Third Generation Ford Mustang “Fox Body” (1979 – 1993)

Overview:
The Third Generation marked a significant departure from the Mustang II, utilizing Ford’s versatile Fox platform (also used for the Fairmont). This generation brought back a focus on performance, particularly with the V8 models, while offering a modern, European-influenced design. Spanning 15 model years with one major facelift, the Fox Body is beloved for its lightweight chassis, huge aftermarket support, and the return of genuine performance, especially with the legendary 5.0L High Output (HO) V8 engine.

Key Differences from Second Generation (Mustang II):

• Platform: Moved to the larger, more capable Fox platform, allowing for better packaging and performance potential.
• Design: Sleeker, more aerodynamic, European-inspired styling compared to the smaller, somewhat baroque Mustang II. Available as a notchback coupe and hatchback (convertible returned later).
• Performance Focus: A clear return to performance, especially after the first few years. The 5.0L HO V8 became an icon of affordable performance.
• Longevity & Evolution: Longest-running generation with significant evolution in powertrain and styling over its 15-year lifespan.

Detailed Model Year Changes (Divided into Pre-Facelift ’79-’86 and Facelift ’87-’93):

Phase 1: Four-Eyed Foxes (1979-1986)

• 1979:

  • Models: Notchback Coupe, Hatchback. Trim levels: Base, Ghia (luxury), Cobra (sporty appearance/handling). Pace Car Replica (Hatchback) offered.
  • Engines: 2.3L Lima I4 (base), 2.3L Turbo I4 (optional, ~132 hp), 2.8L Cologne V6 (carried over, dropped mid-year), 3.3L (200ci) Inline-6 (replaced V6), 5.0L (302ci) V8 (marketed as 5.0, ~140 hp).
  • Features: All-new chassis based on Fox platform, modified MacPherson strut front suspension, four-link coil spring rear suspension (different geometry for V8/Turbo). Metric sizing (TRX wheels/tires) optional on Turbo/V8. Cobra package included non-functional hood scoop, spoilers, graphics, upgraded suspension.
  • Styling: Wedge shape, quad rectangular headlights (“Four Eyes”), slant-back grille. Cleaner lines than Mustang II.

• 1980:

  • Models: Coupe, Hatchback. Ghia, Cobra continue.
  • Engines: Big change: 5.0L V8 replaced by a smaller, economy-focused 4.2L (255ci) V8 (~118 hp). 2.3L I4, 2.3L Turbo I4, 3.3L I6 continue. Turbo performance inconsistent.
  • Features: Halogen headlights become standard. Cobra package revised. Less focus on performance this year.
  • Styling: Minor changes. Hood scoop removed from Cobra package.

• 1981:

  • Models: Coupe, Hatchback. Ghia, Cobra continue.
  • Engines: 2.3L I4, 2.3L Turbo I4 (performance still lacking), 3.3L I6, 4.2L V8. Traction-Lok rear axle optional.
  • Features: Optional T-tops return. Five-speed manual overdrive transmission becomes optional on I4 models.
  • Styling: Minimal changes. Cobra package mostly decals.

• 1982:

  • Models: Coupe, Hatchback. Trim levels reorganized: L, GL, GLX, and the return of the GT (Hatchback only). Ghia and Cobra names dropped.
  • Engines: Return of the 5.0L High Output (HO) V8! (~157 hp) Available only in the GT. Featured 2-barrel carb, aluminum intake, performance cam. 2.3L I4, 3.3L I6, 4.2L V8 continue in lower trims. 2.3L Turbo dropped temporarily.
  • Features: GT model featured front air dam, rear spoiler, optional hood scoop, specific graphics, upgraded suspension. “The Boss is Back!” marketing campaign.
  • Styling: GT model gets aggressive appearance package. Other trims similar to previous years.

• 1983:

  • Models: Coupe, Hatchback, Convertible returns! (GLX and GT trims). L, GL, GLX, GT trims.
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8 upgraded with 4-barrel Holley carburetor (~175 hp). 2.3L I4 continues. 3.3L I6 replaced by new 3.8L Essex V6 (~112 hp). 2.3L Turbo I4 returns with fuel injection (~145 hp), available in Turbo GT (Coupe/Hatchback). 4.2L V8 dropped.
  • Features: Borg-Warner T-5 five-speed manual becomes standard on GT and Turbo GT. Convertible features power top.
  • Styling: Front fascia slightly revised with a more rounded nose and updated grille. “Blue Oval” Ford logo added to grille. GT gets fog lamps in front air dam.

