04-01-2010, 02:17 AM
10: 1979 Indy Pace Car edition.
It is one of the bookend models of the Fox era, with an unmistakable paint scheme. Interestingly, although 10,478 production examples represent a great number for a limited edition model, relatively few have survived in show/collector condition. Even examples in good condition are likely in need of attention that is costly or, in in the case of the unique Recaro seats' upholstery, all but impossible to source. The strange TRX metric tires are available, but not in the original size. The yellow/orange graphics are available as reproductions, but the cars pewter metallic paint can be difficult to match and typically requires a complete repaint. Indy Pace Cars came with either a V8 or turbocharged 2.3L four cylinder. The 2.3L turbo was the "performer" of the available powerplants but was notoriously unreliable. The V8 (5.0L with a manual or 4.2L with automatic) was weak, but reliable. When it comes to buying an Indy Pace Car, pay the extra money for the cleanest, lowest mileage example you can find. The V8 is likely to be in better running condition and there's likely to be less wear on the Recaro seats.
SPECIAL FIND. Examples that were used as festival cars for the Indy 500. They are identified (if still wearing the original paint) by additional Indy Speedway decals at the forward edges of the front fenders.
9: 1980-1981 Mustang Cobra
Using the front fascia and hood scoop of the 79 Pace Car replicas, but with a unique paint scheme, the 1980-81 Cobra models, with their huge hood snake graphic, evoked the audacity of the 78 King Cobra. And like the King Cobra, the 80-81 cars had little under the hood to back up what the coiled snake on the hood initiated. Powertrains were similar to the 79 Pace Car, including the V8 and turbo four. Also like the Pace Cars, these Cobras are more show than go.
SPECIAL FIND. Black with green graphics and white with green graphics seem to be the most common finds. Red examples are great, but the Bright Caramel example, as seen in the 1980 sales brochure is especially rare.
8: 1982 GT
Ford proclaimed "The Boss is Back" in 1982 and, considering the rest of the tepid performers on the market, the 157HP Mustang GT was as zippy as anything on the market in those days. The 5.0L engine breathed through a Holley two barrel carburetor, had a modest 8.4:1 compression ratio and was backed by a four speed transmission. The rear end was a 7.5 inch unit packed with 3.08 gears and a Traction-Lox differential. It doesn't sound like the stuff od street racing legends today, but the car didn't weigh much and, again, the competition was even more asthmatic. The 82 GT wore an aggressive air dam and a non functional hood scoop reminiscent of vintage muscle cars. In our opinion, it ranks with the 85-86 GT and the 93 Cobra as one of the best looking Fox Mustangs. With nearly 25,000 GT's sold in 82, you'd think there would be plenty left. You'd be wrong. There are few surviving examples, with many of them turned into cheap hot rods. Original condition examples are increasing in value every year, making the 82 GT one of the most desirable Fox cars.
SPECIAL FIND. A few automatic transmission models were built, but the actual production numbers are sketchy. They have the 4.2L (255) V8 under the hood despite wearing 5.0 badges on the fenders.
7: 1984 20th anniversary Special Edition
With all the different body styles generated between April 1964 and the 1984 model year, it was hard to believe only 20 years had passed since the Mustang's introduction. Indeed, the model year marked sixth model year of the Fox Mustang, which would end after a run of 15 model years. The Shelby-inspired look of the 20th anniversary "GT-350" models was striking and enthusiasts immediately recognized it's collectible potential. There were 5,260 examples built, and fortunately many have survived in low mileage original condition. They were offered in hatchback and convertible body styles and equipped with either the 5.0L 4 barrel, 5.0L CFI or turbocharged 4 cylinder.
SPECIAL FIND. Convertibles with the turbo four engine. Only 104 were built, making them the rarest of the 20th anniversary models.
6: 1985-1986 GT
To many Fox body enthusiasts, the 85-86 Mustang GT models are the most desirable of the lot. They represent the zenith of the four eyed models' styling and performance. They had restrained good looks, with a more rounded nose and a 1980's appropriate blackout hood graphic with the GT logo. Performance-wise, it's a toss-up. The 85 GT with a manual transmission had a 215HP four barrel fed engine (automatics were saddled with the lower power CFI system) while the 86 models, regardless of transmission, made 200HP with the 5.0's first port fuel injection system. When seeking one to add to your collection, seek the lowest mileage, most original specimen you can find. They're the ones that will be the most valuable in the future.
