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What is the difference between the 86 Mustang LX and GT?

The main difference is that the GT is the performance-oriented variant with a bigger V8 and sport-tuned hardware, while the LX is the base model with smaller engine options and simpler trim.

In 1986 Ford kept the Fox-body Mustang lineup simple but distinct: LX offered a practical, more affordable package, whereas the GT aimed at drivers who prioritized power and sporty styling. Below is a detailed look at how these two trims diverged in practice, from what was under the hood to how the cars looked and felt on the road.

Power and performance

Before diving into the specifics, note that the 1986 GT was built to deliver more straight-line and overall performance than the LX. The following highlights compare typical configurations and what buyers could expect when choosing between the two.

GT engines and tuning: The Mustang GT commonly featured the 5.0-liter V8, configured for higher horsepower and torque, with fuel-injection and a sport-oriented exhaust. This setup was designed for stronger acceleration and highway passing power.

LX engines and options: The LX line primarily used a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine as standard, prioritizing efficiency and everyday drivability. While a V8 option existed in some late-1980s LX configurations, the 2.3L was the typical baseline for LX cars.

Overall performance focus: The GT emphasized performance-oriented acceleration, sound, and feel, while the LX emphasized economy, comfort, and lower running costs.

In practical terms, buyers seeking brisk, confident acceleration and a more aggressive engine note typically chose the GT, while those prioritizing lower fuel use and a simpler ownership experience leaned toward the LX.

Chassis, handling, and ride quality

The two models also differed in how they handled and how stiff the ride felt, contributing to the distinct driving experiences they offered.

Suspension and handling: The GT carried a sport-tuned suspension setup designed to improve cornering and stability, especially at higher speeds or during spirited driving.

Ride comfort and everyday usability: The LX used a more conventional suspension tuned for comfort and daily driving, resulting in a smoother, less aggressive feel on common roads.

Drivers who valued a more engaging, road-hugging feel tended to pick the GT, while those wanting a gentler, more retreat-from-the-road experience often chose the LX.

Exterior styling and visual cues

Exterior cues helped distinguish the trims at a glance, reflecting their different roles in the lineup.

GT styling: The GT featured sportier visual touches, such as distinctive badges, and typically included dual exhaust, body-color trim, and more aggressive exterior detailing that signaled its performance intent.

LX styling: The LX favored a more understated look with simpler trim, fewer performance-oriented badges, and standard wheel options that aligned with a more value-oriented buyer segment.

For many buyers, the GT’s visual cues—badges, exhaust, and sharper lines—made its performance focus immediately obvious, while the LX presented a more basic, everyday appearance.

Interior and equipment

Interiors and equipment reflected the trims’ differing priorities, with the GT offering sportier touches and the LX centering on practicality and cost-conscious features.

GT interior cues: The GT often included sportier seats, more aggressive instrumentation, and optional features aimed at enhancing the driving experience, such as upgraded gauges and sport-oriented trim.

LX interior cues: The LX typically offered more modest interior appointments, with essential comfort and convenience features and fewer performance-focused enhancements.

Ultimately, the GT interior aimed to complement the performance character, while the LX interior favored straightforward usability and lower ownership friction.

Practical takeaway for buyers

When choosing between the 1986 Mustang LX and GT, consider how you plan to use the car and what you value most in a vintage Mustang: raw performance and a more aggressive presence (GT) or economical operation and a simpler, more affordable package (LX).

In summary, the GT stands out for power, sport-tuned dynamics, and distinctive styling cues, while the LX offers a more modest, everyday-driving experience with fewer performance-oriented features.

Summary

The 1986 Mustang LX and GT shared a chassis but diverged in powertrains, handling, styling, and interiors. The GT was the performance-focused choice with the V8, sport suspension, and bold visual cues, while the LX served as a more economical, everyday-friendly option with the 2.3-liter engine as standard and a simpler, less aggressive presentation overall. Buyers in that era, and collectors today, weigh the GT’s performance appeal against the LX’s practicality and value when evaluating these Fox-body classics.

