1986 Car Models: The Complete List

The mid-1980s saw practical engineering meet unmistakable style, with manufacturers adjusting lineups for shifting markets and fuel-economy concerns. For collectors, researchers, or curious drivers, a year-by-year list helps trace how body shapes and engines evolved across regions.

There are 50 1986 Car Models, ranging from Alfa Romeo 33 to Volvo 240. For each model, data are organized by Market,Body style,Engine (L), and you’ll find below.

What markets and body styles are covered in this list?

The list groups entries by primary selling region (Europe, North America, Asia, etc.) and uses concise body-style labels like hatchback, sedan, coupe, wagon and convertible; the Engine (L) column shows displacement in liters to make cross-market comparisons straightforward.

How can I use the list to compare engine sizes between similar models?

Filter or scan by Body style to identify comparable models, then use the Engine (L) values to compare displacement; keep in mind differences in tuning, turbocharging, and emission equipment can affect performance even with similar engine sizes.

1986 Car Models

Images and Descriptions

Ford Taurus

Introduced as a 1986 model, the Taurus redefined Ford’s mid-size lineup in the US with aerodynamic styling and modern interiors. Typical buyers saw a 3.0L V6, front-wheel drive layout, and strong sales that made it an instant household name.

Mercury Sable

Sibling to the Taurus, the Sable debuted for 1986 offering similar aerodynamic design and comfort-focused trims. Sold mainly in the US, it commonly used a 3.0L V6 and emphasized upscale touches for Mercury buyers compared with Ford’s version.

Ford Mustang

The Fox-body Mustang remained a 1986 model with the popular 5.0L V8 available in GT trim. Sold primarily in the US, it combined classic pony-car styling with improved fuel injection and performance tweaks that kept enthusiasts interested.

Ford Escort

The compact Escort was a common 1986 model in the US and Europe, offered as a practical hatchback. Typical engines included a 1.9L four-cylinder, appealing to budget buyers seeking economy and simple mechanics.

Ford Tempo

The Tempo served as Ford’s compact 1986 sedan in the US market, with a typical 2.3L four-cylinder engine. It focused on affordability and interior space, with modest updates to trim and equipment for the model year.

Ford Crown Victoria

The Crown Victoria was a full-size 1986 model sold in the US, popular with fleet buyers and police agencies. Most examples used a 5.0L V8, known for durability and roomy rear seating in traditional body-on-frame construction.

Chevrolet Camaro

The Camaro continued as a 1986 model year staple in the US, often specified with a 5.0L V8 for performance variants. It retained sporty coupe lines and was a direct rival to Ford’s Mustang for enthusiasts.

Chevrolet Corvette

The 1986 Corvette featured the 5.7L V8 and was offered as a coupe or convertible in the US market. Notable for its performance-focused L98 engine in some trims and continued evolution of the C4 chassis and electronics.

Chevrolet Cavalier

The Cavalier was Chevrolet’s compact 1986 model sold in the US and Canada, commonly seen as a practical coupe or sedan. Typical engines included a 2.0L four-cylinder, emphasizing economy and low ownership costs.

Chevrolet Caprice

The Caprice remained Chevrolet’s full-size family sedan for 1986, widely used by fleets and families in the US. A 5.0L V8 was common, with spacious interiors and conservative styling appealing to traditional buyers.

Pontiac Firebird

The Firebird continued as Pontiac’s sporty 1986 offering, often fitted with a 5.0L V8 in performance trims. Sold mainly in North America, it paired aggressive styling with available performance packages and T-tops on some editions.

Pontiac Grand Am

The Grand Am was Pontiac’s mid-size 1986 coupe/sedan offering in the US, usually equipped with a 2.5L four-cylinder. It blended sporty styling cues with everyday comfort aimed at younger buyers seeking style on a budget.

Buick LeSabre

Buick’s LeSabre continued as a comfortable full-size 1986 sedan in North America, typically powered by the smooth 3.8L V6. It emphasized ride comfort, plush interiors, and conservative luxury for mainstream buyers.

Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera

The Cutlass Ciera remained a popular mid-size 1986 Oldsmobile in the US and Canada, commonly with a 2.8L V6. Known for comfortable ride and roomy interiors, it was a staple of 1980s family transportation.

Chrysler LeBaron

The LeBaron served as Chrysler’s compact/near-luxury 1986 model in the US, available as coupes and convertibles. Typical engines included a 2.2L four-cylinder, and it was notable for offering affordable open-top motoring.

Dodge Aries

The Aries continued as a K-car platform 1986 model in the US, favored for economy and simplicity. A 2.2L four-cylinder was typical, and it remained a common practical choice for budget-conscious families and fleets.

Plymouth Reliant

The Reliant, another K-car cousin, was sold as a 1986 model across the US, typically powered by a 2.2L four-cylinder. It offered basic transportation with a focus on affordability and easy maintenance.

Toyota Camry

Toyota’s Camry was available as a 1986 model in the US and Japan, commonly powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder. It built a reputation for reliability, roomy interiors, and efficient operation for family buyers.

Toyota Corolla

The Corolla remained a best-seller in 1986 across global markets, offered in sedan and hatchback forms. A 1.6L four-cylinder was a typical engine, prized for durability, low running costs, and broad parts availability.

Toyota Celica

The Celica was a sporty 1986 model sold worldwide, often with a 2.0L four-cylinder and sharp coupe styling. It appealed to buyers seeking handling and style without supercar costs, including popular GT trims.

Toyota MR2

The first-generation MR2 was sold as a 1986 model in multiple markets, notable for its mid-engine layout and lively 1.6L four-cylinder. It offered nimble handling and sports-car feel at an affordable price point.

Toyota Supra

The third-generation Supra was sold as a 1986 model with a typical 3.0L inline-six in many markets. Known for smooth power delivery and available turbocharging in select trims, it was Toyota’s performance flagship.

Honda Civic

The Civic continued as a practical 1986 model worldwide, usually with a 1.5L engine. Its hatchback layout, fuel efficiency, and durable engineering made it a go-to compact for commuters and first-time buyers.

Honda Accord

The Accord was a popular 1986 model in many markets, typically featuring a 2.0L four-cylinder. Known for a comfortable ride and strong reliability, it was a top choice for families seeking long-term value.

Honda Prelude

The Prelude coupe was offered as a 1986 model in varied markets with a 2.0L engine common. It delivered a sportier driving experience than the Accord, with sharper handling and distinctive styling.

Nissan Maxima

The Maxima was marketed as a 1986 model in North America, known for a higher-performance 3.0L V6 in many trims. It positioned itself as a sportier, more powerful alternative in the mid-size sedan segment.

Nissan Sentra

The Sentra served as Nissan’s compact 1986 model in many markets, typically with a 1.6L engine. Practical and economical, it appealed to buyers prioritizing fuel economy and low running costs.

Mazda RX-7

The RX-7 remained a 1986 sports-car staple, carrying a 1.3L rotary engine beloved for high-revving character. Sold across many markets, it was prized for light weight, responsive handling, and distinctive engine note.

Mazda 626

The 626 was Mazda’s mid-size 1986 offering in many markets, commonly with a 2.0L four-cylinder. It balanced comfort and handling and was often chosen by buyers seeking reliable family transport with driving interest.

Mitsubishi Galant

The Galant served as Mitsubishi’s mid-size 1986 model in many markets, typically with a 2.0L engine. It was a practical family car with conservative styling and a focus on value.

Mitsubishi Lancer

The Lancer remained a compact 1986 model worldwide, usually fitted with a 1.6L four-cylinder. Known for dependable mechanics and straightforward packaging, it appealed to economy-minded buyers.

Subaru XT

The Subaru XT (also Alcyone) was a wedge-styled coupe sold as a 1986 model in select markets, typically with a 1.8L engine. It offered aerodynamic styling and a focus on packaging and driver engagement.

