The 1987 Ford Mustang represents the highly successful Fox Body generation's significant refresh, produced from 1979 to 1993. Available in sleek hatchback, notchback (coupe), and convertible body styles, its key trims included the base LX and the performance-oriented GT. With new prices ranging from approximately $8,200 to $13,500, this Mustang stood out for its potent 5.0L V8 engine, lightweight design, and incredible aftermarket support, making it an enduring icon of American performance and affordability.
The Good
Emotionally, the 1987 Ford Mustang offers exhilarating 5.0L V8 performance, aggressive styling, and an iconic driving experience. Practically, it provides exceptional value, boasts robust drivetrain reliability (especially the 5.0L engine), benefits from extensive and affordable aftermarket support, and is relatively simple to maintain, making it a smart choice for a classic performance car.
The Bad
Potential buyers should watch out for age-related rust in common areas like floorboards and strut towers, as well as brittle interior plastics and electrical gremlins (e.g., power windows, dash lights). Stock brakes are often considered inadequate, and many examples suffer from previous modifications or deferred maintenance, necessitating thorough inspection.
1987 Ford Mustang: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.3L "Lima" I4 (naturally aspirated)
- 5.0L "HO" V8 - Horsepower:
- 2.3L I4: Approximately 88-90 hp
- 5.0L V8: 225 hp - Fuel Economy (estimated combined city/highway):
- 2.3L I4: Approximately 20-25 MPG
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 15-22 MPG - 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.3L I4: Approximately 10-11 seconds
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 6.0-6.5 seconds - Towing Capacity:
- Not officially rated for significant towing. Generally not recommended for towing, or only for very light loads (<1000 lbs) if specifically equipped. - Trim-Level Features:
- LX: The base model, available in hatchback, notchback, and convertible. It offered a focus on affordability and could be had with either the 2.3L I4 or the highly popular 5.0L V8, often dubbed the "5.0L LX sleeper." It featured a more subdued exterior styling compared to the GT, with simpler interior appointments and often less comprehensive instrumentation. The 5.0L LX provided excellent performance-per-dollar without the flashier body kit.
- GT: The performance flagship, available in hatchback and convertible forms, always equipped with the 5.0L V8. It boasted a distinctive aerodynamic body kit, integrated fog lights, unique turbine-style alloy wheels, a firmer suspension setup, and sport seats. The GT also came with a more complete gauge cluster and a more aggressive overall appearance, appealing to buyers seeking both performance and bold styling.
1987 Ford Mustang Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1987 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Mustang |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Cabriolet |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | OAKVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.0 L 8-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 5L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1987 Ford Mustang Have?
The 1987 Ford Mustang, while generally robust, has several frequently reported problems, largely due to its age and the nature of the era's manufacturing. Common issues include various electrical gremlins, such as failing power window motors, intermittent dashboard lights, faulty headlight switches, and inaccurate fuel gauges. The cooling system is a known weak point, with common failures including radiator leaks, water pump issues, and brittle hoses that crack over time. Stock brakes are often considered inadequate, particularly for spirited driving, leading to issues like sticking calipers and a "soft" pedal feel. The original suspension components (bushings, shocks, struts, springs) are typically worn out on high-mileage examples, affecting handling and ride quality.
Interior components suffer from age, with dashboards prone to cracking, seat bolsters wearing out, and plastic trim becoming brittle. Rust is a significant concern, especially in areas exposed to road salt; common spots include the rocker panels, floorboards, strut towers, and around the rear quarter panels. The T-5 manual transmission can show wear with aggressive use, and the AOD automatic transmission can become sluggish or require rebuilding. Fuel system problems like failing fuel pumps or clogged injectors are also not uncommon.
