1985 Ford Mustang SVO – A Rare Turbocharged Icon in Dark Sage

In the mid-1980s, Ford engineers embarked on a bold mission to elevate the Mustang beyond its traditional muscle car roots. The result was the 1985 Mustang SVO (Special Vehicle Operations)—a performance machine that emphasized balance, innovation, and precision driving. Developed by Ford’s SVO division, this unique Mustang was equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a first for the model, aiming to rival European sports sedans of the time with a focus on power-to-weight ratio, advanced suspension, and modern amenities.

The 1985 model year represented the second full production cycle for the SVO, with subtle refinements that improved performance and drivability. These Mustangs were far more than a trim package; they were purpose-built performance cars with engineering pedigree—featuring an intercooled turbocharged 2.3L I-4 engine producing 205 horsepower, adjustable Koni shocks, four-wheel disc brakes, and aerodynamic bodywork including a distinctive dual-plane rear spoiler.

This specific 1985 Ford Mustang SVO stands out not only as a clean and exceptionally preserved example but also for its rarity and originality. Dressed in a factory-correct “4E” Dark Sage green paint—a hue so rare it was applied to only eight SVOs in 1985—this car has undergone a high-quality repaint in its original color. The paint presents beautifully over a solid body, with detailed finishes in the door jambs, trunk area, and underhood all maintaining the integrity of the car's factory look. The factory OE 16-inch wheels wear Goodyear Eagle tires dated 2015, completing the classic SVO stance.

Under the hood lies the original, matching-numbers 2.3L turbocharged EFI four-cylinder engine, mated to a T5 five-speed manual transmission. With only 51,952 actual miles on the odometer, the car remains true to its factory configuration—featuring its OE exhaust manifold, stock catalytic converter, OE-style replacement muffler, and full tailpipe. The suspension and steering components remain original and clean, with factory Ford stickers still visible on the struts and shocks, and the underside shows a level of preservation that's rare for a nearly 40-year-old vehicle. The 8.8-inch rear end and factory quad shocks ensure solid handling and power delivery.

Inside, the car is trimmed in its original “MA” code Charcoal articulated leather bucket seats—a comfortable and driver-focused environment that shows only minor signs of age. The interior features include a floor shifter, center console, Ford AM/FM cassette stereo, boost gauge, tilt steering column, and power accessories such as power windows and power locks. Additional details include a factory tachometer, intermittent wipers, a working rear defroster, and dual remote mirrors. Although the map light is inoperable, the cabin remains largely functional and true to its SVO heritage.

This Mustang SVO comes with a large folder of documentation, including the Marti Report and build sheet, further verifying its authenticity and unique build. According to the CarFax report, the vehicle has a clean accident history and passed through various states including New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Illinois before arriving in Texas. While a mileage inconsistency was noted in the CarFax due to clerical input, all evidence including the physical odometer reading and condition of the vehicle supports its low-mileage status.

In total, this Mustang SVO offers a rare glimpse into Ford’s high-performance experimentation during the 1980s—a car that dared to challenge convention with a four-cylinder powerplant and succeeded in building a loyal enthusiast following.

PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, is proud to share the history of exceptional vehicles like this 1985 Mustang SVO. With decades of expertise and a deep passion for classic and vintage cars, our team carefully curates and preserves automotive icons that define their era. Whether you're reliving the past or discovering it for the first time, trust PC Classic Cars to connect you with truly remarkable automobiles.

Are you looking to sell a classic Ford Mustang, especially an SVO, GT, or other special-edition model? PC Classic Cars actively buys rare and classic vehicles from across the country. Contact us today if you have a collector car you’re ready to pass on—we’re always on the hunt for iconic vehicles to add to our growing collection.