[tdf]

82 vs later years Fox Body?

I have a lead on a pretty nice 1982 GT 4 speed that I'm considering buying. I like to tinker and will be fixing any issues as well as upgrading for some performance gains but nothing really big.

I need some opinions since this will be my first Mustang (I have owned and modified other cars so I'm not exactly a novice). Will I be happy with the 82 vs a later model in the Fox series? I don't mind having a carbed engine, I already have an 86 Ford pickup that is carbed. What advantages are there in the later years other than 5 speed and FE?

Thanks in advance for the help!

[tdf]

Thanks for all the opinions there guys and gals!!!

[neverfastenough]

If you are happy with the carb and the 4 speed, it is basically the same platform and can be upgraded the same as later years. The 82 Gt came with 3.08 gears. If you did a good H/C/I & carb swap you would be up there with the later models as far as stock hp, but as it is hp is like 60 -70 less than later foxes. You will have traction bar instead of quad shocks. The interior will be basically the same, but different dash and console. Basically it is just as good a place to start if you can get it cheaper or if you just like the four-eyed look.

[tdf]

"neverfastenough"

That's the kind of feedback that is helpful to a newbie to Mustangs. I'm a retired guy looking for something cheap to modify that over time needs a lot of work. I have the time and I think it is fun.

Be safe over there!!!

Thanks for serving!!!

[neverfastenough]

Not a problem, its my third and hopefully last time over, but I am sure they will get me again. The good thing about these cars is there is always something you can do to it, and it will need fixing since they are old. You can do a lot and plan it out in order so you don't have to do it all at once. Good luck with the car if you get it.

[342stroker]

my buddy has an 83 four speed and just for info it has headers and full duals with cats and flowmasters, summit intake manifold, and electric fan, and 3.55s running a 14.7 in the quarter. Not to bad for having less power. Still faster then an later automatic car.

[tdf]

The main reason I'm looking at earlier GTs is in WA we have emissions testing until the car is 26 years old or older.

I fear spending for mods and then finding out I can't pass emissions with the mods.

[usmcsawgunner]

theres always a way around emmission checks .....