The 5.0L V8 engine itself is highly durable but can develop oil leaks (e.g., rear main seal) and distributor issues over time. While specific 1987 recalls were few and mostly minor (e.g., seat belt adjustments, ignition switch wiring), any potential owner should consult NHTSA records for a specific VIN. Long-term reliability is good for the core powertrain if maintained, but age-related wear on peripherals and interior components is inevitable, making proactive maintenance and component replacement crucial for continued enjoyment.
Interior components suffer from age, with dashboards prone to cracking, seat bolsters wearing out, and plastic trim becoming brittle. Rust is a significant concern, especially in areas exposed to road salt; common spots include the rocker panels, floorboards, strut towers, and around the rear quarter panels. The T-5 manual transmission can show wear with aggressive use, and the AOD automatic transmission can become sluggish or require rebuilding. Fuel system problems like failing fuel pumps or clogged injectors are also not uncommon.
The 5.0L V8 engine itself is highly durable but can develop oil leaks (e.g., rear main seal) and distributor issues over time. While specific 1987 recalls were few and mostly minor (e.g., seat belt adjustments, ignition switch wiring), any potential owner should consult NHTSA records for a specific VIN. Long-term reliability is good for the core powertrain if maintained, but age-related wear on peripherals and interior components is inevitable, making proactive maintenance and component replacement crucial for continued enjoyment.
How long will the 1987 Ford Mustang last?
Based on owner data and diligent maintenance habits, a 1987 Ford Mustang, particularly with the 5.0L V8 engine, can easily achieve and surpass 150,000 to 200,000 miles. Many dedicated enthusiasts report examples with over 250,000 miles. With proper care, these vehicles can provide 20-30+ years of service, attesting to their remarkable long-term durability. The 5.0L engine is incredibly robust; its longevity is a testament to its simple, strong design. The T-5 manual transmission is also quite durable when not subjected to excessive abuse. However, long-term weaknesses emerge in the ancillary systems. Electrical components, aging rubber and plastic parts (bushings, interior trim), and the original cooling and braking systems often require replacement or upgrading over time. Rust, especially in ungaraged or salt-exposed vehicles, can become a significant structural weakness. Consistent fluid changes, rust prevention, and addressing wear-and-tear items proactively are key to maximizing its service life.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1987 Ford Mustang offered technology and features typical for its era, which are rudimentary by modern standards. For built-in tech and entertainment, standard equipment included an AM/FM stereo, often paired with a cassette player. Optional upgrades might have included a premium sound system with a graphic equalizer. There was no integrated navigation, Bluetooth, or USB connectivity; all audio inputs were analog. Controls were primarily mechanical, operating simple analog gauges. Air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, power mirrors, and cruise control were available as optional convenience features.
Driver-assistance features, as understood today, were non-existent. Concepts like anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, or any form of automated driving aids were far from standard in mainstream vehicles of this period, and the Mustang did not offer them. Power steering and power brakes were common features, but these were basic amenities, not advanced assistance systems.
In terms of safety features, the 1987 Mustang met federal minimum safety standards for its time. Standard safety equipment included three-point seat belts for front outboard passengers and lap belts for others. It featured an energy-absorbing steering column and unibody construction with front and rear crumple zones. A federally mandated high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) was also present. However, advanced features like airbags (driver's side airbags became optional in some Mustangs much later in the Fox Body run, but not for '87) or advanced side-impact protection were absent. Formal crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, as published today with star ratings, did not exist for individual models in 1987. While the Mustang was designed to pass contemporary safety requirements, its performance in modern crash tests would likely be poor due to the lack of airbags, advanced structural reinforcements, and sophisticated occupant restraint systems.
Driver-assistance features, as understood today, were non-existent. Concepts like anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, or any form of automated driving aids were far from standard in mainstream vehicles of this period, and the Mustang did not offer them. Power steering and power brakes were common features, but these were basic amenities, not advanced assistance systems.
