The T-Top was popular for muscle and sports cars during the 80s. The third-generation Mustang, also known as the
Fox Body Mustang, was introduced in 1979, and it quickly became a popular car among enthusiasts. With the introduction of the Fox Body Mustang in 1979, there was not a t-top, convertible, or sunroof option yet option. In 1981, Ford introduced the T-Top option for the Mustang. This design was inspired by the Chevrolet Corvette, which had offered a T-Top option since 1968. The T-Top Mustang featured two removable glass panels that could be stored in the trunk. The T-Top design was a hit among Mustang fans, and it quickly became a popular option for the car.
The T-Top Mustang received a number of updates throughout its production run. In 1982, the car received a new grille design, and the GT model received a new hood scoop. In 1983, Ford introduced the Mustang convertible, which was based on the coupe model. In 1984, the car received a new dashboard design, and the GT model received a new front air dam. In 1986, Ford introduced a new fuel-injected 5.0-liter V8 engine, which increased the car's horsepower to 200.
In 1988, Ford discontinued the T-Top Mustang, while the convertible and sunroof-equipped Mustangs continued to be built. However, the T-Top Mustang remains a popular car among collectors and enthusiasts, and it is still seen on the roads today.
Since the T-top Mustang was a modified version of the original hardtop Mustang, some people are unaware of some interesting facts and specs. Below are some specs and facts specific to the T-top Mustang!
T-Top Option CostThe T-top was an option that was fairly expensive. In 1982 the option was $1,021.00 and rose to $1,798.00 by the end of the production. By contrast, the sunroof option was only $355.00 option. This made T-top equipped cars just a little less expensive than the range-topping convertible Mustangs!
Production Numbers & Models - The Ford Mustang and Mercury Capri were available as a t-top.
- Both the coupe and hatchback were available with the T-top option.
- On average, more t-top models were produced than convertible models.
- 1988 T-top Mustang production numbers are harder to trace. Some say they are leftover 1987 models, while other sources say that they are true 1988 models.
| Year Model | Capri Product Numbers | Mustang Production Numbers |
| 1981 | 7,054 | 18,583 |
| 1982 | 3,719 | 14,950 |
| 1983 | 2,108 | 12,681 |
| 1984 | 1,843 | 13,708 |
| 1985 | 1,342 | 13,827 |
| 1986 | 1,375 | 14,549 |
| 1987 | | 7,314 |
| 1988 | | 800 (est) |
| Total | 17,441 | 96,412 (est) |
These numbers are estimates. - Sessler, Peter C. Ford Mustang Red Book, 1964 1/2-2015: Specifications, Options, Production Numbers, Data Codes, and More. Motorbooks, 2015.
With the modification to the roof, there are many parts and options that are specific to the T-top Mustang.
- The obvious differences are the specific weatherstrip for the t-top, doors, and windows.
- There is also specialized headliners designed for the t-top equipped Mustangs.
- Hatchback T-top equipped cars had straps in the hatch area that were designed to secure the t-top panels when there were not installed onto the roof of the car. Over the years, these usually have become missing but they are something that is specific to the T-top Mustang hatchback.
- T-top Mustangs came with storage bags for the top panels for storage when they were not installed onto the roof.
