The Ford Fairlane is an automobile model that was sold between the 1955 and 1970 model years by Ford in North America. Taking its name from the Dearborn, Michigan estate of Henry Ford , the Fairlane nameplate was used for seven different generations of vehicles. Through its production, the model line would be marketed in a wide variety of body styles, including two-door and four-door sedans, two-door and four-door hardtops, station wagons, and both traditional and retractable-hardtop convertibles.
132-754: Initially introduced as the flagship of the full-size Ford range, the Fairlane marked the introduction of the Crown Victoria and 500 nameplates, both later becoming stand-alone full-size model lines (the latter, as the Ford Five Hundred ). Following the introduction of the Ford Galaxie , the Fairlane 500 (and Fairlane) became Ford's base models, equivalent to the Chevrolet Bel Air and Biscayne respectively, until 1962, when it
264-482: A Mobilgas economy run , the Falcon got 32.5 mpg ‑US (7.2 L/100 km; 39.0 mpg ‑imp ). In 1963, even more models were available. Now a four-door Futura and a Deluxe wagon were available. Futura Convertible and Futura Sports Convertible models were also included in the 1963 range. Later, hardtops, and the new "Sprint" model were introduced. Halfway through the model year (February 1963),
396-750: A V8 engine was offered for nearly all generations. At the time of its 2012 model-year discontinuation, the Ford Crown Victoria was the final mass-produced sedan offered with a separate frame. During the first half of the 20th century, American automobiles were typically identified by manufacturer and model year (such as a 1952 Ford ). At the time, each manufacturer offered nearly the same range of body styles for each of their vehicle brands (e.g., Ford, Mercury, and Lincoln). To augment their brand lineups, automakers began to market their vehicle lines in multiple nameplates, distinguished by exterior and interior trim. The term "full-size" came into use in
528-415: A 195 horsepower (145 kW) version of the 289 with a two-barrel carburetor and hydraulic lifters was introduced. The two-speed Fordomatic continued as the automatic transmission choice for the 260 in 1964, while 289 V8s got the three-speed Cruise-O-Matic transmission option. All 1965 models featured 14-inch (360 mm) wheels as standard, in place of the earlier 13-inch (330 mm) wheels, and Fordomatic
660-721: A 65-hp flathead V8 engine for a $ 10 price premium over the standard Model B. Demand for the V8 was so strong that Ford struggled to keep up. After 1934, the four-cylinder engine was discontinued; the next four-cylinder Ford in North America was the Pinto in 1971. For the 1935 model year, the Ford lineup was powered exclusively by a V8 engine. Styling changes introduced the first integrated trunks on sedan models and suspension changes increased interior room. In 1936, further updates included
792-768: A V8 engine, the Police Interceptor Sedan was offered with two V6 engines (both more powerful than the previous V8); an optional twin-turbocharged V6 was shared with the Taurus SHO. In September 1908, the lineage of the full-sized Ford began as the Model T entered production. The successor to the Model N and Model S , the Model T would become the first Ford to use mass-production techniques. Produced in over 14 body styles, over 15 million were produced in 19 years of production. Although its predecessors introduced
924-431: A V8 in its full-sized cars (making it standard equipment from 1935 to 1940 and from 1973 to 2012). Originating from the Model T, each generation of the model line shared a common chassis construction layout. Body-on-frame construction (various designs) was combined with a front-engine, rear-wheel drive powertrain and a live rear axle ; the design is similar to many light trucks sold in North America. The sole exception
1056-523: A basis of the final Ford sedan delivery), and coupe utility pickups (serving as the basis of the Ford Ranchero ). Through the 1960s, Ford would produce three distinct generations of the Falcon; a final version of the Falcon served as the lowest-price version of the Ford Torino . For nearly two decades, the model architecture used by the Falcon was used by eleven Ford vehicle lines. Alongside
