How much horsepower does a 1987 Ford GT have?
There was no production model called the 1987 Ford GT. The closest reference to a “GT” from Ford that year is the Mustang GT, which used a 5.0-liter V8 rated around 225 horsepower. This article explains what Ford offered in 1987 and the horsepower figures most commonly cited for those cars.
Context: Was there truly a 1987 Ford GT?
In 1987 Ford did not market a vehicle under the name Ford GT. The GT40 lineage that produced famous Le Mans racers effectively rested after the late 1960s, and the badge in the mid-to-late 1980s appeared on performance-oriented variants of the Mustang rather than a distinct model called “Ford GT.” The most relevant 1987 Ford performance options were the Mustang GT and, separately, the Mustang SVO, which used different powerplants and output figures.
Horsepower figures for the closest 1987 Ford options
Before listing the typical horsepower figures, note that ratings can vary by market and by the measurement standard used (SAE net vs. gross). The figures below reflect common showroom numbers cited for the year.
- 1987 Ford Mustang GT with a 5.0-liter V8: about 225 horsepower (SAE net)
- 1987 Ford Mustang SVO with a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine: about 205 horsepower (SAE net)
These are the primary horsepower figures most often associated with Ford’s 1987 performance lineup. They illustrate why there isn’t a separate “1987 GT” model and why the Mustang’s V8 variant is the figure people typically reference when discussing a 1987 “GT.”
Notes on measurement and context
Horsepower ratings have varied over time due to changes in testing methods and emissions equipment. In the United States, SAE net horsepower became standard in the 1970s, which generally yields lower numbers than earlier gross ratings. Always check the original window sticker or a trusted archive for a precise figure for a specific car.
Summary
There was no official 1987 Ford GT. The horsepower most people associate with a 1987 Ford “GT” comes from the Mustang GT’s 5.0-liter V8, rated around 225 hp, while the Mustang SVO offered about 205 hp from its turbocharged 2.3-liter engine. If you’re researching a specific car, confirm the exact model and year with the vehicle’s documentation, as horsepower can vary by market and options.
