How much was a Ford Ranger in 1988?
In 1988, a new Ford Ranger typically ranged from roughly $7,800 for base Regular Cab models to about $12,000 or more for higher-trim SuperCab and 4x4 configurations.
To understand that figure, this article examines the Ranger's 1988 lineup, what determined price differences (cab style, drivetrain, and engine), and how those sticker prices compare to today’s dollars. It also places the Ranger in the market against its peers at the time.
Pricing in 1988
Representative sticker prices in 1988 varied by configuration, with a broad range reflecting trim, cab style, and drivetrain. The figures below reflect typical dealer catalogs and automotive guides from that year.
- Base Ranger XL Regular Cab with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder, 2WD: about $7,800–$8,500
- Ranger with a more powerful engine or higher-trim package, still 2WD: about $9,000–$11,000
- XLT or premium trims (often with extra interior and exterior features), 2WD: about $11,000–$12,500
- 4x4 variants and/or SuperCab configurations: add roughly $1,500–$3,000 on top of the above, depending on options
Prices varied by region, dealership, color, and optional equipment, and may have represented suggested sticker prices rather than final negotiated prices.
Inflation context
To compare 1988 prices with today, economists use the Consumer Price Index. Roughly, a price of about $8,000 in 1988 is equivalent to around $20,000–$24,000 in today’s money, reflecting roughly two-and-a-half to three times inflation over the period. The exact conversion depends on the specific month and year used for the comparison.
Translating to today’s dollars
For readers evaluating how a 1988 Ranger price stacks up against modern pickups, use an inflation calculator to convert a specific year and month. The general rule is that older sticker prices appear modest in today’s dollars, but contemporary trucks include more features and safety gear that change the value proposition.
Market context
In 1988, the Ford Ranger competed with compact pickups from Toyota, Chevrolet (S-10), and Nissan, among others. Street prices for those peers in similar trims tracked in the same ballpark, with differences driven by engine choice, cab configuration, and 4x4 options. The Ranger distinguished itself with available extended cab and mid-range trim levels that appealed to buyers needing more cargo space or interior comfort without stepping up to a full-size pickup.
Summary
In short, a new Ford Ranger in 1988 carried a sticker price that typically ranged from about $7,800 for base Regular Cab models up to around $12,000 or more for higher trims, 4x4s, and extended cab configurations. Those prices reflect factory MSRPs and would have varied by dealer, region, and options. When adjusted for inflation, the 1988 figures translate to roughly the price of a modern compact pickup with similar trim levels, though the market now offers more features and higher base prices across brands.
How much did a car cost in 1988?
In 1988, the average new car price was approximately $13,933, though this varied significantly depending on the make and model. For example, a basic economy car like the 1988 Honda Civic DX started at around $8,195, while a larger or more luxurious car like the 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme cost close to $29,600.
Average prices
- Overall average: About $13,933
- General Motors (average base price): $14,185
- Ford Motor Co. (average base price): $13,273
- Chrysler Corp. (average base price): $10,817
Examples of specific models
- 1988 Plymouth Colt DL: ~$7,949
- 1988 Honda Civic DX: ~$8,195
- 1988 Buick Skylark: ~$25,208
- 1988 Nissan Sentra: ~$17,538
- 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme: ~$29,600
How much did a Ford Ranger cost in 1988?
Price
| Style | Invoice | MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 2dr 4WD Standard Cab LB | $0 | $11,400 |
| 2dr Extended Cab SB | $0 | $10,091 |
| 2dr 4WD Extended Cab SB | $0 | $12,356 |
| 2dr GT Standard Cab SB | $0 | $12,256 |
How much was a Ford Ranger in 1986?
The 1986 Ford Ranger MSRP ranged from approximately $6,367 for the base model to over $11,000 for the high-end trims. The exact price depended on the specific configuration, such as cab size, trim level (e.g., S, XLT, STX), and whether it was 2WD or 4WD. For example, the STX Extended Cab 4WD model had a higher MSRP of $11,398.
- Base Model: The 2dr S Standard Cab SB started at around $6,367.
- Mid-Range Trims: An XLT Standard Cab with a short bed (SB) had an MSRP of $8,219, while the STX Standard Cab SB was $8,589.
- High-End Trims: An STX Extended Cab 4WD model had the highest MSRP at $11,398.
How much was a new Ford Ranger in 1998?
1998 Ford Ranger Regular Cab pricing starts at $3,787 for the Ranger Regular Cab Short Bed, which had a starting MSRP of $11,575 when new. The range-topping 1998 Ranger Regular Cab Splash Short Bed starts at $4,305 today, originally priced from $15,195. KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.)
