The 1987 Ford Ranger is a quintessential example of the first-generation compact pickup, produced from 1983 to 1992. Available in regular cab and SuperCab body styles with various bed lengths, it offered trims like S, Custom, and XLT. New prices typically ranged from $6,000 to $12,000. It stood out for its practical size, affordability, and rugged versatility, quickly becoming a popular choice for both work and personal use, appealing to those needing a reliable, manageable truck.
The Good
Its compact design offers easy maneuverability and decent fuel efficiency for a truck of its era, appealing to practical buyers. The Ranger's rugged simplicity ensures reliability and low maintenance costs, making it a dependable workhorse. Emotionally, it evokes nostalgia and a sense of freedom, serving as a versatile companion for countless adventures or daily tasks, providing strong value for its utility.
The Bad
Known weaknesses include significant rust issues, particularly on the frame, bed, and cab corners. Base engines can feel underpowered. The Automatic A4LD transmission has a reputation for being fragile. Interior amenities are basic, and the suspension components are prone to wear over time, requiring diligent inspection for potential problems.
1987 Ford Ranger: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1987 Ford Ranger offered a few engine choices, including a 2.0L carbureted Inline-4 (early model year, less common), a 2.3L "Lima" fuel-injected Inline-4, and the more powerful 2.9L "Cologne" V6. A rare 2.3L Mitsubishi diesel I4 was also available in limited markets.
- Horsepower:
- 2.0L I4: Approximately 73 hp
- 2.3L I4: Approximately 86 hp
- 2.9L V6: Approximately 140 hp
- 2.3L Diesel I4: Approximately 59-70 hp
- Fuel Economy (Estimated, varies greatly by engine/drivetrain):
- 2.3L I4 (2WD, Manual): Roughly 20-24 MPG city, 25-30 MPG highway
- 2.9L V6 (4WD): Roughly 15-18 MPG city, 20-23 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- 2.3L I4: Around 14-16 seconds
- 2.9L V6: Around 10-12 seconds
- Towing Capacity (If applicable):
- Base I4 models: Around 1,500 lbs
- 2.9L V6 with proper equipment: Up to approximately 4,000 lbs
- Trim-Level Features:
- S Trim: This was the basic work truck, featuring vinyl bench seats, rubber floor mats, manual windows and locks, and typically an AM-only radio. It was designed for utility and affordability.
- Custom Trim: Stepped up from the "S" with more exterior brightwork, cloth seats, carpeted floor, and options like air conditioning and an AM/FM stereo.
- XLT Trim: The top-tier offering for comfort, adding features like full instrumentation, upgraded cloth upholstery, chrome bumpers, power steering (often standard), and optional power windows, power door locks, and a premium audio system.
- STX Trim: Introduced in the mid-80s, the STX offered a sportier package with unique graphics, bucket seats, a specific handling suspension, and often came with the V6 engine and larger wheels.
1987 Ford Ranger Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1987 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Ranger |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Regular Cab 2WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ST. PAUL |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.9-L V-6 OHV 12V |
| Engine Size | 2.9L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| 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 | - |
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What Problems Does the 1987 Ford Ranger Have?
The 1987 Ford Ranger, like many vehicles of its era, exhibits several frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns, with rust being the most pervasive. Severe rust is common on the frame, bed mounts, wheel wells, cab corners, and rocker panels, significantly impacting structural integrity and resale value. Mechanically, the 2.9L V6 engine, while offering good power, is infamous for head gasket failures, particularly in models from 1986 to 1992, due to design flaws. Oil leaks from various engine seals are also common. The 2.3L "Lima" I4 is generally more robust but can suffer from oil leaks and ignition system wear.
Transmission issues are another concern. While the manual transmissions are typically durable, the A4LD automatic transmission (often paired with the V6) is known for its fragility, with common problems including premature wear, shift solenoid failures, and fluid leaks, often requiring costly rebuilds or replacements. Suspension components such as leaf springs, ball joints, and tie rod ends frequently wear out due to age and heavy use, leading to poor ride quality and handling. Brake systems, especially the rear drum brakes, can seize or wear unevenly.
Electrical gremlins can arise from aged wiring and connections, affecting everything from gauges and lights to power accessories on higher trims. Fuel system issues like corroded lines, faulty fuel pumps, and carburetor problems (on earlier I4s) or EFI sensor issues are also common.