In terms of safety features, the 1987 Mustang met federal minimum safety standards for its time. Standard safety equipment included three-point seat belts for front outboard passengers and lap belts for others. It featured an energy-absorbing steering column and unibody construction with front and rear crumple zones. A federally mandated high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) was also present. However, advanced features like airbags (driver's side airbags became optional in some Mustangs much later in the Fox Body run, but not for '87) or advanced side-impact protection were absent. Formal crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, as published today with star ratings, did not exist for individual models in 1987. While the Mustang was designed to pass contemporary safety requirements, its performance in modern crash tests would likely be poor due to the lack of airbags, advanced structural reinforcements, and sophisticated occupant restraint systems.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1987 Ford Mustang Prices and Market Value
When new in 1987, an LX Hatchback (2.3L) typically started around $8,200-$9,000, while a 5.0L LX could be approximately $10,000-$11,000. The GT Hatchback, the performance flagship, was priced from roughly $12,500-$13,500, with convertibles and options adding to these figures.
Today, current used market prices are highly variable. 2.3L LX models typically range from $2,000-$6,000. 5.0L LX models ("sleepers") can fetch $5,000-$15,000+, while GT models command $8,000-$25,000+, especially for pristine, low-mileage, or well-modified examples. Convertibles often carry a slight premium.
Depreciation insights show that the 1987 Mustang, particularly 5.0L models, experienced significant depreciation through the 1990s and early 2000s. However, it has since transitioned into a classic, with depreciation reversing. Factors positively affecting current resale value include the presence of the 5.0L V8, original and unmolested condition, lower mileage, absence of significant rust, and documented maintenance history. Hatchback and notchback body styles, especially the latter for its lighter weight and stiffness, are particularly sought after, as are well-executed, tasteful modifications. Poor maintenance or extensive, questionable modifications can significantly detract from value.
Today, current used market prices are highly variable. 2.3L LX models typically range from $2,000-$6,000. 5.0L LX models ("sleepers") can fetch $5,000-$15,000+, while GT models command $8,000-$25,000+, especially for pristine, low-mileage, or well-modified examples. Convertibles often carry a slight premium.
Depreciation insights show that the 1987 Mustang, particularly 5.0L models, experienced significant depreciation through the 1990s and early 2000s. However, it has since transitioned into a classic, with depreciation reversing. Factors positively affecting current resale value include the presence of the 5.0L V8, original and unmolested condition, lower mileage, absence of significant rust, and documented maintenance history. Hatchback and notchback body styles, especially the latter for its lighter weight and stiffness, are particularly sought after, as are well-executed, tasteful modifications. Poor maintenance or extensive, questionable modifications can significantly detract from value.
1987 Ford Mustang Cost of Ownership
Insurance for a 1987 Ford Mustang can vary; classic car insurance is an option for well-preserved models, offering lower rates. Otherwise, standard policies might be higher due to its performance nature. Fuel costs for 5.0L V8s are not modern-efficient (15-22 MPG) and often benefit from premium fuel. The 2.3L is more economical. Maintenance and repair costs are generally economical; parts are widely available and relatively inexpensive thanks to immense aftermarket support. Many repairs are DIY-friendly. Long-term ownership can be quite affordable if a solid example is purchased and maintained. It becomes costly only with extensive performance upgrades or neglected major repairs. Overall, for a performance classic, it's surprisingly economical to own, offering great value for money.
1987 Ford Mustang Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1987 Ford Mustang Recalls & Defects
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Recall date
1987-09-04
Recall no.
87v139000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Spring Lock Fuel Line Coupling MAY NOT BE Properly Engaged.
Consequence
Coupling Could Disengage DUE TO Fuel Pressure,vibration, and Engine Movements; This Would Cause Loss OF Fuel Which, Inpresence OF AN Ignition Source, Creates A Fire Risk.
Remedy
Install Retainer Clips Over THE Couplings TO Prevent Coupling Separation and Fuel Leakage.
Notes
System: Fuel Line Couplingvehicle Description: Passenger Cars and Light Trucks Equipped With Fuelinjection.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2006-05-24
Recall no.