SPECIAL FIND. To protect Ford's copyright on the Cobra name, the company used it on the Canadian GT starting in 1985. The Cobra name is emblazoned on the hatch of Canadian models, giving them added distinction over U.S. models.
5: 1986-1993 Saleen
Although contemporary Saleen Mustangs are relatively common today, the Fox body examples were race-ready machines that appealed to those more interested in road courses than drag strips. And yes, Steve Saleen started selling his cars to the public in 1984, but it was really the 1986 model year that established the brand as a recognizable and respected manufacturer. Production numbers fluctuated widely during the Fox body years, as did equipment. Vehicles with modified engines appeared in 1989 with the "SSC" designation and, after that "SC" labels. Although nowhere near Shelbys in terms of value, the early Saleen Mustangs have garnered a following that mirrors the interest in Shelby cars in the 70's. Muddying the waters, however, is the fact that Steve Saleen was effectively forced out of the company that still bears his name and he now has nothing to do with it. And if you have your heart set on an 86 model, make sure it has it's original clear headlamp covers.
SPECIAL FIND. Saleen converted a handful of SSP police-model notchbacks that were part of a cancelled order from the state of Oregon.
4:1987-1993 LX 5.0 notch
They are the quintessential 5.0 Mustang; the cars that launched a movement and defined a generation much like the 55 Chevy and 69 Camaro did for previous generations. Yes, the "Notchback" LX models from 87-93 are the 5.0L cars most enthusiasts identify with, and as time goes on they'll be one most collectors will seek out in unmodified form. Why? Because there aren't too many left that haven't been upgraded in one form or another- be it simple bolt-ons or a full fledged race car. In fact, many four cylinder notches have been converted to 5.0L running gear too. Common wear problems on all Fox Mustangs, such as wayward ash tray doors, notoriously thin paint jobs and seats that simply just lose their shape all affect stock models as well as modifieds, making it all the more difficult to locate a pristine example. If you do an untouched notch, resist the urge to modify.
SPECIAL FIND. Sand Beige exterior color. It was pretty common on four cylinders, but scarce on 87 and 88 5.0L's. Only 47 were painted Sand Beige in 1987 and just 23 in 88.
3: 1992 LX 5.0 Summer Feature convertible
A couple of years after the 1990 special edition known as the "7-UP" car, Ford released another seasonally timed special that became known as the summer special edition. All were 5.0L LX convertibles and were distinguished by Vibrant Red paint, including the A-pillars (non-s.e. cars had black pillars), pearl white wheels, a rear spoiler and a white leather interior. Unlike other specials that came after the summer edition firm production numbers vary, but 2,193 is cited by many experts. About one third of those were equipped with a manual transmission. Identification is pretty easy, as no other regular production models had body color A-pillars, door mirrors and window trim. The rear spoiler replaced the standard luggage rack. There's also a radiator support ID tag with the word "FEATURE" stamped on it. The leather is prine to cracking and discoloration, so inspect an interior carefully when shopping.
SPECIAL FIND. Spend the extra time and money to find a five speed model. It will be worth it in the long run.
2: 1993 Cobra
The swan-song for the Fox body Mustang was also it's greatest hit. The 93 Cobra was a refined performer, with a host od unique mechanical and appearance parts. The engine used a unique intake system to help make 235 horsepower- up 20 from the LX-GT's 215HP rating. The suspension was re-tuned as well, for a more compliant ride. Exterior-wise, unique body cladding was added and it looked like the GT's at a glance, but was smoother and without fake scoops. At the rear was a specific rear spoiler and taillights based on the former Mustang SVO. The most identifiable cue, however, was the 17 inch "fan blade" wheels. The Cobra was offered only in red, black and teal; and only 4,993 were built (including a few race-ready "R" models).
SPECIAL FIND. Ford built 107 Cobra R models. They are immediately identifiable by black 5-lug wheels that were pulled ahead from the sn-95 cars (albeit with a different offset) and brake cooling ducts in place of fog lamps. Inside, the rear seat, radio, air conditioning, rear carpet and sound deadening material were all deleted in favor of a lower curb weight. Their rarity and purpose built nature makes the 93 Cobra R just about the most valuable Fox out there.
