1984 Ford Mustang

SVO Hatchback

4 Cylinder 2.3 Liter

Manual

Gasoline

The item listed for auction is a 1984 Ford Mustang SVO. If you know your Mustangs then you know how rare this model really is. Here's a little history of this model taken from Wikepedia: Ford began to make a major push forward with the Mustang in 1982, nearly completely re-inventing every aspect of the vehicle, which included putting a new emphasis on the model's sporty nature. Just prior to this, in the fall of 1981, Ford decided to form a division that could oversee both the company's racing program and the production of limited-edition, high performance street legal vehicles based on or taking technology from the race vehicles. Officially, the division was called the Special Vehicle Operations Department, but the public came to know them as simply SVO (S-V-O). Tasked with developing something that was both plainly American and competent to compete with entry-level European sports cars of the day, the team went to work on the new Mustang, deeming that it was the most obvious choice as a platform basis for a high-performance vehicle. Still ultimately concerned with issues such as fuel consumption and emissions, SVO engineers opted to pass over the venerable Boss 302 in lieu of an updated, turbocharged, and stronger version of Ford's 2.3 liter inline four, originally used in the Pinto. Endowing the engine with an advanced, computer controlled fuel injection system and an intercooled turbocharger system helped push power output to 175 horsepower, fairly high for the time. With fine tuning and the addition of a new water-cooling system, power output rose to 200 horsepower (149 kW) for 1986 (205 horsepower (153 kW) for 439 85.5 SVOs) In addition, a "fuel grade" switch was added to the dash, allowing the driver to adjust the vehicle's performance level depending on if premium or standard grade fuel was being used. The vehicle's standard 5-speed manual transmission was updated as well, eventually receiving revised gearing and a factory installed Hurst shifter to improve feel and quickness. Also the 1986 SVO had different aero shaped headlights. These headlights were designed for the 1984 model, but regulations would not allow them for another two years. One of the major downfalls to the turbocharged inline four was the lack of torque in comparison to the V8, which, in the eyes of former muscle car owners, was considered a severe disadvantage. In addition to the advanced engine, the SVO featured several key modifications over the standard Mustang to help increase performance. The front suspension geometry was modified, f 15:1 ratio power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system replaced the standard system, a limited slip, 3.45:1, 7.5" Traction-Lok axle was added for the first year of production (later models used a 3.73:1 ratio, 7.5" axle), a new, ventilated four-wheel-disc braking system replaced the GT's disc/drum setup (a first for the Fox platform), specially designed pedals were used to aid "heel-and-toe" shifting and a complete Koni suspension system featuring specially tuned adjustable struts, shocks, and horizontal dampers replaced the setup used on the Mustang GT. Five-lug, 16 × 7 inch aluminum wheels wearing P225-50R16 VR Goodyear Eagle "Gatorback" tires were standard as well (originally shod with German Goodyear NCT tires, and later Gatorbacks). The rear disc brakes, the five lug hubs, the sixteen inch (406 mm) wheels, the quad-shock rear end, and the Konis were used on the SVO before any other Mustang. Interior features included adjustable sport seats with lumbar supports, a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, shift lever, and emergency brake handle, power windows, door locks and A/C and a premium stereo system, options that weren't normally found on small American coupes. However, an optional Competition Prep package deleted many of those features to save weight. The exterior had a unique front grill that was only used on the SVO line, and a biplane spoiler that was also unique to the SVO. The car was originally registered to the Ford Motor Company and used as a demo model in '84 and '85. It was taken to different dealerships around Wisconsin and was purchased by a private owner in '86. I have documentation and the registration papers to verify this. It has the original owners and operator manuals. This car has NOT been raced, abused or modified. Drivetrain: It has the original 2.3 Liter intercooled turbo with factory Hurst 5 speed transmission. It starts and runs great. Can be driven anywhere. It has the usual turbo smoke when you kick it down. Does burn a bit of oil. Still has factory Koni adjustable struts and shocks. Tires are in fair condition. Body: The body is totally rust free from top to bottom. There is a little rust starting on the bottom of the doors. The body has a few minor dents, dings and scratches but nothing major. It is missing the passenger side front marker light assembly. The paint is original and faded on the topside but could be buffed out. Interior: Glass, carpet, door panels and center console in very good condition. Dashboard cover is cracked. Needs headliner. Leather on steering wheel and shift knob are cracked. Passenger and rear seats are in good shape. Drivers seat, leather is cracked in a few spots. Does not have a stereo. A.C. worked but needs line replaced. Basically the car could be left as is and used as a daily driver or could be easily restored. I bought it with the intentions or restoring it but don't have the time or cash to do the car justice. Hopefully the buyer knows what he's getting and can give this rare car the treatement it deserves. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. Buyer is responsible for all shipping or delivery costs. I have more pics at http://s813.photobucket.com/albums/zz59/reaganbob2003/