1990 Ford Mustang Specs & Details
The Fox Body entered its 12th model year as the 90s began. But despite a new decade, Mustang changes were minimal and
mainly focused on safety. In response to federal regulations, Ford added an airbag to the steering wheel, which
meant no more tilt steering wheel. An airbag for the front passenger was optional, and the rear lap belts were
updated with three-point harnesses. With not much to promote, Ford made a point of calling attention to the LX 5.0L
Sport that debuted in the previous year. “Introduced in 1989, the LX 5.0L was an immediate success.” was how the
automaker put it in the Mustang’s 1990 sales brochure. It was a no-brainer formula, GT power and suspension without
the GT’s price.
The LX 5.0L embraced the GT’s 225 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. At the same time, nitrogen gas-pressurized
fronts struts and a rear Quadra-Shock configuration meant the LX 5.0L could handle corners just as well as the
straightaways. Even the GT’s quick ratio turning setup and Traction-Lok axle were transferred to this trim. Not to
mention, GT sport seats found a home in here, too.
Then why buy a GT, you ask? It came down to looks and bragging rights. The muscular ground effects body treatment was
exclusive to the GT, and the GT badging let everyone know you were driving the king of the hill Mustang (all the LX
5.0L got were the 5.0 badges on the front fenders). With 1990 sales dropping to almost half of what they were in the
previous year, Ford was grateful for every Mustang that drove away from the dealer.
Speaking of badges, Ford continued to mark the Mustang’s 25th anniversary by adding a commemorative dash plaque for
all ‘Stang models built through April 17, 1990 (the first Mustang was officially launched on April 17, 1964). To the
disappointment of fans, there was no specific 25th-anniversary edition.
The GT was available in hatchback and convertible body style, and the LX 5.0L and base LX (still powered by the
2.3-liter inline-four and its 89 horsepower) could be had as a notchback coupe, hatchback, or convertible. To
incentive Mustang buyers towards the higher trims (and away from the base car), Ford made air conditioning standard
on the GT and LX 5.0L. A pallet of 12 mostly muted colors (including one yellow and three reds) was available.
Still, interestingly a white interior was added for 1990 (it was the only option available with every exterior
color).
1990 Ford Mustang Specs
| Engine |
HP |
TQ |
| 2.3L I-4 |
89 |
120 |
| 5.0L 2V HO V8 |
225 |
300 |
| Model |
Engine |
| LX |
2.3L I-4 |
| LX 5.0 |
5.0L 2V HO V8 |
| GT |
5.0L 2V HO V8 |
| Color Name |
Color Code |
| Race Yellow |
AG |
| Wild Strawberry |
EL |
| Vermillion |
EP |
| Light Titanium |
YC |
| Dark Titanium |
YF |
| Medium Cabernet |
EH |
| Light Crystal Blue |
MA |
| Oxford White |
YO |
| Deep Emerald Green |
PA |
| Twilight Blue |
MK |
| Ultra Blue |
MM |
1990 Mustang Articles
Check out other 1979-1993 Mustang Specs: 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1991, 1992, 1993
