat looks like it was never used. Now, here’s an interesting detail: this GT has a 160 miles per hour speedometer, along with a Ford Motorsport logo at the bottom of the dial. The internet claims this speedometer came out of the SSP Mustangs, and they trade for $500 or so on eBay.

It sure seems like someone was actively upgrading this Mustang before a life event happened that led to it becoming a donation car. However, it’s not a totally turnkey project: the seller notes that the Mustang overheats and leaks coolant. The motor mounts are also supposedly shot and the seller vaguely references it needing suspension work. However, replacement engines are cheap and aftermarket suspension will almost certainly improve the driving experience of any domestic muscle car. The overheating issue does demand some investigative work, but given the current bid price for an ugly donation car, it’s clearly not stopping bidders from trying to win.