BMW 3 Series (E30)

The E30 3 Series was a very popular 1986 model globally, typically with a 2.0L inline-four or larger six-cylinder options. Renowned for balanced handling, it became a benchmark compact executive car for enthusiasts.

BMW 5 Series (E28/E34 era)

BMW’s mid-size 5 Series was offered as a 1986 model with various engines; a 2.8L inline-six was a common, well-regarded choice. It combined comfort, performance, and executive presence in many markets.

Mercedes-Benz 190E

The 190E was Mercedes’ compact executive 1986 model, typically sold with a 2.3L four-cylinder. It offered solid build quality, safety features, and a premium badge in a smaller package than traditional MB sedans.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W124)

The W124 entered broader markets as Mercedes’ 1986 mid-size model, often with a 2.6L inline-six. Known for engineering robustness, it set standards for durability, ride quality, and cabin refinement.

Volkswagen Golf Mk2

The Golf Mk2 was a common 1986 model in Europe, typically featuring a 1.8L engine. It built on the Golf legacy with increased space, improved safety, and a range of trims from basic to sporty GTI variants.

Volkswagen Jetta

The Jetta continued as a 1986 model, essentially a sedan version of the Golf Mk2 in many markets, commonly with a 1.8L engine. It appealed to buyers wanting a traditional trunk and compact practicality.

Volkswagen Transporter (T3)

The T3 Transporter/Vanagon was offered in 1986 in Europe and select markets, often with a 1.9L diesel or petrol engine. Popular for commercial and camper conversions, it was prized for utility and reliability.

Peugeot 205

The Peugeot 205 was a best-selling 1986 European hatchback, typically available with a lively 1.6L petrol engine. It won praise for engaging driving dynamics, practicality, and became an iconic model for the brand.

Renault 5

The Renault 5 was still sold as a 1986 hatchback in Europe, often with a 1.1L engine. Compact and city-friendly, it was known for clever packaging and economical running costs.

Fiat Uno

Fiat’s Uno was a common 1986 European small car, typically with a 1.1L engine. It offered roomy interior space for its class, practical ergonomics, and easy-to-maintain mechanics for urban drivers.

Lancia Delta

The Delta was sold as a 1986 model in Europe, often with a 1.6L engine and available in sportier trims. It later gained rally fame, but the road-going model offered comfortable family hatchback practicality.

Alfa Romeo 33

The Alfa Romeo 33 was available in 1986 as a compact, fun-to-drive hatchback, commonly with a 1.5L engine. It appealed to buyers seeking Italian styling and engaging handling in a small package.

Volvo 240

The Volvo 240 remained a stalwart 1986 model worldwide, commonly fitted with a 2.3L four-cylinder. Celebrated for safety, durability, and roomy interiors, many examples continued to serve as family cars or workhorses.

Toyota Hilux

The Hilux pickup was sold as a 1986 model across many markets, commonly with a rugged 2.2L engine. Valued for toughness and simple mechanics, it was a go-to light commercial vehicle around the globe.

Nissan Hardbody (D21)

Introduced in the mid-1980s and sold as a 1986 model in many markets, the Nissan Hardbody pickup featured a 2.4L engine in common trims. Praised for durability and load capacity in its class.

Ford F-150

The F-150 remained America’s staple full-size pickup in 1986, typically offered with a 5.0L V8 among other engines. It was widely used for work and personal transport with a reputation for toughness and versatility.

GMC/Chevrolet C/K Series

Chevrolet and GMC twin-line pickups continued as 1986 models in North America, commonly equipped with 5.0L V8s. These trucks served commercial and private buyers with various bed and cab configurations.

Mini Clubman/Cooper

The classic Mini variants, including Clubman and Cooper derivatives, were still sold in 1986 in some markets, often with a 1.3L engine. Known for tiny footprint, nimble handling, and iconic styling, they remained city favorites.

Car Models in Other Years