1188-602: A competitor to the Chevrolet Impala Super Sport. As a base model for fleets, for 1963, Ford introduced the Ford 300 , which was renamed the Custom for 1964. The three-model station wagon series remained unchanged from 1960 to 1962. For 1963, the base-trim Ranch Wagon was adopted by the Fairlane model range. For the 1965 model year, the full-sized Ford platform underwent a complete redesign. While sharing
1320-404: A displacement of 221 CID (3.6 L) and 145 hp (108 kW); a 260 CID (4.2 L) "Challenger" version with an advertised 164 hp (122 kW) was added at mid-year. The Sports Coupe option débuted mid-year and featured bucket seats and a small floor console. The trim level supplemented the Fairlane and Fairlane 500 trim levels (the 500 model had more decorative trim, such as
1452-711: A downsized Dodge Dart in 1961), GM 's Chevrolet Corvair , and the Ford Falcon. Studebaker also introduced the Lark , and Rambler downsized its near-compact American in 1959. Ford United Kingdom had begun production of the Ford Anglia in 1939, and the earlier Ford Model Y in 1932, followed by the Ford Zephyr , none of which were sold in North America. Ford of Germany built the Ford Eifel , followed by
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#17327985477331584-563: A four-speed transmission for the first time. The two-door Futura sedan (also referred to as an illusion hardtop' because of the chrome trim around the side window opening) sported a flat rear window in place of the panoramic (wrap-around) window on earlier models to bring its design in line with other Ford cars of the era. In 1962, Ford introduced the Ford Falcon Club Wagon and Deluxe Club Wagon, an eight-passenger, Ford Econoline cab over engine van . Ford also promoted that in
1716-500: A high-riser manifold, ram-air through the openings left by deleting the inboard headlights, equal-length headers, trunk-mounted battery, several fiberglass parts (hood, door skins, fenders, and front bumper), acrylic glass windows, and other lightweight options, including deleted rear-door window winders, carpeting, radio, sealant, sun visors, armrests, jack, lug wrench, heater, soundproofing, and passenger-side windshield wiper. The cars wore Fairlane 500 trim, and were only offered with
1848-408: A listed retail price of US$ 1,960 ($ 22,293 in 2023 dollars ). Few changes were made for 1956; a four-door Victoria hardtop and two new, more powerful V8 options, of 292 cu in (4.8 L) and 312 cu in (5.1 L), the latter available up to 225 bhp (168 kW; 228 PS), were introduced. The Lifeguard safety package was introduced. The two-door Victoria hardtop featured
1980-456: A mass-market vehicle led police forces to end their usage of premium-brand (and higher-price) vehicles. Along with comparable sedans from AMC, Chrysler, and General Motors, the model line saw heavy use by police forces that desired robust body-on-frame construction, rear-wheel drive traction, and V8 engine power. In 1950, Ford introduced its first specialized option package for police cars; the package added heavy-duty components and an engine from
2112-734: A more luxurious Ford he designed in 1935. He decided the new car did not fit with Ford's other offerings, so this design eventually became the Mercury . Historically, the "Big Three" auto manufacturers ( GM , Ford , and Chrysler ), focused purely on the larger and more profitable vehicles in the US and Canadian markets. Towards the mid-1950s, all three manufacturers realized that this strategy would no longer work. Large automobiles were becoming increasingly expensive, making smaller cars such as Fiats , Renaults , Toyotas , and Volkswagens increasingly attractive. Furthermore, many American families were now in
2244-508: A new and slimmer roofline. A one-year only two-door station wagon, the 1956 Ford Parklane , featured Fairlane-level trim. It was marketed to compete against the Chevrolet Nomad . For 1957, a new style gave a longer, wider, lower, and sleeker look with low tailfins . The new proportions and modern styling were a hit with customers to the extent that the Ford outsold Chevrolet in 1957 for the first time since 1935. A new top trim level,
2376-552: A padded dashboard, and redesigned door latches. Although this was the first generation of Fords to undergo crash testing, the Lifeguard package was not well received by buyers. Several nameplates in the Ford lineup made their first appearance during this time. Ford introduced the Fairlane , Crown Victoria , and Ranch Wagon as part of the 1955 lineup. Station wagons were now a separate model series from two- and four-doors. For