Regarding recalls, the first-generation Ranger saw several. While specific 1987 recalls were fewer compared to later years, general Ford truck recalls concerning brake components (e.g., parking brake mechanisms), fuel system integrity, and potential cruise control deactivation switch fire risks (though more prominent in the 90s, the underlying components could be similar) are worth noting for potential owners. Owners should always check specific VINs for outstanding recall work. Overall, while many Rangers can be reliable, their age means proactive maintenance and addressing known issues are crucial for long-term ownership.
Transmission issues are another concern. While the manual transmissions are typically durable, the A4LD automatic transmission (often paired with the V6) is known for its fragility, with common problems including premature wear, shift solenoid failures, and fluid leaks, often requiring costly rebuilds or replacements. Suspension components such as leaf springs, ball joints, and tie rod ends frequently wear out due to age and heavy use, leading to poor ride quality and handling. Brake systems, especially the rear drum brakes, can seize or wear unevenly.
Electrical gremlins can arise from aged wiring and connections, affecting everything from gauges and lights to power accessories on higher trims. Fuel system issues like corroded lines, faulty fuel pumps, and carburetor problems (on earlier I4s) or EFI sensor issues are also common.
Regarding recalls, the first-generation Ranger saw several. While specific 1987 recalls were fewer compared to later years, general Ford truck recalls concerning brake components (e.g., parking brake mechanisms), fuel system integrity, and potential cruise control deactivation switch fire risks (though more prominent in the 90s, the underlying components could be similar) are worth noting for potential owners. Owners should always check specific VINs for outstanding recall work. Overall, while many Rangers can be reliable, their age means proactive maintenance and addressing known issues are crucial for long-term ownership.
How long will the 1987 Ford Ranger last?
With proper maintenance, a 1987 Ford Ranger can easily achieve 200,000 to 250,000 miles, and many examples remain in service for over 30 years, especially in drier climates. The vehicle's basic, body-on-frame construction contributes to its impressive long-term durability. The 2.3L I4 engine, in particular, is renowned for its longevity if oil changes are consistent.
However, weaknesses emerge over time. Rust is the primary enemy, often leading to terminal structural issues on the frame, bed, and cab. The A4LD automatic transmission is frequently the first major mechanical component to fail, necessitating costly repairs. Electrical issues can also surface as wiring ages. Suspension components will require regular replacement due to wear. Despite these, its simple design means many parts are affordable and easily accessible, making it a viable long-term vehicle for dedicated owners.
However, weaknesses emerge over time. Rust is the primary enemy, often leading to terminal structural issues on the frame, bed, and cab. The A4LD automatic transmission is frequently the first major mechanical component to fail, necessitating costly repairs. Electrical issues can also surface as wiring ages. Suspension components will require regular replacement due to wear. Despite these, its simple design means many parts are affordable and easily accessible, making it a viable long-term vehicle for dedicated owners.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1987 Ford Ranger, being a product of its era, featured minimal "built-in tech" by modern standards. Its engineering was predominantly mechanical, focusing on rugged simplicity rather than electronic sophistication. Onboard computers were rudimentary, primarily managing engine functions for fuel injection (on applicable engines) but offering no driver-facing diagnostics or advanced controls.
For entertainment, the standard offering was typically a basic AM radio. Optional upgrades included an AM/FM stereo and, in higher trims, an AM/FM cassette player. Speaker systems were generally simple, with sound quality being functional rather than premium. There were no advanced infotainment systems or connectivity features.
Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent. There was no anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, stability control, or any form of parking assistance. Cruise control was an available option on higher trim levels, offering basic speed regulation. Power steering was optional on base models and standard on more equipped versions, aiding in maneuverability.
Safety features were also fundamental. Standard equipment included lap and shoulder seat belts for front occupants. In compliance with regulations, a high-mounted third brake light was standard from 1986 onwards. The vehicle featured laminated safety glass and a collapsible steering column designed to mitigate injury in frontal impacts. Crucially, airbags were not available in the 1987 Ranger; driver-side airbags began appearing as options in passenger cars in the early 1990s but were not standard in Rangers until much later generations. The body-on-frame construction offered some inherent rigidity, but it lacked modern crumple zones and advanced cabin reinforcements. Official, publicly available crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, as we know them today, were not routinely performed or published for compact pickups of this vintage. Therefore, comprehensive crash-test data for the 1987 Ford Ranger is unavailable, and its safety performance would be considerably below modern standards given the absence of contemporary safety technologies.
