88 LX 5.0L engine swap with a 1980-86 body?? Possible?? Help!!

88 5ohh · 03-24-2003

Im the same guy that wanted to know if 4cyl body parts were interchangable with my 5ohh.
I now have a bigger problem.
After taking my car to several very knowledagble body men, they all suggested i just drive my car, and dont attempt to put to much money into it because of the rust problem, and the HORRIBLE paint job some ***** decided to bless me with. To completly restore my body/paint, it would be about $2800 just for labor. You now have an idea of how bad it is.

Anyway... To my question, please help!! All opinions will be greatly appreciated.
The older style mustang bodies, pretty much 1980-1986... Is it possible to take everything out of my '88 LX Hatchback, and swap it into the older style body????? Granted, everything is possible with enough money, and knowledge. But i have a limited budget, and I don't have 10 years mechanical experience either.
Any thoughts would help me out alot... Thanks any and Everyone.

Twister · 03-24-2003

yes, you can, but there is alot of work. I prefeer the looks of the 85-86, and would leave the body stock. the biggest issue ill be the labor and electronics, it might be easier and cheaper to find a nice 86

mustang87will · 07-08-2008

I would suggest to keep it old school and it will keep the cost down. Go with 4 brl carb, elec.fuel pump, mechanical throttle linkage. No computer, No $$$.