2508-418: A parking brake warning light were optional. From 1965, the three-speed Cruise-O-Matic automatic transmission was available. Front seat belts were standard. In late 1965, Ford launched the third generation Falcon, based on a shortened Fairlane platform with revised styling. At the top of the line was the highly trimmed Futura Sports Coupe, which featured chrome side window frames, giving this two-door sedan
2640-720: A replacement for the Skyliner retractable hardtop, the Starliner fastback hardtop served as the flagship hardtop, with the Sunliner convertible making its return. For 1962, as the Fairlane was established as a free-standing model range, all full-sized Fords were Galaxies; with the introduction of the Galaxie 500 and Galaxie 500 XL submodels (replacing the Starliner/Sunliner), the bucket-seats-and-console 500 XL served as
2772-546: A single model line of cars (as well as trucks, before 1948), with individual nameplates denoting a trim-level hierarchy. With the 1960 introduction of the Ford Falcon compact, the previous line of Fords (ranging from the Custom to the Galaxie and station wagons) became the full-sized Ford model range of cars. For 1962, Ford used the Fairlane nameplate for a third model range, sized between the Falcon and Galaxie (sharing components from both model lines); named an intermediate,
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#17327985477332904-507: A single-barrel carburetor . Unibody construction, which had previously been introduced by Ford on the luxurious 1958 Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln Continental , accommodated coil spring front suspension, leaf spring rear suspension, and drum brakes front and rear. A three-speed manual column shift was standard, and the two-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic was optional. It had room for six passengers. Body styles included two- and four-door sedans , two- or four-door station wagons , and
3036-456: A small number of Fairlane two door hard tops prepared for drag racing during the 1963 season. These cars were running the 289 and were set up at Dearborn Steel Tubing that built the special cars for Ford special vehicle operations . These soon evolved into the "Thunderbolts" for 1964. The racing Thunderbolt was a two-door post car, heavily modified to incorporate Ford's new 427 CID (7.0 L) V8 race engine with two four-barrel carburetors on
3168-409: A standard 428 CID V8 rated at 335 bhp (250 kW), while options included bucket seats, hood scoop, clock, tachometer, power disc brakes, and 4.30:1 rear axle gearing. "Regular" Fairlanes and Rancheros continued, all with bucket-seat options. Ford's intermediates grew again in 1970, now with a 117 in (2,972 mm) wheelbase. At the start of the model year, only the Fairlane 500 remained as
3300-420: A steering column transmission gear selector lever. A new top-level full-sized model was introduced at mid-year 1959, the Ford Galaxie . The 1959 Galaxie displayed both "Fairlane 500" and "Galaxie" badging. Full-sized Fairlane and Fairlane 500 models were restyled for 1960 and again for the 1961 model year. The Galaxie series continued as the top-of-the-line full-sized Ford. Fairlane 500s demoted to mid-level in
3432-428: A wider chrome stripe down the side and three bullets on the rear quarter panels). The Challenger 289 CID engine was introduced in mid-1963, with solid lifters and other performance pieces helping the engine produce an advertised 271 hp (202 kW); however, it was equipped with single exhaust like the less powerful engines. This engine was coded "K" in the vehicle identification number . Exterior identification
3564-525: Is a term adopted for a long-running line of Ford vehicles with a shared model lineage in North America. Originating in 1908 with the Ford Model T, the line ended in 2019 with the Ford Taurus , as Ford withdrew from the full-sized sedan segment in North America. Across 111 years, 15 generations, and over 60 million examples of the model line were produced across over 50 model nameplates. By contrast,
3696-573: Is the Ford Taurus (which entered production as the 2005 Ford Five Hundred ), which introduced unibody construction, four-wheel independent suspension, and front-wheel drive (optional all-wheel drive); for the first time since 1931, no V8 engine was offered. Similar in several dimensions in comparison to its Crown Victoria market predecessor, the Five Hundred/Taurus was larger the market flagships produced by Ford of Europe ( Ford Scorpio ) and Ford Australia ( Ford Fairlane/LTD ). Following