For entertainment, the standard offering was typically a basic AM radio. Optional upgrades included an AM/FM stereo and, in higher trims, an AM/FM cassette player. Speaker systems were generally simple, with sound quality being functional rather than premium. There were no advanced infotainment systems or connectivity features.
Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent. There was no anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, stability control, or any form of parking assistance. Cruise control was an available option on higher trim levels, offering basic speed regulation. Power steering was optional on base models and standard on more equipped versions, aiding in maneuverability.
Safety features were also fundamental. Standard equipment included lap and shoulder seat belts for front occupants. In compliance with regulations, a high-mounted third brake light was standard from 1986 onwards. The vehicle featured laminated safety glass and a collapsible steering column designed to mitigate injury in frontal impacts. Crucially, airbags were not available in the 1987 Ranger; driver-side airbags began appearing as options in passenger cars in the early 1990s but were not standard in Rangers until much later generations. The body-on-frame construction offered some inherent rigidity, but it lacked modern crumple zones and advanced cabin reinforcements. Official, publicly available crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, as we know them today, were not routinely performed or published for compact pickups of this vintage. Therefore, comprehensive crash-test data for the 1987 Ford Ranger is unavailable, and its safety performance would be considerably below modern standards given the absence of contemporary safety technologies.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1987 Ford Ranger Prices and Market Value
When new in 1987, the Ford Ranger typically retailed from approximately $6,000 for a basic 2WD model to around $12,000-$15,000 for a fully-optioned 4WD SuperCab XLT with the V6 engine. Today, its market value is highly dependent on condition. Running examples in fair condition might fetch $2,500 to $6,000, while exceptionally well-preserved, rust-free, or low-mileage examples can command $8,000 to $15,000+, sometimes more for collector-grade trucks.
Depreciation insights for these vintage vehicles are unique; they have long since passed their primary depreciation curve. Pristine, original examples are now appreciating, driven by nostalgia and collector demand. Factors significantly affecting current resale value include the absence of rust (the most critical factor), overall mechanical condition, mileage, engine choice (V6 models often command a premium), 4WD capability, and originality. Customizations can either enhance or detract from value depending on taste. Strong demand for simple, robust utility vehicles also bolsters their market.
Depreciation insights for these vintage vehicles are unique; they have long since passed their primary depreciation curve. Pristine, original examples are now appreciating, driven by nostalgia and collector demand. Factors significantly affecting current resale value include the absence of rust (the most critical factor), overall mechanical condition, mileage, engine choice (V6 models often command a premium), 4WD capability, and originality. Customizations can either enhance or detract from value depending on taste. Strong demand for simple, robust utility vehicles also bolsters their market.
1987 Ford Ranger Cost of Ownership
Insurance for a 1987 Ford Ranger is generally very economical, especially with basic liability coverage, due to its age and modest performance. Fuel costs vary; the 2.3L I4 offers decent MPG for its class, but the 2.9L V6 is noticeably thirstier. Maintenance and repair costs are typically low. Parts are widely available and inexpensive, and the vehicle's simple design makes many repairs suitable for DIY enthusiasts, significantly reducing labor expenses.
Long-term ownership of a 1987 Ranger can be quite economical, provided the owner is proactive with maintenance and addresses rust early. While major repairs like an automatic transmission overhaul or extensive rust remediation can be costly, routine servicing is cheap. Overall, it's an economical vehicle to own for someone valuing simplicity and utility, willing to put in some basic mechanical effort.
Long-term ownership of a 1987 Ranger can be quite economical, provided the owner is proactive with maintenance and addresses rust early. While major repairs like an automatic transmission overhaul or extensive rust remediation can be costly, routine servicing is cheap. Overall, it's an economical vehicle to own for someone valuing simplicity and utility, willing to put in some basic mechanical effort.
1987 Ford Ranger Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1987 Ford Ranger Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1987 Ford Ranger Insurance
Insurance for a 1987 Ford Ranger is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1987 Ford Ranger Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
The 1987 Ford Ranger faced stiff competition from several key rivals in the compact pickup segment, notably the Chevrolet S-10/GMC S-15, Toyota Pickup (Hilux), and Nissan Hardbody (D21).
In terms of performance, the Ranger's 2.9L V6 offered competitive power for its class, often outperforming the standard four-cylinder engines in the Japanese rivals and on par with the S-10's V6 options. Its four-cylinder engines were generally adequate for light duty. Features across all these rivals were quite basic, reflecting the era. Higher trims like the Ranger XLT, S-10 Durango/Tahoe, or Toyota SR5 offered creature comforts like air conditioning, power steering, and upgraded stereos, but no significant technological advantages differentiated them.