1: 1982-1993 SSP
Regardless of the car model, there is something undeniably cool about owning and driving a former police car. Much of it due to Elwood Blues' "cop tires, cop shocks" monologue from "The Blues Brothers." Ford built specially equipped Mustang notchbacks for police and other official agencies from 1983 through 1993; they were known by their factory "SSP" designation and despite seeming fairly common, especially in states like California and Florida, the actual production numbers point to only a few hundred built each year. Not surprisingly, few have survived; with many of them in poor condition or long ago sold to enthusiasts who turned them into race cars. Unmarked units are especially desirable. Go to www.sspmustang.org for the information necessary to arm yourself in your search for a collectible SSP.
SPECIAL FIND: Early California Highway Patrol modls or any 1985 SSP. With only 316 produced, 1985 represents the lowest production model year.
Honorable Mention
1979 Cobra
Less distinctive than the 1980-81 models, and overshadowed by the 79 Pace Car.
1983-86 GLX and LX 5.0
Before the popular 5.0L LX of 87-93, customers could still get the high output V8 in non-GT clothing. These were the GLX models of 83-84, and the LX of 85-86.
1983 GT convertible.
Only 1,001 were built, accounting for approximately 3 percent of the total Mustang GT run that year. Right now, only the die hard Foc guys know how rare they are. When the rest of the world finds out, the few remaining examples will appreciate.
1983-84 GT Turbo.
Almost too rare. Most enthusiasts are unaware they were even offered. Better find one now.
1984-86 SVO.
Unquestionably collectible, but these cult cars just haven't garnered the enthusiasm of the V-8 cars...yet. Their day is coming. These cars were fully loaded with luxury options.
1987-90 ASC McLaren.
A roadster conversion that emphasized luxury and exclusivity more than performance, but only 1,806 were built during their 4 year production run.
1990 7-UP convertible.
The first of the seasonal special editions, but a relatively high production run of more than 4,000 makes them more plentiful than the red, white and yellow editions of 92-93.
1993 Feature cars.
Coming on the heels of the successful 1992 "summer" edition, two feature cars were released for 1993. One wearing white paint, white wheels, a white top and white interior, it was known as the "triple white" feature car. The other wearing Canary Yellow paint, a black top and chrome wheels. Each is rarer than the summer edition, making them harder to find.
It is one of the bookend models of the Fox era, with an unmistakable paint scheme. Interestingly, although 10,478 production examples represent a great number for a limited edition model, relatively few have survived in show/collector condition. Even examples in good condition are likely in need of attention that is costly or, in in the case of the unique Recaro seats' upholstery, all but impossible to source. The strange TRX metric tires are available, but not in the original size. The yellow/orange graphics are available as reproductions, but the cars pewter metallic paint can be difficult to match and typically requires a complete repaint. Indy Pace Cars came with either a V8 or turbocharged 2.3L four cylinder. The 2.3L turbo was the "performer" of the available powerplants but was notoriously unreliable. The V8 (5.0L with a manual or 4.2L with automatic) was weak, but reliable. When it comes to buying an Indy Pace Car, pay the extra money for the cleanest, lowest mileage example you can find. The V8 is likely to be in better running condition and there's likely to be less wear on the Recaro seats.
SPECIAL FIND. Examples that were used as festival cars for the Indy 500. They are identified (if still wearing the original paint) by additional Indy Speedway decals at the forward edges of the front fenders.
9: 1980-1981 Mustang Cobra
Using the front fascia and hood scoop of the 79 Pace Car replicas, but with a unique paint scheme, the 1980-81 Cobra models, with their huge hood snake graphic, evoked the audacity of the 78 King Cobra. And like the King Cobra, the 80-81 cars had little under the hood to back up what the coiled snake on the hood initiated. Powertrains were similar to the 79 Pace Car, including the V8 and turbo four. Also like the Pace Cars, these Cobras are more show than go.
SPECIAL FIND. Black with green graphics and white with green graphics seem to be the most common finds. Red examples are great, but the Bright Caramel example, as seen in the 1980 sales brochure is especially rare.
