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The Ranger GT was available in 1987 and 1989.
Mid-year 1986 saw the introduction of the Ranger GT. Only available as a standard cab short bed, it had the 2.9 L Cologne V6 with either a 5-speed Toyo Kogyo manual transmission or an optional A4LD automatic transmission putting power to a Traction-Lok differential with a 3.73 gear ratio. Front and rear sway bars were installed, and 14×6 aluminum wheels with 215/70-14 Goodyear Eagle performance tires completed the package.
Inside, the truck was equipped with special bucket seats, full instrument cluster, an optional center console, tilt wheel, cruise control, power windows and locks, and a sliding rear window.
A long bed option was added in 1987, and a new ground effects package was introduced in 1988 that included a front bumper cover with Marchal fog lights.
1989, sadly was the last year for the GT option. It had the exact same ground effects kit as the 1988 as well as the same options list. There were rumors that for 1990, Ford was going to install the 3.0L SHO V-6. They even went as far as to build one and let a couple of magazines play with it. It never came to be though.
These vehicles were offered in Red, White or Blue.
Contrary to what some believe, they were available in a long bed.
Some pictures of a used Ranger GT:
Got an original Ford Ranger GT or other rare Ford Ranger? Email us photos and information about it at admin@therangerstation.com
About The Author
Jim Oaks is the founder of The Ranger Station, one of the longest-running Ford Ranger enthusiast communities on the web. He has spent over three decades owning, modifying, repairing, and driving Ford Rangers on the street, trail, and cross-country routes.
Since launching TheRangerStation.com in 1999, Jim has documented thousands of real-world Ranger builds, technical repairs, drivetrain swaps, suspension modifications, and off-road tests contributed by owners worldwide. His work has been referenced by enthusiasts, mechanics, and off-road builders looking for practical, experience-based information rather than theoretical advice.
Jim’s hands-on experience includes long-distance overland travel, trail use, drivetrain and axle upgrades, suspension tuning, and platform comparisons across multiple Ranger generations. The content published on The Ranger Station is grounded in first-hand experience and community-verified data, not marketing claims or generic specifications.