Reliability is where distinctions emerged. While the Ranger's 2.3L I4 engine is renowned for its durability, the 2.9L V6's susceptibility to head gasket issues was a significant drawback compared to the more consistently robust engines found in Toyota and Nissan trucks. The A4LD automatic transmission in the Ranger also had a reputation for fragility, whereas Toyota and Nissan often boasted more durable drivetrains. The Chevrolet S-10 had its own set of common issues, though often less severe than the Ranger's V6 head gaskets, making their reliability profiles somewhat similar overall, with both susceptible to rust.
Regarding price, all were competitively priced when new. In the current used market, Japanese rivals like the Toyota Pickup often command a premium due to their reputation for superior mechanical reliability and often better resistance to severe rust, making them generally more expensive to acquire in good condition. The Ranger and S-10 are typically more affordable, offering great value.
Alternatives:
In terms of performance, the Ranger's 2.9L V6 offered competitive power for its class, often outperforming the standard four-cylinder engines in the Japanese rivals and on par with the S-10's V6 options. Its four-cylinder engines were generally adequate for light duty. Features across all these rivals were quite basic, reflecting the era. Higher trims like the Ranger XLT, S-10 Durango/Tahoe, or Toyota SR5 offered creature comforts like air conditioning, power steering, and upgraded stereos, but no significant technological advantages differentiated them.
Reliability is where distinctions emerged. While the Ranger's 2.3L I4 engine is renowned for its durability, the 2.9L V6's susceptibility to head gasket issues was a significant drawback compared to the more consistently robust engines found in Toyota and Nissan trucks. The A4LD automatic transmission in the Ranger also had a reputation for fragility, whereas Toyota and Nissan often boasted more durable drivetrains. The Chevrolet S-10 had its own set of common issues, though often less severe than the Ranger's V6 head gaskets, making their reliability profiles somewhat similar overall, with both susceptible to rust.
Regarding price, all were competitively priced when new. In the current used market, Japanese rivals like the Toyota Pickup often command a premium due to their reputation for superior mechanical reliability and often better resistance to severe rust, making them generally more expensive to acquire in good condition. The Ranger and S-10 are typically more affordable, offering great value.
Alternatives:
- Better (for sheer reliability and potentially less rust): A 1980s Toyota Pickup or Nissan Hardbody would be strong alternatives, often offering superior long-term mechanical durability, although finding a rust-free example at a good price can be challenging.
- Similar: The Chevrolet S-10 / GMC S-15 provides a very comparable ownership experience to the Ranger, with similar performance, feature levels, and general maintenance requirements. The choice often comes down to brand preference and specific vehicle condition.
Final Verdict: Is the 1987 Ford Ranger a Good Pickup Truck?
The 1987 Ford Ranger is an ideal vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a nostalgic, straightforward compact pickup or for practical individuals needing an economical workhorse for light hauling, commuting, or DIY projects. It appeals greatly to those who appreciate mechanical simplicity, value ease of repair, and are willing to perform basic maintenance themselves.
It is absolutely worth buying, but under very specific conditions. As it's exclusively a used vehicle, finding a well-maintained, rust-free example is paramount. Avoid trucks with significant frame rust or known major mechanical issues (like V6 head gaskets or failing automatic transmissions) unless you're prepared for a substantial restoration. For optimal power and comfort, consider an XLT or STX trim with the 2.9L V6, though the 2.3L I4 is commendably durable for lighter duty. A pre-purchase inspection is critical. For someone with mechanical aptitude, it offers robust utility and character at an often unbeatable entry price, serving as an excellent second vehicle or project truck.
It is absolutely worth buying, but under very specific conditions. As it's exclusively a used vehicle, finding a well-maintained, rust-free example is paramount. Avoid trucks with significant frame rust or known major mechanical issues (like V6 head gaskets or failing automatic transmissions) unless you're prepared for a substantial restoration. For optimal power and comfort, consider an XLT or STX trim with the 2.9L V6, though the 2.3L I4 is commendably durable for lighter duty. A pre-purchase inspection is critical. For someone with mechanical aptitude, it offers robust utility and character at an often unbeatable entry price, serving as an excellent second vehicle or project truck.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.