How much is a 1987 Ford F150 worth?
Prices for a 1987 Ford F-150 vary widely based on condition and configuration, but most everyday drivers today fall roughly between $6,000 and $14,000. Exceptional restorations, low-mileage examples, or rare trim levels can exceed that range, potentially reaching into the teens or higher for well-documented, pristine trucks.
Overview: What drives value in a 1987 Ford F-150
The 1987 Ford F-150 sits in the late-1980s era of the model line, when the truck offered a range of configurations from base work trucks to more upscale trims. Values are driven by the same core factors that affect most classic pickups: mechanical condition, originality, mileage, and specific options such as cab style (Regular Cab vs. SuperCab), drivetrain (2WD vs. 4x4), engine choice (straight-six vs. V8), transmission type, and the presence of desirable features or documentation.
Value by condition: typical price bands
Below are rough market bands that buyers and sellers often use as a starting point when evaluating a 1987 F-150. Individual results will vary by region and the truck’s specific configuration.
- Project or parts car: under $5,000
- Fair condition (running with some cosmetic or mechanical needs): $5,000–$8,000
- Good to very good (reliable daily driver, decent cosmetics, solid mechanicals): $8,000–$14,000
- Very good to excellent (well-maintained, clean, documented history): $12,000–$18,000
- Restored or highly original with low miles (desirable trim and options): $18,000–$25,000+
These ranges reflect common asks and recent auction and dealer listings for 1987 F-150s with varying configurations. Individual prices can drift higher or lower based on market demand, provenance, and regional factors.
Key factors that influence price
Several specific elements tend to have outsized impact on what a 1987 F-150 will fetch in today’s market. Understanding these can help a seller maximize value or a buyer gauge worth.
- Drivetrain and engine: 4x4 models, or those with the more desirable V8 or well-maintained inline-6 engines, generally command higher prices than basic 2WD configurations.
- Cab style and trim: Regular Cab versus SuperCab (extended cab), and higher trims like XLT or Lariat typically add value if in good condition.
- Condition and originality: Rust integrity, frame condition, interior wear, paint quality, and how original the truck remains (versus heavily modified) strongly affect value.
- Mileage and service history: Lower miles and well-documented maintenance histories are rewarded in valuations.
- Documentation and provenance: Records, receipts, and known history (e.g., family-owned, prior ownership chain) can boost buyer confidence and price.
In practice, a clean, well-documented example with desirable configuration tends to sit toward the higher end of the bands, while projects or heavily modified/poorly maintained vehicles trend toward the lower end.
Where to check current values
To ground a price in current market reality, consult multiple valuation sources and compare recent sale results. These sources reflect how buyers actually price these trucks today.
- Hagerty Price Guide for classic trucks and antique pickups
- NADA Guides (Classic/Truck sections) for wholesale and retail ranges
- Kelley Blue Book (Classic) for consumer-oriented estimates
- Bring a Trailer and Hemmings Marketplace for recent auction and listing data
- General classic car marketplaces and regional classifieds to gauge local pricing
Prices can vary by region and by current demand, so checking recent listings and auction results in your area is a practical way to calibrate expectations.
How to maximize value if you’re selling a 1987 F-150
Owners looking to sell can take several practical steps to improve perceived value and fetch a better price.
- Address mechanical and cosmetic issues before listing (engine leaks, rust, drivetrain noises, and interior wear).
- Gather maintenance records, receipts, and any documentation of original parts or restorations.
- Consider a professional appraisal or a detailed pre-sale inspection to establish working condition.
- Present a clear history and high-quality photos showing the truck from multiple angles and undercarriage.
- Price competitively by comparing with recent local listings and auction results.
Following these practices can help you reach the upper end of the value bands and attract informed buyers.
Summary
For a 1987 Ford F-150, value hinges on condition, configuration, and provenance. In today’s market, typical asking prices range from roughly $6,000 to $14,000 for everyday, running examples, with higher prices for well-preserved, documented, or restored trucks—especially those with 4x4 capability or premium trims. Always cross-check multiple valuation sources and recent sale results to set an accurate, competitive price. A well-documented history and thorough preparation can materially improve selling outcomes.
Notes on currency and context
Market values for classic trucks can shift with collector interest, regional demand, and the overall condition of the vintage-truck market. The ranges and guidance above reflect general observations in 2025 and are intended as a starting point for estimating value rather than a definitive appraisal.
Final takeaway
If you’re assessing or selling a 1987 Ford F-150, prioritize complete documentation, mechanical reliability, and presentable cosmetics. Use multiple price guides and recent listings to anchor your expectations, and consider professional evaluation for precision pricing.