06e049000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain CK Motorsports Combination Headlights, Clear Corner, Bumper, and Side Marker Lights Sold AS Replacement Lamps FOR USE ON THE Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. Some Combination Lamps That ARE NOT Equipped With Amber Side Reflectors Fail TO Conform TO Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment.
Consequence
Without THE Amber Reflectors, THE Vehicle Will BE Poorly Illuminated, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash Without Warning.
Remedy
CK Motorsport Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Noncompliant Lamps Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON July 1, 2006. Owners MAY Contact CK Motorsport AT 1-909-610-7211.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY THE Vehicle Manufacturers.for More Information ON THE Lamp Model Numbers, Click ON Document Search and View Document Titled "lamp Model Numbers."customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2008-08-11
Recall no.
08e050000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
K2 Motor IS Recalling 1,921 Aftermarket Headlamps OF Various Models Sold FOR USE ON THE Above Listed Vehicles. These Headlamps ARE Missing THE Amber Side Reflex Reflector Which Fails TO Conform With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
Without THE Amber Side Reflex Reflectors, THE Lighting Visibility MAY BE Affected, Possibly Resulting IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
K2 Motor Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund. THE Recall Began ON Decemeber 17, 2008. Owners MAY Contact K2 Motor AT 1-909-839-2992.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY Honda, Ford, or Chrysler Llc. Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Exterior Lighting
Recall date
2009-04-07
Recall no.
09e012000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Sabersport IS Recalling 16,270 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Sabersport Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON MAY 11, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Sabersport AT 1-909-598-7589.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Sabersport.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Exterior Lighting:headlights
Recall date
2009-05-11
Recall no.
09e025000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Dope, Inc. IS Recalling 42,540 Combination Corner and Bumper Lamp Assemblies OF Various Part Numbers Sold FOR USE AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles. These Headlamps Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 108, "lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment." These Lamps DO NOT Contain THE Required Amber Side Reflectors.
Consequence
Decreased Lighting Visibility MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Dope, Inc. Will Notify Owners and Offer A Full Refund FOR THE Noncompliant Combination Lamps. THE Safety Recall Began ON July 28, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dope, Inc. AT 1-626-272-1798.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Replacement Equipment and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Produced BY THE Vehicle Manufacturer.in Order TO Determine IF Your Aftermarket Lamp Assembly IS Affected BY This Noncompliance, Please Review THE List OF Model Numbers Provided TO US BY Dope, Inc.the List CAN BE Found Under "document Search" Located AT THE Bottom OF Your Screen. Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
1987 Ford Mustang Insurance
Insurance for a 1987 Ford Mustang is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Cabriolet with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1987 Ford Mustang Compare to Other Cabriolet?
The 1987 Ford Mustang faced direct competition primarily from the Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z/Z28 and Pontiac Firebird Trans Am/GTA. When comparing performance, the Mustang 5.0L (225 hp) was a formidable rival to the F-bodies' 5.7L TPI V8s (also around 225 hp). The Mustang was typically lighter, providing a slight edge in straight-line acceleration and a more nimble feel, though F-bodies often boasted better stock handling. The Mustang's available 5-speed manual was a distinct advantage for enthusiasts over the F-bodies' automatic-only 5.7L options.
In terms of features, all these domestic rivals offered similar basic amenities: power accessories, optional premium audio, and rudimentary climate control. None featured advanced driver-assistance technology. The F-bodies occasionally showcased slightly more elaborate interior options, but the Mustang's interior was more straightforward and functional. Regarding reliability, the Mustang's 5.0L V8 engine is renowned for its simplicity and robustness, arguably surpassing the more complex TPI engines in the F-bodies, which could be prone to sensor issues. All suffered from similar age-related electrical problems and interior wear. The Mustang benefits from a vast and affordable aftermarket, simplifying long-term parts sourcing and maintenance.
