The Complete List of 1987 Car Models

Classic car reference lists are handy whether you’re researching a restoration, comparing period specs, or just browsing automotive history. 1987 was a transitional year for many manufacturers, with compact imports, sporty coupes, and economical city cars appearing side by side at dealerships and in enthusiast magazines.

There are 96 1987 Car Models, ranging from Acura Integra to Yugo GV. Each entry includes concise specifications so you can compare at a glance: Body style,Engine (L / hp),Markets. The selection shows the full spectrum from mainstream to niche models, and you’ll find below the organized list for easy scanning and research.

What criteria determine which cars are listed as 1987 models?

The list includes passenger cars marketed as 1987 model-year vehicles in major markets; that means production or official model-year designation in 1987, excluding prototype-only cars and one-offs, while noting regional availability where applicable.

How can I make the most of the Body style, Engine (L / hp), Markets columns?

Use Body style to filter vehicle type, Engine (L / hp) to compare performance and displacement quickly, and Markets to identify where each model was sold or homologated—handy for sourcing parts or understanding regional variations.

1987 Car Models

Images and Descriptions

Ford Mustang

The 1987 model featured a major “aero” facelift, a significant update for the Fox Body platform. The 5.0L V8 received a power boost to 225 hp, cementing its status as a top performance bargain and a future collectible.

Buick Grand National

1987 was the legendary final year for the menacing, turbocharged Grand National. The ultimate GNX version, with 276 hp, became an instant icon, known for being one of the fastest production cars of its time, even outperforming many supercars.

Ferrari F40

Launched to celebrate Ferrari’s 40th anniversary, the F40 was a raw, twin-turbocharged supercar and the last model personally approved by Enzo Ferrari. Its minimalist design and staggering performance make it one of the most desirable cars ever made.

Porsche 911 Carrera

A major milestone for 1987 was the introduction of the G50 five-speed manual transmission, replacing the older 915 unit. This makes the 1987-1989 models highly sought-after by enthusiasts for their improved shift feel and durability.

Chevrolet Corvette

The C4 Corvette received roller valve lifters for its L98 V8 engine in 1987, boosting horsepower to 240. The Z52 performance handling package became available, combining elements from the previous Z51 and softer base suspension.

Jeep Wrangler

Replacing the long-running CJ, the 1987 Wrangler (YJ) was an all-new model featuring a wider track, lower stance, and controversial square headlights. It was designed to offer better on-road comfort while retaining its legendary off-road capability.

BMW M3

The legendary E30 M3 debuted in the US for the 1987 model year, a year after its European launch. Built as a homologation special for touring car racing, its high-revving four-cylinder engine and balanced chassis created a motorsports icon.

Mazda RX-7

The big news for 1987 was the introduction of the Turbo II model. Its turbocharged 13B rotary engine produced a potent 182 horsepower, transforming the second-generation (FC) RX-7 into a serious competitor for the Porsche 944 Turbo.

Toyota Supra

The third-generation (A70) Supra was in its second year, establishing itself as a standalone model separate from the Celica. The naturally aspirated 3.0L inline-six provided smooth power, and its GT styling was a hallmark of 1980s Japanese design.

Lamborghini Countach

The 1987 Countach 5000 QV (Quattrovalvole) featured a new 5.2L V12 engine with four valves per cylinder. This version is considered by many to be the ultimate Countach, blending outrageous style with the model’s most powerful engine.

Pontiac Fiero GT

The 1987 Fiero GT retained its sleek, fastback body style introduced in 1986. While awaiting a major suspension redesign for 1988, the V6-powered GT remained a popular and stylish mid-engine American sports car.

Ford Taurus

After its revolutionary debut in 1986, the 1987 Taurus continued its sales dominance with minimal changes. Its aerodynamic “jellybean” design influenced the entire auto industry and proved that a family sedan could be both functional and stylish.

Acura Legend

In its second year, the Acura Legend received a new, larger 2.7L V6 engine, boosting performance. A new coupe model also debuted, adding a stylish two-door option to Honda’s successful luxury brand lineup.

Honda CRX Si

The final year for the first-generation CRX, the lightweight Si model was a fan favorite. Known for its incredible fuel economy and go-kart-like handling, it set the standard for the “pocket rocket” category and is now a sought-after classic.

Volkswagen Golf GTI 16V

The 16-valve version of the Mk2 GTI engine finally arrived in the US market for 1987. This more powerful engine significantly improved performance, helping the GTI reclaim its throne as the king of the hot hatchbacks.

Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z

For 1987, the top-tier IROC-Z could be optioned with the 5.7L L98 V8 from the Corvette, though only with an automatic transmission. This made it one of the most powerful and best-handling Camaros of the decade.

Ford Sierra RS Cosworth

While the iconic three-door hatchback ended production, the 1987 model year saw the introduction of the four-door Sierra Sapphire RS Cosworth. This “executive express” offered the same blistering turbocharged performance in a more subdued, practical package.

Cadillac Allanté

A new ultra-luxury convertible for 1987, the Allanté featured a unique production process where bodies were designed and built by Pininfarina in Italy and then flown to Detroit for final assembly. It was a bold but costly experiment for Cadillac.

Toyota MR2

The first-generation (AW11) MR2 continued to win praise for its mid-engine balance and sharp handling. For 1987, T-tops became a standard feature, adding an open-air experience to this affordable and reliable two-seat sports car.

Nissan 300ZX

The Z31 generation 300ZX received a visual refresh for 1987 with smoother bodywork and updated tail lights. The Turbo model, with its potent V6, remained a strong competitor in the 1980s Japanese sports car scene.

Volvo 240

The indestructible Volvo 240 wagon was a safety icon and suburban workhorse. For 1987, it continued with minimal changes, offering cavernous cargo space, legendary durability, and a reputation for being one of the safest cars on the road.

Mercedes-Benz 300E

The W124 chassis 300E was a benchmark for midsize luxury sedans, praised for its bank-vault build quality and advanced engineering. Its smooth inline-six engine and multilink rear suspension provided a superb blend of comfort and handling.

Peugeot 205 GTI

For 1987, the acclaimed 205 GTI became even better with the introduction of a 1.9-liter engine option. This larger engine provided more torque and power, solidifying the car’s reputation as one of the greatest hot hatchbacks ever made.

Saab 900 Turbo

The 1987 model year saw the full-scale production of the now-iconic 900 Turbo Convertible. This stylish and practical four-seat droptop combined Saab’s quirky design, turbocharged performance, and all-weather capability.

Chrysler LeBaron

A brand-new “J-body” LeBaron coupe and convertible debuted for 1987. With sleek, modern styling, hidden headlights, and an available turbo engine, it was a massive success and became one of the defining American cars of the late 80s.

Dodge Daytona Shelby Z

The top-performing 1987 Daytona was the Shelby Z, featuring the new Turbo II engine with an intercooler. This potent front-wheel-drive coupe was a showcase for Chrysler’s performance partnership with Carroll Shelby.

Honda Prelude Si

This was the final year for the second-generation Prelude. The Si model, with its DOHC 2.0L engine and pop-up headlights, was a stylish and technologically advanced coupe, setting the stage for the revolutionary four-wheel-steering model to come.

Audi 80

The all-new B3 generation Audi 80 launched in Europe, featuring a fully galvanized body to prevent rust and incredibly aerodynamic styling. Its smooth, rounded design was a significant departure from the boxy shapes of the era.

Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe

The Thunderbird received a major aerodynamic redesign for 1987. The Turbo Coupe was the top performance model, now featuring an intercooler that boosted its turbocharged four-cylinder engine to a potent 190 horsepower, and it won Motor Trend’s Car of the Year.

Pontiac Firebird Trans Am GTA

The GTA (Gran Turismo Americano) was a new premium model for 1987. It came standard with the 5.7L TPI V8 engine, sophisticated suspension, and distinctive gold cross-lace wheels, making it the ultimate third-generation Firebird.

Mitsubishi Starion ESI-R

The 1987 Starion featured a widebody design across the lineup, previously reserved for specific models. The ESI-R (and its Chrysler Conquest TSi twin) was a potent rear-wheel-drive turbocharged sports car, known for its aggressive fender flares.

Alfa Romeo Milano

Sold as the Alfa Romeo 75 in Europe, the Milano was introduced to the US market for 1987. This rear-wheel-drive sports sedan was known for its fantastic Busso V6 engine, near-perfect weight distribution, and quirky Italian character.

Jaguar XJ6

The all-new XJ40 platform finally arrived, replacing the long-running Series III. The 1987 XJ6 featured more modern, angular styling and a new AJ6 inline-six engine, though it was also known for its complex and sometimes troublesome electronics.

Subaru XT

A quirky, wedge-shaped coupe, the Subaru XT stood out with its digital dashboard, aircraft-inspired steering wheel, and available full-time 4WD. For 1987, a six-cylinder XT6 model was introduced in Japan, arriving in the US the following year.

Toyota Corolla GT-S

Known affectionately as the AE86, this was the final year for the rear-wheel-drive Corolla. Its lightweight chassis, rev-happy 4A-GE engine, and RWD layout made it a favorite for grassroots racing and the eventual icon of drifting culture.

Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS

1987 marked the final year for the rear-wheel-drive G-body Monte Carlo SS. A new “Aerocoupe” model, with a sloped rear window for NASCAR homologation, was produced in limited numbers and is now highly collectible.

Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme

Like its GM siblings, 1987 was the last call for the classic rear-wheel-drive G-body Cutlass Supreme. Its traditional body-on-frame construction and V8 power made it one of the last true old-school American mid-size cars.

Renault 5 GT Turbo

A fierce rival to the Peugeot 205 GTI, the R5 GT Turbo was a tiny, lightweight hatchback with serious turbocharged punch. Its aggressive styling and notorious turbo lag gave it a wild character that defined the 80s hot hatch era.

Porsche 944

For 1987, the base 944 featured an increased horsepower rating. The big news, however, was the introduction of the 944 S model, which used a new 16-valve cylinder head to produce a healthy 187 horsepower.

BMW 535is

The E28 generation 5-series was in its final years, and the 535is was the sportiest non-M model available in the US. It combined the powerful 3.4L inline-six with M-technic suspension, sport seats, and aggressive front and rear spoilers.

Chevrolet Beretta

The Beretta was an all-new front-wheel-drive coupe for 1987, built on the GM L-body platform. Its sleek, modern styling was a hit, and it was chosen to be the pace car for the 1987 Indianapolis 500.

Toyota Camry

An all-new, more rounded and aerodynamic second-generation Camry debuted for 1987. This model was crucial in establishing Toyota’s reputation for quality and reliability, laying the groundwork for its future sales domination in the sedan market.

Nissan Pathfinder

The Pathfinder was a brand-new two-door SUV for 1987, based on Nissan’s Hardbody truck platform. It competed directly with the Toyota 4Runner and Jeep Cherokee, offering a V6 engine and a rugged, off-road-ready design.

Honda Accord

The third-generation Accord, known for its pop-up headlights and low cowl, continued to be a top seller. Its double-wishbone suspension at all four corners was unusually sophisticated for a family car, providing excellent ride and handling.

Dodge Shadow

Introduced as a new compact for 1987, the Dodge Shadow (and its Plymouth Sundance twin) replaced the aging Omni/Horizon. Available as a three or five-door hatchback, it offered modern styling and an optional turbocharged engine.

Ferrari Testarossa

An icon of 1980s excess, the 1987 Testarossa was largely unchanged from its 1984 debut. Its wide stance, massive side strakes, and flat-12 engine made it the definitive supercar poster car for an entire generation.

Lincoln Town Car

The epitome of traditional American luxury, the 1987 Town Car continued to offer plush, body-on-frame comfort. It remained a favorite for limousine services and private buyers seeking a classic, spacious V8-powered sedan.

Mercedes-Benz 560SL

The R107 generation SL reached its zenith with the 560SL, introduced in 1986. For 1987, this powerful and luxurious roadster continued as the flagship convertible, beloved for its timeless style and robust V8 engine.

Volvo 740 Turbo

The 740 Turbo Wagon was the ultimate “sleeper.” It combined the practicality and safety of a massive Volvo station wagon with a turbocharged engine that gave it surprising performance, embarrassing many sports sedans of the era.

Porsche 928 S4

The 928 received a major update for 1987, becoming the S4. It featured a new, more powerful 32-valve 5.0L V8 engine and smoother, more aerodynamic front and rear bumpers, modernizing the flagship GT car’s appearance.

Acura Integra

Part of Acura’s inaugural lineup, the 1987 Integra offered a sporty, fun-to-drive experience in a practical hatchback or sedan body. Its high-revving DOHC 16-valve engine was a standout feature in the compact segment.

Lancia Delta HF 4WD

This was the car that started a rally dynasty. The Delta HF 4WD was introduced in 1987, featuring a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. It would soon evolve into the legendary, box-flared Integrale, dominating the World Rally Championship.

Nissan Sentra

The B12 generation Sentra was available in a wide variety of body styles, including a unique wagon and a sporty coupe. It was a durable, economical, and popular choice in the competitive 1980s compact car market.

Ford Festiva

A new entry-level subcompact for Ford, the 1987 Festiva was designed by Mazda and built by Kia in South Korea. It offered basic transportation with excellent fuel economy and a surprisingly roomy interior for its tiny size.

Mazda 323 GTX

A rare and exciting homologation special, the 323 GTX was a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive hot hatchback. It was built to compete in rallying and offered impressive performance in a discreet, everyday package for the lucky few who bought one.