8: 1982 GT
Ford proclaimed "The Boss is Back" in 1982 and, considering the rest of the tepid performers on the market, the 157HP Mustang GT was as zippy as anything on the market in those days. The 5.0L engine breathed through a Holley two barrel carburetor, had a modest 8.4:1 compression ratio and was backed by a four speed transmission. The rear end was a 7.5 inch unit packed with 3.08 gears and a Traction-Lox differential. It doesn't sound like the stuff od street racing legends today, but the car didn't weigh much and, again, the competition was even more asthmatic. The 82 GT wore an aggressive air dam and a non functional hood scoop reminiscent of vintage muscle cars. In our opinion, it ranks with the 85-86 GT and the 93 Cobra as one of the best looking Fox Mustangs. With nearly 25,000 GT's sold in 82, you'd think there would be plenty left. You'd be wrong. There are few surviving examples, with many of them turned into cheap hot rods. Original condition examples are increasing in value every year, making the 82 GT one of the most desirable Fox cars.
SPECIAL FIND. A few automatic transmission models were built, but the actual production numbers are sketchy. They have the 4.2L (255) V8 under the hood despite wearing 5.0 badges on the fenders.
7: 1984 20th anniversary Special Edition
With all the different body styles generated between April 1964 and the 1984 model year, it was hard to believe only 20 years had passed since the Mustang's introduction. Indeed, the model year marked sixth model year of the Fox Mustang, which would end after a run of 15 model years. The Shelby-inspired look of the 20th anniversary "GT-350" models was striking and enthusiasts immediately recognized it's collectible potential. There were 5,260 examples built, and fortunately many have survived in low mileage original condition. They were offered in hatchback and convertible body styles and equipped with either the 5.0L 4 barrel, 5.0L CFI or turbocharged 4 cylinder.
SPECIAL FIND. Convertibles with the turbo four engine. Only 104 were built, making them the rarest of the 20th anniversary models.
6: 1985-1986 GT
To many Fox body enthusiasts, the 85-86 Mustang GT models are the most desirable of the lot. They represent the zenith of the four eyed models' styling and performance. They had restrained good looks, with a more rounded nose and a 1980's appropriate blackout hood graphic with the GT logo. Performance-wise, it's a toss-up. The 85 GT with a manual transmission had a 215HP four barrel fed engine (automatics were saddled with the lower power CFI system) while the 86 models, regardless of transmission, made 200HP with the 5.0's first port fuel injection system. When seeking one to add to your collection, seek the lowest mileage, most original specimen you can find. They're the ones that will be the most valuable in the future.
SPECIAL FIND. To protect Ford's copyright on the Cobra name, the company used it on the Canadian GT starting in 1985. The Cobra name is emblazoned on the hatch of Canadian models, giving them added distinction over U.S. models.
5: 1986-1993 Saleen
Although contemporary Saleen Mustangs are relatively common today, the Fox body examples were race-ready machines that appealed to those more interested in road courses than drag strips. And yes, Steve Saleen started selling his cars to the public in 1984, but it was really the 1986 model year that established the brand as a recognizable and respected manufacturer. Production numbers fluctuated widely during the Fox body years, as did equipment. Vehicles with modified engines appeared in 1989 with the "SSC" designation and, after that "SC" labels. Although nowhere near Shelbys in terms of value, the early Saleen Mustangs have garnered a following that mirrors the interest in Shelby cars in the 70's. Muddying the waters, however, is the fact that Steve Saleen was effectively forced out of the company that still bears his name and he now has nothing to do with it. And if you have your heart set on an 86 model, make sure it has it's original clear headlamp covers.
SPECIAL FIND. Saleen converted a handful of SSP police-model notchbacks that were part of a cancelled order from the state of Oregon.
4:1987-1993 LX 5.0 notch
They are the quintessential 5.0 Mustang; the cars that launched a movement and defined a generation much like the 55 Chevy and 69 Camaro did for previous generations. Yes, the "Notchback" LX models from 87-93 are the 5.0L cars most enthusiasts identify with, and as time goes on they'll be one most collectors will seek out in unmodified form. Why? Because there aren't too many left that haven't been upgraded in one form or another- be it simple bolt-ons or a full fledged race car. In fact, many four cylinder notches have been converted to 5.0L running gear too. Common wear problems on all Fox Mustangs, such as wayward ash tray doors, notoriously thin paint jobs and seats that simply just lose their shape all affect stock models as well as modifieds, making it all the more difficult to locate a pristine example. If you do an untouched notch, resist the urge to modify.
SPECIAL FIND. Sand Beige exterior color. It was pretty common on four cylinders, but scarce on 87 and 88 5.0L's. Only 47 were painted Sand Beige in 1987 and just 23 in 88.