What year Mustang to stay away from?

Years to generally avoid include the 2010-2012 models for reliability and quality issues, the 1974-1978 Mustang II for poor performance, and the 2015-2017 models for various problems with the new generation, such as transmission issues, oil leaks, and electrical glitches. Some 2011-2019 models may also have manual transmission problems.
Years to avoid and why

1974-1978 Mustang II: Widely considered one of the least reliable and underperforming generations due to its smaller engines and performance compromises, says Palmetto Ford.
2010-2012 Ford Mustang: These years had several issues, including complaints about paint and body defects, and subpar interior materials that didn't hold up well over time.
- 2010: Often called the "down-syndrome" version of the S197 refresh for its issues before the introduction of the Coyote engine in 2011, notes Reddit users.
- 2012: Faced complaints about paint problems and manual transmission issues, including difficulty shifting when cold and premature clutch wear.
2011-2019 Ford Mustang (manual transmission): The Getrag MT82 manual transmission in these model years has a reputation for problems and is the subject of lawsuits, reports Lethal Performance.
2015-2017 Ford Mustang: This was the first year for the new generation (S550), which had a number of bugs.
- 2015: Had high numbers of complaints, particularly for transmission problems and electrical quirks.
- 2016: Faced issues with oil leaks from the engine cooler hose, which could lead to engine failure, says Pedal Commander.
- 2017: Similar to 2015 and 2016, it had its share of reliability issues.
2019-2020 Ford Mustang: These years were subject to recalls related to the brake system warning light, which may not have worked properly in some cases.

Other model years to consider

1980-1981 V8: The V8 engines during this period were underpowered, a result of fuel crisis restrictions.
1969 Mustang E: Considered a "worst" model due to its slow performance, which was sacrificed for fuel economy.

What is the difference between Foxbody GT and LX?

The main differences between a Foxbody LX and GT are visual styling and standard features. The GT is identifiable by its aggressive styling, which includes specific ground effects, a front bumper with integrated fog lights, and a different rear spoiler. The LX has a more conservative look, and was the only model available as a "notchback" (with a trunk), while all hardtop GTs were hatchbacks. Performance-wise, an LX equipped with the 5.0L V8 engine was mechanically identical to a GT in terms of engine, suspension, and brakes, and was often slightly lighter, making it potentially faster.

You can watch this video to see a walk-around of a Foxbody Mustang GT and LX: 57sThe Family’s GarageYouTube · Oct 6, 2024
Visual and feature differences

Feature	LX	GT
Body kit	No ground effects on rocker panels	Ground effects (front, rear, and side skirts)
Front bumper	Standard bumper	Bumper with integrated round fog lights
Rear spoiler	Standard spoiler	Taller, flatter spoiler
Tailpipes	Straight tailpipes	Angled, downward-facing tailpipes
Body style	Available as a hatchback or a "notchback" (trunk) coupe	Available as a hatchback or convertible (hardtops were hatchback only)

Engine: Both models could be equipped with the 5.0L V8 engine. However, the LX was also available with four-cylinder and six-cylinder engines, whereas GTs were V8-only.
Weight: The LX 5.0 was slightly lighter than the GT, as it lacked the extra body kit.
Performance parts: For models with the same 5.0L V8, the engine, transmission, suspension, and braking components were identical, meaning the performance was the same.

This video discusses the differences in features like sport bucket seats and steering wheels between LX and GT models: 58s417 FOXYouTube · Dec 21, 2020

What are the trim levels for 1986 Mustang?

The LX, GT, and SVO trio carried on for one more year. The base trim is still available in the three body styles (notchback, hatchback, and convertible). The GT was still orderable as either a hatchback or convertible. And, of course, the SVO was hatchback-only.

How much horsepower did a 1986 Mustang GT have?

200 hp
For 1986, Ford released the first multiport fuel-injected 302 cu in (4.9 L) V8, rated at 200 hp (149 kW; 203 PS). In 1986, the Mustang GT saw drivetrain upgrades including a new 10.5-inch (upgraded from 10") clutch.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.