The 1987 Crown Vic represents a peak year for the Ford Panther platform, balancing bold police presence with refined personal ownership. Owners and enthusiasts often highlight 1987 as the model year when durability, styling updates, and V8 refinement converged in a single sedan.
This article explores the 1987 Crown Vic through specifications, model trims, ownership considerations, and practical guidance for buyers and restorers.
| Model Year | Trim | Engine | Drivetrain | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1987 | LSE | 5.0 L Windsor V8 | RWD 3-speed AOD | Thin pillar coupe, Rally wheels |
| 1987 | Base Sedan | 5.0 L Windsor V8 | RWD 3-speed AOD | Formal roof, standard cloth |
| 1987 | Base Wagon | 5.0 L Windsor V8 | RWD 3-speed AOD | Hill-climb roof, removable side panels removable side panels> |
| 1987 | Police Interceptor | 5.8 L Cleveland V8 (some 5.0) | RWD 3-speed AOD | Heavy-duty cooling, suspension, wiring |
1987 Crown Vic Styling Updates
By 1987, the Crown Vic adopted subtle but noticeable styling cues that set it apart from earlier Panther cars. The front fascia gained a more pronounced grille and revised headlight surrounds, while the rear featured new taillamps and a slimmer trunklid treatment.
Thin B-pillars on the coupe created a near-hardtop roofline look, and Rallye wheels became available, enhancing the car’s sporty appearance without compromising comfort.
1987 Crown Vic Performance and Handling
Engine and Power Output
The standard 5.0 L Windsor V8 delivered reliable mid-range torque ideal for patrol duties and steady highway cruising. Police versions often used the 5.8 L Cleveland V8 for extra low-end power.
Drivetrain and Suspension
RWD with the AOD automatic transmission provided smooth shifts and better weight distribution than earlier platforms. Heavy-duty police suspensions improved stability under emergency driving conditions.
1987 Crown Vic Ownership and Restoration
Interior and Materials
Interior appointments varied by trim, with LSE versions offering richer cloth, upgraded door panels, and available vinyl roofs. High-mileage examples may show dashboard fading, but replacement panels remain widely available.
Common Maintenance Points
Watch for rust around wheel wells and the rear quarter panels, and verify that the rear sway link bolts are tight. The 3-speed AOD transmission benefits from fluid changes every 30,000 miles in daily-driven cars.
Key Takeaways for the 1987 Crown Vic
- 1987 marks a mature design with refined styling and improved interior comfort.
- 5.0 L Windsor V8 with AOD transmission balances drivability and capability.
- Police packages offer robust 5.8 L Cleveland V8 options and heavy-duty components.
- Thin pillar coupe variants are particularly sought after by enthusiasts.
- Rust prevention and suspension checks are essential for long-term ownership.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is the 1987 Crown Vic a good first classic Ford project car?
Yes, parts are affordable and abundant, rust repairs are straightforward, and the mechanicals are well understood among hobbyists.
How does the 1987 model differ from earlier 1985–1986 Crown Vics?
1987 introduces updated lighting, thinner pillars on coupes, and improved interior materials, along with incremental underbody reinforcement.
What police specification options were available in 1987?
Police Interceptor packages included reinforced components, larger cooling systems, and optional 5.8 L Cleveland engines alongside standard 5.0 L units.
Are replacement doors and fenders easy to find for this model year?
Yes, aftermarket suppliers and salvage yards offer good coverage for 1987 panels, making restoration work more accessible.