1988 Ford Mustang GT Convertible

This Cabernet Red Mustang GT convertible combines white leather and a replacement white soft top with a five-speed manual and a replacement 302ci V8. Work reported in 2025 included the long block, transmission overhaul, clutch, water pump, alternator and several cabin components. A BBK intake, Flowmaster exhaust, 3.55:1 rear gearing and updated audio distinguish its installed configuration. Approximately 80,000 miles were shown in the 2025 and 2026 auctions. The historical Carfax disclosed minor left-rear damage in 2019, and the seller confirmed that the car did not have air conditioning. A later dealer page lists 79,960 miles. [1–3]

Cabernet Red paint, a white convertible top and white leather seating give this 1988 Ford Mustang GT an unmistakable late-1980s appearance. The GT body treatment, fog lamps and 15-inch alloy wheels retain the familiar Fox-body silhouette, while documented mechanical work and updated audio distinguish this particular example. Its five-speed manual transmission makes it an engaging open-top specification, and both public auctions recorded approximately 80,000 miles on the five-digit odometer.

The November 2025 listing described installation of a replacement 302ci long block, together with a transmission rebuild and replacement clutch. A BBK intake and Flowmaster exhaust were documented, and the later offering identified tubular shorty headers. Power reaches the rear wheels through a Traction-Lok differential with 3.55:1 gearing. Because the installed engine is a replacement and its internal specification has not been independently established, a generic factory horsepower figure should not be presented as this car’s verified output.

The reported refurbishment extended to the water pump, alternator and refinishing of the engine bay. A replacement soft top, seat upholstery, center console, seatbelts and door strikers were also described. The cabin includes manual windows and a Pioneer touchscreen paired with a Kenwood amplifier and Kicker speakers. Seller comments specifically confirmed the absence of air conditioning, a detail that should remain clear in any prospective sales presentation.

The car’s history includes long-term New York registration before moving to North Carolina, followed by auctions in November 2025 and May 2026. The later seller offered it in Georgia with a North Carolina title and described a recently repainted front bumper cover. A historical Carfax reported minor damage at the left rear in 2019; neither the clean title description nor subsequent refurbishment erases that disclosure. Dings and other cosmetic blemishes were also noted.

This Mustang is best presented as a refreshed and modified GT convertible with a replacement-engine history, an appealing red-and-white color combination and a useful public sales trail. The later Ron Tirapelli Ford advertisement records 79,960 miles, while the auction figures were rounded to 80k. Current ownership, availability, odometer reading and service condition should be verified before active marketing. Documentation of the engine installation and transmission work would materially strengthen the vehicle file.

BaT recorded $17,250 on November 5, 2025, lot 218367, and a later $15,250 result on May 24, 2026, lot 244171. The later sale offered the car in Georgia with a clean North Carolina title. A subsequent exact-VIN Ron Tirapelli Ford inventory page lists 79,960 miles and available status as reviewed October 21, 2026. Availability can change; the dealer figure is consistent with rounded 80k reporting and is not, by itself, evidence of rollback. [1–3]

Known timeline

1988–2024 — The public listing described roughly three decades of New York history before North Carolina registration in 2024. A complete chain of owners was not established.

2019 — The historical Carfax reported minor damage to the left rear. The reviewed public material did not establish the repair scope.

2024–2025 — The seller reported acquisition in 2024 and extensive 2025 mechanical and cabin work, including a replacement long block and rebuilt transmission.

November 5, 2025 — BaT lot 218367 recorded a $17,250 result with approximately 80,000 miles shown.

May 24, 2026 — BaT lot 244171 recorded $15,250, seller amotorsports and buyer Tconlin. It was offered in Georgia with a North Carolina title and about 80k shown.

Later dealer record, reviewed October 21, 2026 — Ron Tirapelli Ford listed the exact VIN, stock T11030, with 79,960 miles and available status. That is an advertised status, not a confirmed completed transaction.

Prepared from the cited historical records. Current availability, ownership, mileage, title status and condition require confirmation. Dated disclosures on page 3 remain part of this description.