• 1984:

  • Models: Coupe, Hatchback, Convertible. L, LX (replaces GL/GLX), GT, Turbo GT. Introduction of the SVO model.
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8 available with new electronic fuel injection (EFI) mid-year (~165 hp) or 4-barrel carb (~175 hp). 2.3L I4, 3.8L V6 continue. Turbo GT continues with 2.3L Turbo I4 (~145 hp). SVO features intercooled 2.3L Turbo I4 (~175 hp).
  • Features: SVO (Special Vehicle Operations) model introduced: focused on handling and technology. Featured unique suspension, 4-wheel disc brakes, adjustable Koni shocks, unique biplane rear spoiler, offset hood scoop feeding intercooler, specific interior with adjustable seats. GT suspension revised (Quadra-Shock rear setup on manuals).
  • Styling: SVO has unique front fascia, taillights, wheels, and spoilers. Other models largely carry over. GT gets charcoal hood decal option.

• 1985:

  • Models: Coupe, Hatchback, Convertible. L, LX, GT, SVO. Turbo GT dropped.
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8 significantly upgraded with roller camshaft, new headers, forged pistons (manual trans only), Holley 4-barrel carb standard (~210 hp). EFI version optional (~180 hp). 2.3L I4, 3.8L V6 continue. SVO Turbo I4 power increased (~175 hp early, ~205 hp later with flush headlights).
  • Features: GT gets revised suspension tuning. SVO continues with handling focus.
  • Styling: Revised front fascia for all models (except SVO) with wider grille opening. GT gets new front air dam with integrated fog lights. SVO gets flush single headlights mid-year.

• 1986:

  • Models: Coupe, Hatchback, Convertible. L, LX, GT, SVO. Final year for SVO and “Four Eye” styling.
  • Engines: Multi-port Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) becomes standard on 5.0L HO V8 (~200 hp – slightly lower peak HP but better drivability). 2.3L I4, 3.8L V6 continue. SVO Turbo I4 (~200 hp).
  • Features: Federally mandated Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) added. Upgraded 8.8-inch rear axle replaces 7.5-inch on V8 models. True dual exhaust on V8.
  • Styling: Minimal changes except CHMSL. Last year for the quad headlight design.

Phase 2: Aero Foxes (1987-1993)

• 1987 (Major Facelift):

  • Models: Coupe (Notchback), Hatchback, Convertible. Trim levels simplified to LX and GT. SVO dropped.
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8 power increased (~225 hp, 300 lb-ft torque) due to new cylinder heads (E7TE), better intake manifold, and other tweaks. 2.3L I4 (~90 hp) standard on LX. 3.8L V6 dropped.
  • Features: Interior completely redesigned with a more modern, ergonomic dashboard and controls. GT gets specific seats with power lumbar/bolsters. Suspension geometry revised.
  • Styling: Exterior significantly updated (“Aero” look). Flush composite headlights, integrated front bumper/air dam, smooth body sides (side scoops removed), new taillights. GT gets specific lower body cladding, round fog lights, rear spoiler, and unique “Turbine” wheels. LX models look cleaner, often preferred for sleeper builds.

• 1988:

  • Models: LX, GT (Coupe, Hatchback, Convertible).
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8 and 2.3L I4 carry over. Power ratings remain the same.
  • Features: Minor tweaks. T-5 manual transmission upgraded for higher torque capacity.
  • Styling: No significant changes.

• 1989:

  • Models: LX, GT.
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8 now uses a Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor system (except California automatics initially), allowing for easier modification. Power ratings officially remain 225 hp but MAF cars often performed better. 2.3L I4 continues.
  • Features: Driver’s side airbag becomes optional late in the year.
  • Styling: No significant changes.

• 1990:

  • Models: LX, GT. Limited Edition Emerald Green LX 5.0 Convertible offered (unofficially celebrating Mustang’s 25th Anniversary).
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8, 2.3L I4.
  • Features: Driver’s side airbag becomes standard. Tilt steering wheel revised. Clear coat added to paint.
  • Styling: Minor interior trim changes.

• 1991:

  • Models: LX, GT.
  • Engines: 2.3L I4 gets power increase (~105 hp) due to distributorless ignition and revised cylinder head (dual plug). 5.0L HO V8 continues (~225 hp).
  • Features: New 16-inch five-spoke “Pony” wheels optional on LX 5.0 and standard on GT.
  • Styling: GT lower body cladding slightly restyled. New wheel designs.

• 1992:

  • Models: LX, GT. Limited Edition Vibrant Red LX 5.0 Convertible offered.
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8, 2.3L I4.
  • Features: Minor tweaks. “LX 5.0” fender badges changed slightly.
  • Styling: Body side moldings become body color on LX. GT fog lights revised slightly.

