1982 Ford Mustang Specs & Details

Ford turns the Mustang in the right direction with the launch of the 1982 model year. After several years, Ford’s pony car has something impressive under the hood. This new high-output 302 cubic-inch V-8 (also dubbed the 5.0 Windsor) came with an overhead valve and dual carburetor setup. While 157 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque are mild by today’s standards, this small-block Ford put some needed oomph in the Mustang’s engine bay.

At the same time, Ford said goodbye to the Cobra and reintroduced the hatchback-only GT as the Mustang’s standard performance variant. So, if you want to spout off some ‘Stang trivia, just remember that 1982 was the first year for the 5.0 GT. Enthusiasts also loved that the high-output engine was available in all Mustang trims. Other powerplants included the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine and the available 3.3-liter inline-six. Even the lowly 4.2-liter V-8 and its 120 horsepower limped along for another year.

In addition to axing the Cobra, Ford reworked the other Mustang trims. The GLX took the place of the Ghia, and the GL debuted as the mid-tier Mustang. Ford also offered a coupe-only Mustang L for price-sensitive shoppers. The Blue Oval now provided a progression of Mustangs (L, GL, GLX, and GT) that included more easy-to-identify base equipment as you went up the alphabet (sort of). In doing this, Ford borrowed a page from Japanese automakers that were becoming more successful in the U.S. during the 1980s.

The Mustang L was mainly an entry-level vehicle with standard features like high-back vinyl front buckets seats and “deluxe” wheel covers. However, the ability to add any engine and selective options (such as air conditioning) meant buyers could spend their money where they wanted to. The popular GL variant was the cheapest Mustang hatchback available. The upgraded interior and blacked-out exterior trim offered just enough sportiness (especially with the 5.0 engine) without breaking the bank. Leather was even an option.

Regrettably, Ford still offered the hideous fake vinyl convertible top (for only the coupe) and wire wheel covers options. And for the luxury-minded Mustang buyer, the GLX embraced faux wood dashboard inserts and deep-pile carpeting for a very 80s premium experience. Interestingly, the GT’s base engine was the four-banger, so don’t assume every ‘82 GT has the 5.0 engine. Fortunately, Recaro front buckets carried over as an option for the GT.

Notably, Ford officially put together its Special Vehicle Operation (SVO) team in 1982, but buyers would have to wait until 1984 to see the results.

1982 Ford Mustang Specs

1982 Mustang Articles

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  Mustang SVO: Everything You Need To Know

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  Fox Body Hatchback vs Notchback

Check out other 1979-1993 Mustang Specs: 1979, 1980, 1981, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993