The 1986 Ford Taurus MT-5, a rare variant equipped with a manual transmission, is a fascinating find for automotive enthusiasts. This article explores the unique features of this model, its history, and why it remains a sought-after gem in junkyards today. The MT-5, offered from 1986 to 1988, stands out for its manual transmission in a market dominated by automatics.
The Uncommon Appeal of the 1986 Taurus MT-5
Junkyard discoveries often reveal intriguing automotive history. Among the most sought-after finds are vehicles with unusual features, high mileage, and manual transmissions in unexpected models. The 1986 Ford Taurus MT-5 embodies this rarity, making it a noteworthy junkyard treasure.
The MT-5 wasn’t the base model; it was positioned above the Taurus L, which came standard with a three-speed automatic. Priced at $10,276 in 1986 (approximately $24,415 in 2020 dollars), the MT-5 cost more than the automatic Taurus L. This premium was due to features like bucket seats, upgraded gauges, and a superior steering wheel.
A Manual Transmission in an Automatic World
By 1986, American drivers were accustomed to automatic transmissions being the more expensive option. Paying extra for a manual in a mid-size sedan with a modest engine seemed counterintuitive to many budget-conscious buyers. Consequently, MT-5s often languished on dealer lots. Despite the five-speed’s overdrive gear offering superior fuel economy compared to the automatic Taurus L, the declining gas prices at the time diminished this advantage.
Most first-generation Taurus buyers preferred the V6 engine due to the base 2.3-liter four-cylinder’s meager 88 horsepower, which felt underpowered in a car weighing around 2,759 pounds (sedan) or 2,957 pounds (wagon). Although Ford offered the MT-5 in both sedan and wagon body styles, the wagon version is exceptionally rare.
The HSC Engine: A Legacy in the 1986 Taurus
The 1986 Ford Taurus MT-5 featured the HSC (High Swirl Combustion) engine, a four-cylinder powerplant with a unique history. Initially developed for the Ford Tempo, the HSC was derived from the early 1960s “Thriftpower” 200 cubic inch straight-six engine. It represented Ford’s effort to modernize and improve fuel efficiency.
With the introduction of the performance-oriented Taurus SHO in 1989, the MT-5 was discontinued. The demand for manual transmissions shifted towards more powerful vehicles, leaving the MT-5 as a niche offering. The arrival of the SHO signaled a new era for the Taurus, focused on performance rather than fuel efficiency.
A Junkyard Survivor: The 1986 Taurus MT-5
This particular junkyard 1986 Ford Taurus MT-5 appears to be in relatively good condition, with minimal rust and a well-preserved interior. Despite its rarity, the Taurus MT-5 falls into the “rare but not valuable” category, explaining its presence in a junkyard.
The 1986 Ford Taurus MT-5 serves as a reminder of a time when manual transmissions were less common, and fuel efficiency was a significant selling point. Although overlooked by many during its production run, it remains a unique and interesting piece of automotive history for enthusiasts today. Its distinctive combination of features continues to make it a compelling discovery in automotive graveyards.
