This 1986 Ford LTD Crown Victoria Wagon has a baked exterior, which isn’t surprising given its dry location. However, that is good news because the favorable climate has left it rock-solid. Its interior is in exceptional condition, and it is a turnkey classic. The new owner could preserve it as a survivor, but a fresh coat of paint would dramatically lift its appearance. The seller believes it’s time for the Crown Vic to find a new home and has listed it here on eBay in Las Vegas, Nevada. The current bid is $2,275, which is below the reserve.
Ford released the LTD Crown Victoria in 1980, with the last cars leaving the factory in 1991. Buyers could choose from three body styles, and while the company performed minor cosmetic updates, it didn’t receive a significant mid-cycle facelift until 1988. The Wagon variant was initially popular, although sales quickly fell off a cliff, with only 20,164 finding buyers in 1986. Our featured Wagon looks pretty tired, with its Silver paint heavily baked. But that’s as bad as the news gets, because the listing images and underside shots confirm this beauty is rust-free. With no significant dings or dents, it is a prime candidate for a repaint if the winning bidder isn’t drawn to the survivor look. The trim looks acceptable for a classic of this vintage, although it is missing the wheelcovers. The first owner’s decision to specify tinted glass was wise, given the location, and it appears crystal clear.
When I first saw the exterior images, I expected this Wagon’s interior to be pretty cooked. However, it was a pleasant surprise, because the only significant issue is a cracked pad beneath the dash mat. I believe the tailgate trim isn’t original, but the rest of the exterior looks pretty sweet. Trimmed in Red cloth and vinyl, there is no significant wear or signs of abuse. The carpet is excellent, and even the faux woodgrain hasn’t deteriorated. The only aftermarket addition is an under-dash temperature gauge, which I view as worthwhile insurance against meltdown in such a hot environment. It is also nicely equipped, featuring air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a power tailgate window, a six-way power driver’s seat, cruise control, a tilt wheel, remote exterior mirrors, and an AM/FM stereo radio with a power antenna.
Powering this Crown Vic is Ford’s fuel-injected 5.0-liter V8, producing 150hp and 270 ft/lbs of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission handles shifting duties, while power steering and power brakes lighten the driver’s load. The power and torque figures are relatively modest, but it is worth noting that this classic is designed for tackling suburban traffic and effortless open-road touring, not terrifying the opposition at the local drag strip. The seller says a previous owner rebuilt the four-speed, replaced the exhaust, fitted new shocks, and did other work, ensuring this gem is ready for action. The seller recently put new tires on the Wagon, and with the Crown Vic in excellent mechanical condition, the winning bidder could fly in and drive it home.
The seller suggests transforming this 1986 LTD Crown Victoria Wagon into a tribute to the iconic Wagon Queen Family Truckster from the 1983 movie National Lampoon’s Vacation. That is one possibility, but it is also a fate I don’t believe this classic deserves. I am slightly torn because I am attracted to genuine survivors that tell their story via tired paint. However, I can envisage this Crown Vic with a refreshed exterior, because it would undoubtedly turn heads. Therefore, I don’t know which way I would jump if it were parked in my garage. What would you do? More importantly, are you tempted to make that dream a reality?
I remember a buddy with a Mercury model the Colony Park… beautiful automobile, and I swear it had a tailgate on the back like a pickup. Made it extra versatile and cool 😎
This one has the two-way tailgate.
The Coroner’s Dept. called, and want their ride back.
Depending on where the final bid goes, this could be an interesting find!
Nice looking car, but where are the hub caps ??? 😲