1985 Ford Mustang: A Deep Dive into Specs, Performance, and Design Evolution

The 1985 model year marked a significant refresh for the Ford Mustang, injecting a fresh dose of contemporary styling and enhanced performance into the iconic pony car. While the changes might appear subtle at first glance, they signified Ford’s commitment to keeping the Mustang competitive and appealing in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. This update wasn’t just skin deep; it brought noteworthy engine improvements that would excite enthusiasts and boost sales.

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Design Refresh and Styling Cues

The most immediately noticeable change for the 1985 Mustang was the streamlined front end. Ford bid farewell to the slatted grille, opting for a smoother, more aerodynamic design. This new grille borrowed styling cues from the sporty Mustang SVO, giving the standard models a more aggressive and modern appearance. Speaking of the SVO, the updated 1985.5 version received flush headlights, further refining its distinctive look. These front-end modifications, while seemingly minor, collectively contributed to a significantly updated and more contemporary aesthetic for the Mustang.

Engine Performance Boost

Performance enhancements were a key highlight of the 1985 Mustang. The legendary 5.0-liter V-8 engine underwent significant rework to deliver more power and excitement. Engine architecture was revised with the introduction of a new camshaft and free-flowing stainless steel headers. Moreover, Mustang GT models equipped with the 5.0 V8 now benefited from a standard dual exhaust system, further improving breathing and contributing to the power increase. When paired with the five-speed manual transmission, the 5.0-liter engine retained its four-barrel carburetor setup for maximum performance. The results were impressive: horsepower jumped to 210, and torque climbed to 270 lb-ft. This was a substantial improvement compared to the previous year’s 175 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. The 5.0 V8 paired with the automatic transmission remained unchanged at 165 horsepower. Notably, the Turbo GT model was discontinued, making the GT a purely V-8 powered experience.

However, Ford didn’t abandon turbocharging altogether. The Mustang SVO, as part of its 1985.5 update, received upgrades to its 2.3-liter turbocharged inline-four engine. Benefiting from a larger camshaft, an enhanced exhaust system, and a boost pressure increase, the SVO saw a remarkable 15 percent power bump, reaching 205 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. Even the 3.8-liter V-6 engine saw improvements, with horsepower increasing to 120 (from 112) and torque rising to 205 lb-ft (from 175). The base 2.3-liter inline-four engine remained unchanged, producing a reliable 89 horsepower.

Trim Levels and Pricing Strategy

Ford streamlined the Mustang trim level lineup for 1985. The base “L” trim was discontinued, and the LX became the new entry-level Mustang. Ford strategically positioned the LX notchback version to attract budget-conscious buyers. With a starting price of $6,989 (approximately $17,300 in today’s money), the LX notchback was about $500 cheaper than the LX hatchback. This price difference was significant, as previous years typically saw only a $200 gap between the two body styles in base trim.

Sales Success and Market Impact

The updates for the 1985 model year proved to be a successful move for Ford. Mustang sales experienced a ten percent increase, reversing a downward trend from previous years. This positive turnaround was largely attributed to stronger sales of the GT model, likely driven by the significant horsepower increase in manual transmission versions and the refreshed front-end styling, demonstrating the appeal of performance and updated looks to Mustang enthusiasts.

1985 Ford Mustang Specs Overview

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