3: 1992 LX 5.0 Summer Feature convertible
A couple of years after the 1990 special edition known as the "7-UP" car, Ford released another seasonally timed special that became known as the summer special edition. All were 5.0L LX convertibles and were distinguished by Vibrant Red paint, including the A-pillars (non-s.e. cars had black pillars), pearl white wheels, a rear spoiler and a white leather interior. Unlike other specials that came after the summer edition firm production numbers vary, but 2,193 is cited by many experts. About one third of those were equipped with a manual transmission. Identification is pretty easy, as no other regular production models had body color A-pillars, door mirrors and window trim. The rear spoiler replaced the standard luggage rack. There's also a radiator support ID tag with the word "FEATURE" stamped on it. The leather is prine to cracking and discoloration, so inspect an interior carefully when shopping.
SPECIAL FIND. Spend the extra time and money to find a five speed model. It will be worth it in the long run.
2: 1993 Cobra
The swan-song for the Fox body Mustang was also it's greatest hit. The 93 Cobra was a refined performer, with a host od unique mechanical and appearance parts. The engine used a unique intake system to help make 235 horsepower- up 20 from the LX-GT's 215HP rating. The suspension was re-tuned as well, for a more compliant ride. Exterior-wise, unique body cladding was added and it looked like the GT's at a glance, but was smoother and without fake scoops. At the rear was a specific rear spoiler and taillights based on the former Mustang SVO. The most identifiable cue, however, was the 17 inch "fan blade" wheels. The Cobra was offered only in red, black and teal; and only 4,993 were built (including a few race-ready "R" models).
SPECIAL FIND. Ford built 107 Cobra R models. They are immediately identifiable by black 5-lug wheels that were pulled ahead from the sn-95 cars (albeit with a different offset) and brake cooling ducts in place of fog lamps. Inside, the rear seat, radio, air conditioning, rear carpet and sound deadening material were all deleted in favor of a lower curb weight. Their rarity and purpose built nature makes the 93 Cobra R just about the most valuable Fox out there.
1: 1982-1993 SSP
Regardless of the car model, there is something undeniably cool about owning and driving a former police car. Much of it due to Elwood Blues' "cop tires, cop shocks" monologue from "The Blues Brothers." Ford built specially equipped Mustang notchbacks for police and other official agencies from 1983 through 1993; they were known by their factory "SSP" designation and despite seeming fairly common, especially in states like California and Florida, the actual production numbers point to only a few hundred built each year. Not surprisingly, few have survived; with many of them in poor condition or long ago sold to enthusiasts who turned them into race cars. Unmarked units are especially desirable. Go to www.sspmustang.org for the information necessary to arm yourself in your search for a collectible SSP.
SPECIAL FIND: Early California Highway Patrol modls or any 1985 SSP. With only 316 produced, 1985 represents the lowest production model year.
Honorable Mention
1979 Cobra
Less distinctive than the 1980-81 models, and overshadowed by the 79 Pace Car.
1983-86 GLX and LX 5.0
Before the popular 5.0L LX of 87-93, customers could still get the high output V8 in non-GT clothing. These were the GLX models of 83-84, and the LX of 85-86.
1983 GT convertible.
Only 1,001 were built, accounting for approximately 3 percent of the total Mustang GT run that year. Right now, only the die hard Foc guys know how rare they are. When the rest of the world finds out, the few remaining examples will appreciate.
1983-84 GT Turbo.
Almost too rare. Most enthusiasts are unaware they were even offered. Better find one now.
1984-86 SVO.
Unquestionably collectible, but these cult cars just haven't garnered the enthusiasm of the V-8 cars...yet. Their day is coming. These cars were fully loaded with luxury options.
1987-90 ASC McLaren.
A roadster conversion that emphasized luxury and exclusivity more than performance, but only 1,806 were built during their 4 year production run.
1990 7-UP convertible.
The first of the seasonal special editions, but a relatively high production run of more than 4,000 makes them more plentiful than the red, white and yellow editions of 92-93.
1993 Feature cars.
Coming on the heels of the successful 1992 "summer" edition, two feature cars were released for 1993. One wearing white paint, white wheels, a white top and white interior, it was known as the "triple white" feature car. The other wearing Canary Yellow paint, a black top and chrome wheels. Each is rarer than the summer edition, making them harder to find.
![[-]](https://mach1club.com/images/collapse.png "[-]")