Citroën AX

Launched in late 1986, the AX was in its first full year for 1987. This lightweight and incredibly aerodynamic supermini was designed for maximum fuel efficiency, achieving remarkable economy with its small petrol and diesel engines.

Subaru Justy

A notable feature of the diminutive Subaru Justy was the available ECVT (continuously variable transmission), a rarity for the time. It also offered on-demand four-wheel drive, a unique feature in the subcompact class.

Isuzu Trooper II

For 1987, a new, more powerful 2.6L four-cylinder engine became available for the Trooper. This rugged, no-frills SUV was praised for its off-road capability and spacious, utilitarian interior, competing against Japanese and American rivals.

Chevrolet Celebrity Eurosport VR

A rare, one-year-only performance model, the Eurosport VR was a factory-modified Celebrity. Available in bold colors, it featured aggressive ground effects, a sport-tuned suspension, and a higher-output V6, but very few were produced.

Peugeot 405

The Peugeot 405 was launched in 1987 and quickly won the European Car of the Year award for 1988. Praised for its superb Pininfarina styling, excellent ride, and sharp handling, it became a massive success for the French automaker.

BMW M5

1987 was the final production year for the hand-built E28 M5 in North America. With the heart of an M1 supercar and a discreet sedan body, it created the super-sedan template and is now a highly valuable and sought-after classic.

Honda Civic

This was the last year for the third-generation “Wonder Civic.” Its sharp, angular styling and efficient packaging were still competitive. The stage was set for an all-new, more sophisticated model with double-wishbone suspension for 1988.

Toyota Van

Known as the TownAce or MasterAce in Japan, this mid-engine van had a unique “one-box” design. For 1987, it continued to offer huge interior space and available 4WD, making it a quirky but capable alternative to American minivans.

Dodge Ram 50

A captive import manufactured by Mitsubishi (as the Mighty Max), the Ram 50 was a popular compact pickup truck. For 1987, a full redesign brought more modern styling and a slightly larger cabin, keeping it competitive in a crowded segment.

Ford Escort

The North American Escort received a minor facelift for 1987, with smoother front-end styling and revised tail lights. It remained one of America’s best-selling cars, offering affordable and economical transportation for the masses.

Merkur XR4Ti

Sold through Lincoln-Mercury dealers, the Merkur XR4Ti was a re-badged Ford Sierra from Europe. This rear-wheel-drive, turbocharged sport coupe was known for its excellent handling and unique bi-plane rear spoiler.

Sterling 825

A new brand for 1987, Sterling was a collaboration between Rover Group and Honda. The 825 was essentially a re-badged Rover 800-series/Honda Legend, aiming to offer British luxury with Japanese reliability, though it had a troubled history.

Hyundai Excel

After its shockingly successful US debut in 1986, the 1987 Excel continued to sell in huge numbers thanks to its rock-bottom price. It established Hyundai as a major player in the entry-level market, despite early quality concerns.

Yugo GV

The Yugo continued its run as the cheapest new car in America. The 1987 models saw minor improvements in an attempt to address quality issues, but the car remained a symbol of budget motoring with a notorious reputation.

Dodge Omni

The long-running Omni hatchback was still in production for 1987. A special, final-run Shelby GLH-S model was produced in 1986, but the standard Omni continued as a basic, affordable compact car, soldiering on until 1990.

Chevrolet Sprint

A rebadged Suzuki Cultus, the Chevy Sprint was known for its tiny 3-cylinder engine and incredible fuel economy. For 1987, a turbocharged version was available, turning the little econobox into a surprisingly quick and fun-to-drive car.

Plymouth Voyager

The minivan that started it all, the 1987 Voyager received a major update with the introduction of the long-wheelbase “Grand Voyager” model. This new version offered significantly more cargo and passenger space, increasing its family-hauling appeal.

Audi 5000

The 1987 Audi 5000 continued to struggle with the fallout from the “unintended acceleration” controversy. Despite being a technologically advanced and well-engineered car, its reputation in the US market was severely damaged.

Maserati Biturbo

The 1987 Biturbo was an ambitious attempt to bring Maserati to a wider audience. Its twin-turbocharged V6 offered impressive performance, but the car was plagued by complex mechanics and reliability issues that tarnished its image.

Volkswagen Scirocco 16V

Sharing its new, more powerful 16-valve engine with the GTI, the 1987 Scirocco 16V received a much-needed performance boost. Its sleek, wedge-shaped Giugiaro styling still looked fresh, keeping it a desirable sport coupe.

