[Billy Nees]

Originally Posted by Rory McNeil

As mentioned by Alex, the 82 Mustang GT was stick only, as were all the 4 barrel carbed 83-85 5.0 Mustangs. (There were automatic 5.0 Mustangs and Capris available, at least in 84-85, but they used a throttle body injection, rather than carb.)Also, rather than fool around with the 7.5 rearend, the 8.8 is cheap & readily available, as they came in every 1986-93 5.0 Mustang. I regularily see Mustang 8.8s for sale in the $50.-100. price range, and the vast majority have Traction Lok, although a spool is preferable.

NHRA accepts the 82 with auto.
Upon further review, it probably would be less expensive in the long run to go with the 8.8 and be done with it. It still would fit in the budget.