With the turbocharged engine gone and the 1981 V-8 Ford Mustang only making 115 horsepower, Ford was in serious need of a performance upgrade, but they were able to answer the call in the form of the 1982 Ford Mustang GT.

The GT replaced the Cobra as the top sporty Mustang model, and it signified the return of the “5.0” V-8 engine. More than just an increase in displacement (up from 4.2-liters), the 5.0 featured a high-performance camshaft, two-barrel Holley carb, and double-roller timing chain.

The 5.0 now put 157 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque to the road via a four-speed manual transmission and 3.08:1 rear end. The Traction-Lok also rear axle reduced wheel-hop when pulling off the line.

The Mustang GT solidified the ideal look of the Mustang for years to come. The GT featured body-colored grille, forward-facing hood scoop, large rear spoiler, and mechanical options such as traction bars and power steering assist.

The rest of the Fox body Mustang engine lineup continued to include the 88-hp four-cylinder and 91-hp six-cylinder engine. Quizzically, Ford continued to offer the 4.2-liter V-8, which now made only 111 horsepower.

Trim options were now named L, GL, and GLX. Options for 1982 included some items carried over from previous years, including T-Tops, Recaro seats, rear window louvers, and the subdued “Carriage” roof, which was a landau top of sorts.

The California Highway Patrol (CHIPs) purchased 400 Special Service Mustangs. Don’t be fooled by the notchback body style—all 400 featured the 5.0-liter V-8. Today, these are among the most collectable Ford Mustangs of this vintage.