For 1986, Ford fuel injected nearly all of its engines to afford greater efficiency and reliability, and to meet certain emissions standards across the board. The F150 was still America’s favorite pickup, and it would be the last year for what’s been called “the bull nose,” or the front end with recessed, sealed-beam headlights and grille work that leaned a little outwardly at the top. It was a popular style that was introduced for the 1980 model year, and Ford sold a lot of them. The top of the line were equipped with the XLT Lariat package, which blended creature comforts and conveniences with the utilitarian values F150s were well known for. Having just 27,885 miles, this F150 is a uniquely preserved step back in time. Finished in dark red inside and out, the XLT Lariat-equipped F150 features a short bed, single cab body, the fuel-injected 5.0L V-8 engine, a 4-speed overdrive automatic transmission, aluminum wheels with BF Goodrich tires, power windows, power locks, power steering, power brakes, an AM/FM/Cassette stereo system, air conditioning, a centrally mounted tachometer, cruise control and dual fuel tanks, among other amenities. Inside, passengers are coddled by a thickly padded bench seat with the rich, upgraded velour seat cover, which is sustained by the door panel inserts. The dashboard is decorated with burled-wood applique and black and bright trim, and, of course, everything is color matched. Outside and in, the brightwork, trim and lenses present exquisitely. To be sold with the original window sticker, bill of sale, Protect-O-Plate, loan contract, owner’s manual and books and warranty booklet, this 1986 F150 XLT Lariat shows in stupendous condition and would be very difficult to duplicate. For 1987, Ford would restyle the F150 with a flat nose design featuring more modern, flush-mounted halogen headlights and smoother features all around, a style that would sustain through 1991, with 1992 bringing about a bowed nose and even more aerodynamic styling. The formula would remain largely the same though, and the F150 would continue to dominate in sales year after year. Despite all that were sold, finding one in clean, original condition is a tall order.
