Defining the end of The Malaise Era has long been a topic of debate, with many knowledgeable individuals providing answers with compelling supporting evidence. Some feel that the appearance of the 1984 Buick Grand National was the catalyst, while others think it happened the moment Ford introduced the SEFI version of its sweet 5.0-liter V8 in 1986. Whichever theory you believe, the chances are you will agree times had changed for the better by the time this Mustang GT Convertible rolled off the line in 1987. It isn’t perfect, but with Fox-Body ‘Stangs growing in popularity, it might be worth examining to determine whether it is a project you would willingly tackle. The seller listed the GT here on eBay in Staunton, Illinois. Frantic bidding has pushed the price to $7,600, but it is yet to reach the reserve.
This Mustang makes a positive first impression, with the seller admitting it received a previous repaint in its original combination of Medium Shadow Blue and Silver. The paint shines well, and the Black power top is in excellent order. However, examining the car closely reveals a few issues which may deter some buyers. The top edge of the back bumper is quite warped, with the gap between it and the taillights wavering across the vehicle’s width. The fit of some plastic pieces and the panel gaps aren’t as consistent as I would usually expect, although there is no glaring evidence of accident damage. However, we must climb under this Convertible to expose what could be its greatest weakness. The floors generally look okay, although one spot is revealed in this shot where there appears to be penetrating rust. Since the underside shots aren’t comprehensive, I would encourage an in-person inspection to confirm whether this area is a problem or if the photo makes it look worse than it actually is. Otherwise, the wheels look nice, and there are no signs of glass issues.
If potential buyers seek a Mustang with a pristine interior, this car will disappoint them. It is serviceable for a driver-grade vehicle but needs TLC to lift it to a higher level. The driver’s seat upholstery is worn and damaged, meaning new seatcovers will be on the shopping list. The buyer might decide a set of aftermarket slipcovers offer the best solution. Still, with a complete reproduction set of seatcovers in the correct materials and color retailing for under $1,000, it could be worth spending the money as a long-term investment. The carpet looks tired, and some plastic pieces show deterioration, but it will take an in-person inspection to determine what requires replacement to achieve a high-end result. The gauges feature aftermarket white faces that don’t thrill me, although it’s a matter of taste whether they stay or go. Comfort features include air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, cruise control, and an AM/FM radio/CD player.
The first thing I noticed when I saw this Mustang’s engine was the aftermarket headers. Combined with the drivetrain combination and a couple of aftermarket additions, it makes me wonder whether the previous owner may have been a fan of “taking it to the max.” The 5.0-liter fuel-injected V8 would have sent 225hp to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission when this classic was shiny and new, although improved breathing courtesy of the headers may have unleashed a few additional ponies. With the GT Convertible weighing a relatively modest 3,214 lbs, it is little wonder this car can storm the ¼-mile in 15.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 138mph. The engine bay looks pretty tidy for a vehicle of this type, with the seller indicating the Mustang runs and drives. Unfortunately, they don’t specify how well it achieves either feat, adding to the worthwhile questions interested parties should probably ask.
It will be fascinating to read the feedback on this article, especially to gauge whether you feel there was a defining moment that marked the end of The Malaise Era. After some of the miserable offerings from the late 1970s and early 1980s, the ’87 Mustang GT Convertible stormed onto the market with performance and refinement which was a breath of fresh air for buyers. This one needs work, but with Fox-Body values climbing, is it a project you would consider tackling?
Good write-up Adam. It looks like a used, but not abused, Fox Body convertible. Probably fine as a driver, and one could do some upgrades as desired. Not sure about the floor pan rust.
So I clicked on the ebay ad. It’s at Country Classic Cars. This is their sweet spot: used (sometimes well used) but not abused cars of all flavors. A few higher dollar cars but not many. Hundreds of cars in inventory. A good place to look for “a car no one kept.” They have it listed for $13,850.
It looks like a subframe connector kit was installed. I have a 84 Convertible that I upgraded to a 347 ci and 5 speed. I turned a 13.38 quarter mile. The underside of mine looks way better but I’d be surprised if I could get my money back, though its not for sale. I don’t get much attention for it at cruise nights.
I was always an LX guy.Never liked the spoilers on the GT’s . Ruins the body style for me and makes it look stodgy imo. I like these fox bodys though and that little 5.0 efi engine was great especially with a 5 speed.
IMHO, Detroit started getting it back together in 1985. And that was with the Mustang GT. The last carbureted 5.0, pushing over 200hp and before all the bleep bloop boxes were hung everywhere. The “malaise” went away quick in a cloud of Eagle GT tire smoke.
That odometer has rolled over at least once looks more like 110495 miles but it has the 5 speed so transmission should be good
The introduction of the 1982 Mustang GT was what I feel started the 1980’s HP wars.
Ford ads said “The Boss is back!” Even though it had a 2 barrel carb and only 157 HP it was a quick for the time and would do smoky burnouts with ease with the 4 speed trans.
That led to the 4 barrel 175 HP ’83-’84 GT’s, the late ’83 addition of the 5 speed and then the 210 HP ’85 GT.
Anyone notice that the speedometer has been replaced should only go to 85 mph I did this on my 87 fox GT convertible!! Looks pretty good for the money!