5.0L (1979-1995) Mustang Technical discussions on 5.0 Liter Mustangs within. This does not include the 5.0 from the 2011 Mustang GT. That information is in the 2005-1011 section.

1981 5.0 Confusion

Old 11-25-2010, 04:42 PM
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Fluffi
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Default 1981 5.0 Confusion

So I'm interested in buying a Mustang, and need a little help. I found this gorgeous 5.0 (or so I think it is) 5-speed for sale near my house, and I want it. Only thing is, I ran the VIN code and it says that it is actually a 2.3... But the car has 5.0 badges and dual exhaust. I have yet to see what's under the hood or drive it. Could someone give me an example of what a 5.0 VIN should be? I want to make sure that it has the original engine and isn't a conversion.
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Old 11-25-2010, 04:47 PM
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Here's a pic to better determine what it is.

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Old 11-25-2010, 05:01 PM
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tohoopty
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if the vin says its a 4 cyl then thats what it used to be.but hey its cheaper on insurance
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Old 11-25-2010, 05:03 PM
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I just hope it's not still a 2.3 with 5.0 badges. Man, that would be lame.
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Old 11-25-2010, 05:23 PM
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tohoopty
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just look under the front of it and you will know if its got a v8 in it.and its also got a 5 lug conversion
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Old 11-25-2010, 06:18 PM
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that's not an 81, 85 or 86, take a pic of the gauge cluster, i doubt it's a conversion
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Old 11-25-2010, 06:21 PM
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those are five lug wheels too, aren't they?
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Old 11-26-2010, 09:47 AM
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Sorry, I know nothing about Mustangs, which is why I came here. I'm heading out now to further inspect it, the guy at the dealership is there, so I will be able to see what's hiding under the hood.
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Old 11-26-2010, 10:59 AM
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take pics of everything!!
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Old 11-28-2010, 08:58 AM
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projectresto83
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Well if it is an 81 it has alot of work done to it to make it a 85/86 look alike. It could very well be converted Mike. Notice the door moldings are missing? Save themselves some time and just do the little ones closest to the bumper covers.
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