This 1986 Ford Mustang SVO is a driver-quality example, but it remains free of major modifications and has a surprisingly nice interior. The 1986 models came with the “aero” nose featuring headlights that sat flush with the nose panel. The 1985.5 was the most powerful model offered, but the ’86’s still had a decent boost in horsepower over the first generation models with the recessed lighting. The seller notes this car is a runner, but will need a “..good going-over” by the next owner. The SVO is listed here on eBay with bidding up to $6,100 and no reserve, and located in Ramsey, New Jersey.
The SVO remains on my short list of cars I’d like to own, as it captures some of that classic 80s goodness in terms of turbocharged power, smooth-faced wheels, bi-plane rear spoiler, and nicely-bolstered Recaro style seats. While most fans of Fox bodies want one with a 5.0L V8, I love the SVO for being the same but so, so different. The bodywork on this car looks straight and true going down the sides, with no major dings or paint blemishes to report. The car comes with a clear New York State title, but the seller’s description seems to promote the fact that this one isn’t rusty – even in trouble spots like the strut towers.
Speaking of struts, the SVO didn’t stop with the turbocharged mill in terms of performance-oriented components. It also left the factory with Koni struts, which always indicated to me that Ford was dead serious about the SVO being a viable alternative to the traditional muscle car. The interior is where this example really shines, and the seller isn’t exaggerating when he says that the inside is “…as close to mint condition as you can get.” The seats appear to be in beautiful shape, with no damage to the bolsters, and the same goes for the dash which doesn’t reveal any cracks. The carpets and floor mats look quite clean as well.
Under the hood, we see no evidence of ill-conceived modifications. The SVO was just as tempting to Mustang owners to modify as the 5.0L V8-equipped GTs, as you just had to dial up the boost to make the already-potent mill even more sporting. Thankfully, this car appears to have been in the care of owners who were happy with the SVO’s out-of-the-box performance, but I’d still like to know what the seller means by encouraging a “going-over” at the hands of the next owner. Regardless, this is a no-reserve auction for a bone-stock SVO, which is a hard car to find these days – so bid accordingly if you’ve been hunting for one.
Sorry, but I never bought into the idea of these. A 5.0 Mustang was a lot cheaper, better performance, and I would imagine more reliable (Certainly less stressed). Of course, the MPG would be a little better, but that never really was a consideration in those days.
Better performance ? I own a 2.3 turbo and a 5.0 . Promise you the lighter weight up front in the 4 makes for better performance in turns. Both are mostly stock, the 5.0 only slightly better in a straight line. Granted if I’m at the dealer in 1986 buying new, I’d go 5.0. The SVO I believe was about 5k more. Today, well… it’s not 1986
I think Jeff has properly placed the SVO in context. It’s not the more popular 5.0, it’s something different. And for the person who desires a different Fox Body Mustang, it works well. This looks like a good driver-quality example which could be fun.
I think it’s interesting that turbo four cylinders are a staple of today’s Mustangs.
PITA looking up parts ! My search for 2.3 turbo used to be easier. More ecoboost out there than Lima
What’s up with the fit with the front lights
It’s only slightly off. 1986 is around the time cars were trending toward “aerodynamics” the 1984 & 85 SVOs had some recessed lights. The SVO model only lasted those 3 years & yeah it does look like they didn’t spend much time on the design. Perhaps they knew I tf was on its way out with the new aero-nosed 1987 Mustangs.
Looks more than slightly off too me, guarantee it looks worse in person….front end gender bender ar least!
No reserve and no under carriage shots. There’s an older model one on ebay and looks as good…on top, but underneath…rust is working it’s magic. One from MI and this one from NY and both use very liberal applications of salt in the winter. The seller can brag about strut towers all he wants; I want under carriage photos.
Only the first year had recessed lights.I owned one it was a great driving car with matching performance to a 5.0 except it handled way better and mine got 28.5 miles a gallon
Red car with a green dash? Very odd.
Not green dash, its gray, lighting is funky.
OK thanks, I figured it just faded.
I’m with you, Jeff. I still want one of these in my stable someday. My former boss had one about 15 years ago and he let me drive it. it definitely felt like the 80s. I must’ve been wearing wide shoes as I remember having some foot width issues in the footwell. I’d still give it another shot.