Mitsubishi Galant

The front-wheel-drive Galant was in its final year before a major redesign. A notable Sigma luxury version was introduced for 1987, featuring advanced electronics like a digital dashboard and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.

Toyota Cressida

Often called a “four-door Supra,” the rear-wheel-drive Cressida shared its smooth inline-six engine with Toyota’s sports car. For 1987, it continued to be a comfortable and reliable premium sedan with a subtle, sporty character.

Nissan Stanza Wagon

A quirky and highly practical vehicle, the Stanza “Wagon” (called the Prairie in other markets) was a precursor to modern minivans. Its lack of a B-pillar and sliding rear doors made for an incredibly spacious and accessible interior.

Subaru GL

The rugged Subaru GL wagon was a favorite in snowy climates thanks to its dependable “on-demand” four-wheel-drive system. For 1987, an optional full-time 4WD system became available, enhancing its all-weather capability.

Plymouth Reliant

The “K-Car” that saved Chrysler, the 1987 Reliant was still a strong seller. While technologically dated, it represented dependable, no-frills transportation and was a common sight on American roads throughout the decade.

Ford LTD Crown Victoria

A traditional, body-on-frame V8-powered sedan, the 1987 “box body” Crown Victoria was a favorite of police departments and taxi fleets. It offered immense interior space and a comfortable, isolated ride.

Dodge Diplomat

Like its Ford rival, the 1987 Diplomat was a rugged, rear-wheel-drive M-body sedan that was a fleet favorite. Production continued with minimal changes, serving as one of the last links to old-school American car design.

Cadillac Brougham

Renamed from “Fleetwood Brougham” to just “Brougham” to avoid confusion with the new FWD Fleetwood, this was Cadillac’s largest and most traditional car. It offered classic V8 power and acres of chrome and velour.

Chevrolet Caprice Classic

The “box Chevy” Caprice was another stalwart of traditional American sedans. The 1987 model featured new composite headlights, giving it a slightly more modern look while retaining its body-on-frame construction and V8 power.

Buick Electra

The front-wheel-drive Electra was a comfortable and modern full-size sedan from Buick. The sporty T-Type model offered a firmer suspension and blackout trim for a more European-inspired driving experience.

Chrysler Fifth Avenue

Essentially a more luxurious version of the Dodge Diplomat, the Fifth Avenue was Chrysler’s flagship rear-wheel-drive sedan. Its signature padded vinyl roof and plush interior were hallmarks of 1980s American luxury.

Mazda B2200

The Mazda B-Series was redesigned in 1986, and the 1987 model continued with the new, more modern styling. The B2200 featured a larger 2.2L engine, offering more torque for hauling and everyday driving than its predecessor.

Nissan Hardbody Truck

Known for its aggressive, muscular styling, the “Hardbody” was one of the most distinctive compact trucks of the era. The 1987 models continued to be popular for their durability and available V6 engine option.

Toyota Truck

Legendary for its indestructibility, the 1987 Toyota pickup was a dominant force in the compact truck market. The fuel-injected 22R-E engine is renowned for its reliability, and 4×4 models are highly sought-after off-road platforms.

Ford Ranger

Ford’s popular compact pickup, the Ranger, offered an optional 2.9L Cologne V6 engine. The SuperCab model provided extra space behind the front seats, making it a more practical choice for many buyers.

Chevrolet S-10

The S-10 was a top-selling compact truck, competing directly with the Ford Ranger. For 1987, it offered a range of engines, including an available 2.8L V6, and body styles like the extended cab and rugged Blazer SUV variant.

GMC S-15

A twin to the Chevy S-10, the GMC S-15 offered an exclusive and powerful 4.3L V6 engine option not available in its Chevrolet counterpart. This made the S-15 one of the quickest compact trucks of the time.

Volkswagen Vanagon

The rear-engine T3 Vanagon continued with its “wasserboxer” water-cooled engine. The highly desirable Syncro model featured a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system, giving it impressive off-road and all-weather capability.

Saab 9000 Turbo

A larger, more modern car than the classic 900, the Saab 9000 was a collaboration with Fiat/Lancia. The Turbo model offered impressive “executive express” performance in a practical and spacious front-wheel-drive liftback body.

Volvo 760

The flagship 760 series received a major update in 1987 with the introduction of a sophisticated multi-link independent rear suspension. This significantly improved the ride and handling of Volvo’s luxury sedan and wagon.

Renault Medallion

A short-lived model, the Medallion was a rebadged Renault 21 sold in the US by AMC-Jeep dealers. When Chrysler bought AMC in 1987, the car was rebranded as the Eagle Medallion for the following year.

Car Models in Other Years