When the last
Ford F-100 rolled off the line after the 1983 model year, the
7th-generation F-150 officially became the smallest truck in
Ford’s F-Series lineup. But make no mistake—this half-ton was no lightweight. Equipped with a 5.0-liter electronically fuel-injected Windsor V8 and rated to tow up to 7,400 pounds, this truck was all muscle wrapped in chrome and cloth.
Offered by
Vanguard Motor Sales in Plymouth, Michigan, this pristine 1986 Ford F-150 XLT Lariat shows just 28,000 original miles and looks every bit as good as it did the day it left the showroom. At $49,900, it’s one of the cleanest, most original F-150s we’ve featured—and an absolute gem inside and out.
7th-Generation Ford F-150
The 7th-generation F-Series (1980–1986) marked a turning point for Ford trucks, both mechanically and aesthetically. The redesign brought a new chassis, a boxier body, and improved aerodynamics—all aimed at better efficiency and road manners.
During this era, Ford offered a staggering 13 different engines, ranging from inline-sixes and V6s to ten V8 options. Notable among them were the 6.9-liter
International Harvester diesel (Ford’s first-ever diesel option), the high-output 5.8-liter V8, and the 5.0-liter EFI Windsor V8—a forerunner of the modern electronically controlled engines we see today.
The F-100 was phased out during this generation as the F-150 and compact Ford Ranger gained traction. Buyers could choose from several trims, but the XLT Lariat was the range-topper, featuring a chrome grille, bodyside moldings, “XLT” and “Lariat” badging, plush cloth seats, wood trim, and a soft-wrapped steering wheel.
Optional upgrades included automatic overdrive transmissions for improved fuel economy and independent front suspension across both 4×2 and 4×4 variants, greatly enhancing comfort and control.
Today, the 7th-generation F-Series is one of the hottest eras in the classic truck market—especially well-preserved, low-mileage examples like this one.
The Specs & Condition
How this 1986 F-150 managed to survive nearly four decades with only 28,000 miles is a mystery, but we’re not complaining. Finished in Bright Canyon Red with a color-keyed Canyon Red interior, it’s an exceptional time capsule. Every surface—from the dash and headliner to the vinyl bench and bed—is impressively clean.
Power comes from Ford’s proven 302-cu.-in. Windsor V8, delivering a perfect balance of power, reliability, and economy thanks to multi-port electronic fuel injection.
Highlights
- 5.0-liter Windsor small-block V8 (302 cu.-in.)
- Multi-port electronic fuel injection (EFI)
- 4-speed automatic transmission
- 28,043 original miles
- 15-inch wheels with BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires
- Knitted vinyl bench seat
- Chrome front grille and bumpers
- Chrome rear step bumper
- Handling Package
- Headliner & Insulation Package
- Digital clock
- AM/FM cassette stereo