Price was a strong suit for the Mustang; it was generally the most affordable performance option, especially the LX 5.0L, offering unmatched bang-for-buck. F-bodies, particularly high-trim models, could be slightly pricier.
Similar/Better Alternatives:
In terms of features, all these domestic rivals offered similar basic amenities: power accessories, optional premium audio, and rudimentary climate control. None featured advanced driver-assistance technology. The F-bodies occasionally showcased slightly more elaborate interior options, but the Mustang's interior was more straightforward and functional. Regarding reliability, the Mustang's 5.0L V8 engine is renowned for its simplicity and robustness, arguably surpassing the more complex TPI engines in the F-bodies, which could be prone to sensor issues. All suffered from similar age-related electrical problems and interior wear. The Mustang benefits from a vast and affordable aftermarket, simplifying long-term parts sourcing and maintenance.
Price was a strong suit for the Mustang; it was generally the most affordable performance option, especially the LX 5.0L, offering unmatched bang-for-buck. F-bodies, particularly high-trim models, could be slightly pricier.
Similar/Better Alternatives:
- Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z / Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA (1987-1992): Direct competitors offering similar V8 performance. The choice often came down to styling preference and handling feel. They are similar alternatives if one prefers GM's aesthetic or chassis.
- Buick Grand National (1987): A distinct alternative for pure acceleration. Its turbocharged V6 (245 hp) made it incredibly fast in a straight line, but it was much rarer, significantly more expensive, and less focused on nimble handling. A "better" alternative for drag racing if budget is not a concern.
- Toyota Supra MkIII (1986.5-1992) or Nissan 300ZX (Z31 1984-1989): These Japanese rivals offered more refinement, potentially superior build quality, and some technological advances (e.g., electronic suspension) but were considerably more expensive, often less powerful in base configurations, and could incur higher maintenance costs due to their complexity and rarer parts. They appealed to a different segment and were not direct competitors in the same affordability bracket.
Final Verdict: Is the 1987 Ford Mustang a Good Cabriolet?
The 1987 Ford Mustang is an ideal vehicle for enthusiasts seeking an affordable, highly customizable, and engaging classic American muscle car experience. It particularly suits those who appreciate a raw, mechanical driving feel, a massive aftermarket support network, and a vibrant community. It's also an excellent entry point for a first-time classic car owner or anyone looking for a rewarding project vehicle.
It is absolutely worth buying in the current used market, provided you approach it wisely. The value it offers as a fun-to-drive, iconic car with widespread parts availability and repair knowledge makes it a sound purchase. Conditions for buying include prioritizing well-maintained examples, especially those with the robust 5.0L V8 engine. Both the LX (for its sleeper appeal) and GT (for its aggressive styling) trims are highly desirable. It's crucial to avoid heavily abused, rust-ridden, or poorly modified examples unless a full, comprehensive restoration is planned. Always get a pre-purchase inspection to uncover hidden issues. Be prepared for potential ongoing maintenance or upgrades, as even the best examples will benefit from refreshed suspension, brakes, and electrical attention due to age. This Mustang delivers immense enjoyment without necessarily breaking the bank for parts or repairs.
It is absolutely worth buying in the current used market, provided you approach it wisely. The value it offers as a fun-to-drive, iconic car with widespread parts availability and repair knowledge makes it a sound purchase. Conditions for buying include prioritizing well-maintained examples, especially those with the robust 5.0L V8 engine. Both the LX (for its sleeper appeal) and GT (for its aggressive styling) trims are highly desirable. It's crucial to avoid heavily abused, rust-ridden, or poorly modified examples unless a full, comprehensive restoration is planned. Always get a pre-purchase inspection to uncover hidden issues. Be prepared for potential ongoing maintenance or upgrades, as even the best examples will benefit from refreshed suspension, brakes, and electrical attention due to age. This Mustang delivers immense enjoyment without necessarily breaking the bank for parts or repairs.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.