• 1993 (Final Year for Fox Body):

  • Models: LX, GT. Introduction of the SVT Cobra and Cobra R. Limited Edition Canary Yellow LX 5.0 Convertible and White-on-white LX 5.0 Convertible offered.
  • Engines: 5.0L HO V8 (~205 hp – revised rating due to hypereutectic pistons, actual output similar). 2.3L I4 (~105 hp). SVT Cobra features modified 5.0L V8 with GT40 heads, specific intake, cam (~235 hp).
  • Features: SVT (Special Vehicle Team) Cobra introduced: focused performance model with upgraded engine, 4-wheel disc brakes, unique suspension tuning, specific interior/exterior trim. Cobra R was a stripped-down, race-ready version (no radio, A/C, rear seat).
  • Styling: Cobra featured unique grille, front fascia, rear spoiler, taillights, and wheels. Otherwise, LX/GT largely unchanged. End of the long-running Fox platform era for Mustang.

Interesting Facts & Packages:

• Fox Platform Versatility: Underpinned numerous Ford vehicles, contributing to low cost and huge parts interchangeability.
• 5.0 HO: Became synonymous with affordable V8 performance in the 80s and 90s. Huge aftermarket following.
• SVO: A technologically advanced, limited-production model focused on handling and turbo power, now a cult classic.
• SVT Cobra: Marked the beginning of Ford’s Special Vehicle Team creating high-performance Mustangs.
• Aftermarket Support: Arguably one of the most modified cars ever, with endless parts available for performance and appearance.

Useful Info by Model/Trim (Examples):

• LX: Base trim, available with I4 or V8 (LX 5.0). Lighter than GT, often used for drag racing builds. Cleaner “Aero” look from ’87-’93.
• GT: Top trim (after ’82). Always V8 (except ’83-’84 Turbo GT). Included appearance upgrades (spoilers, body cladding ’87+), fog lights, upgraded suspension, sportier interior elements.
• Cobra (1979-1981): Primarily an appearance and handling package.
• SVO (1984-1986): High-tech Turbo I4 model with focus on handling, braking, and unique features.
• SVT Cobra (1993): Limited production performance model with upgraded engine, brakes, suspension, and unique styling.

Common Problems & Considerations for Owners:

• Rust: Less prone than earlier generations but still check floor pans, strut towers (especially near battery tray), hatchback/trunk areas, and lower doors/fenders.
• Chassis Flex: The Fox platform, especially convertibles and T-top cars, can suffer from chassis flex under hard use. Subframe connectors are a very common upgrade.
• Interior Wear: Plastic trim can become brittle/crack, upholstery can wear, headliners sag.
• TFI Module Issues (Pre-’86 V8): Distributor-mounted Thick Film Ignition module prone to heat failure.
• AOD Automatic Transmission (V8): Not known for strength in stock form, often rebuilt or replaced for performance applications. T-5 manual is generally preferred but can also have issues (synchros, input shaft bearing) under high power.
• Quadra-Shock Rear Suspension (’84-’86 manual GT): Can bind under certain conditions; some owners remove the horizontal shocks.
• Leaks: Oil leaks (rear main seal, valve covers), coolant leaks, power steering leaks are common on older examples.

Engine & Power Stats (SAE Net HP – Selected Examples):

• 2.3L Lima I4: ~88 hp (’79) -> ~105 hp (’91-’93)
• 2.3L Turbo I4: ~132 hp (’79) -> ~145 hp (’83-’84) -> ~175-205 hp (SVO ’84-’86)
• 4.2L V8: ~118 hp (’80-’81)
• 5.0L V8: ~140 hp (’79) -> ~157 hp (’82 GT) -> ~175 hp (’83-’84 4bbl) -> ~210 hp (’85 4bbl) -> ~200 hp (’86 EFI) -> ~225 hp (’87-’92 EFI HO) -> ~205 hp (’93 EFI HO) -> ~235 hp (’93 Cobra)
• 3.8L Essex V6: ~112 hp (’83) -> ~120 hp (’86)

Transmission Options:

• 4-speed Manual (SROD – Single Rail Overdrive)
• 5-speed Manual (Borg-Warner T-5 – various versions)
• 3-speed Automatic (C3, C4, C5 depending on engine/year)
• 4-speed Automatic Overdrive (AOD – V8/V6)

Helpful Info/Resources:

• Numerous Fox Body specific forums (e.g., Corral.net, StangNet, SVTPerformance)
• Vast aftermarket parts availability (Late Model Restoration, CJ Pony Parts, American Muscle, etc.)
• Specialty tuners and restoration shops.

Call to Action Idea:
“The Fox Body brought Mustang performance back! Whether you’re cruising in an LX 5.0, carving corners in a GT, or owning a rare SVO or Cobra, keep it running right. Find your detailed Mustang workshop manual Fox Body Workshop Manual here.