3828-585: The AMC Rambler . With an overall length of 197 in (5004 mm) and a wheelbase of 115.5 in (2934 mm), it was 16 in (406 mm) longer than the Falcon and 12.3 in (312 mm) shorter than the Galaxie. Wheel track varied from 53.5 in (1355 mm) to 56 in (1422 mm) depending on model and specification. Like the Falcon, the Fairlane had a unibody frame, but the body incorporated an unusual feature Ford dubbed torque boxes, four boxed structures in
3960-464: The Ford F-Series ). To different extents, Mercury and Lincoln shared either a body and/or chassis with full-sized Fords from the 1940s to the 2010s. Alongside with its status as the physically largest sedan offered by Ford in North America, nearly the entire line shared a common design lineage, including a rear-wheel drive layout and body-on-frame construction (excepting the final Ford Taurus),
4092-620: The Ford Köln , which was mechanically similar to the British Model Y, followed later by the Ford Taunus in 1939, but were also not sold in North America. The European Fords, Anglia, Zephyr, and Taunus, were in production at the same time the Falcon was introduced. The project which became the Falcon was started and sponsored by Ford General Manager Robert S. McNamara , who commissioned a team to create what by American standards of
Ford Fairlane (Americas) - Misplaced Pages Continue
4224-690: The Ford LTD . Initially a 1965 submodel of the Galaxie 500, the LTD became a full model line for 1966. Adopting many of the convenience features available on a Lincoln or Mercury, the Ford LTD was introduced before or alongside sedans such as the Chevrolet Caprice and Dodge Monaco . The Ranch Wagon returned to the station-wagon line, based upon the Custom. For 1967, the Ford Galaxie 500 XL
4356-639: The Rambler American , the Falcon was the first compact car marketed by the Big Three American manufacturers. In contrast to its Chevrolet Corvair and (Plymouth) Valiant competitors, the Falcon was developed as a scaled-down version of the full-size Ford Galaxie sedan. Alongside its larger counterparts, the Falcon offered a full range of body styles, including two-door and four-door sedans, two-door hardtops and convertibles, two-door and four-door station wagons (the former, serving as
4488-543: The hidden headlamps (offered by Lincoln-Mercury). The XL and Galaxie 500 SportsRoofs were fastbacks, sharing a roofline with the Mercury Marauder ; standard Galaxie 500s and LTDs used a formal hardtop roofline. During the early 1970s, the model line underwent a transition. After 1970, the XL was discontinued, as demand for high-performance vehicles shifted further away from full-sized vehicles. A minor revision of
4620-444: The "butterfly" hood with its lifting side panels. Ford made several safety-related changes, as well. The dashboard was redesigned (to feature recessed controls) in 1938, hydraulic brakes were added in 1939, and sealed-beam headlights were introduced a year later. For 1941, Ford introduced an all-new generation of cars and trucks. These were the final generation of cars produced in the lifetimes of both Edsel Ford and Henry Ford. Due to
4752-482: The 119-inch wheelbase of the previous generation, Ford redesigned the frame and suspension in an effort to upgrade ride and handling. The longitudinal rear leaf springs (used since 1949) were replaced by a three-link coil-sprung live rear axle. In modified form, the design was used through the production of the 1979-2012 Panther chassis (and the Ford Aerostar van). To comply with federal safety mandates, in 1967
4884-513: The 1946 model with few changes aside from a new grille. Under the hood, the V8 engine was now shared with Mercury, allowing Ford to break the 100-hp barrier for the first time. In 1947, the last Ford trucks based on the car chassis were produced. For 1948, the F-Series was introduced as a dedicated truck chassis. For the 1949 model year, Ford redesigned its car lineup with a number of significant changes. The transverse-leaf suspension, seen since
5016-518: The 1964 model year, Ford's new offering for that market was launched: the Ford Mustang , based heavily on the Falcon's unified frame design. TV commercials now used the character Hazel as well as the Peanuts cartoon characters. The Ford Motor Company was a sponsor of the show, and also sponsored The Ford Show during the late 1950s. For the 1964 year, Ford added a Sprint Package, which gave
5148-462: The 1964½ Mustangs released by Ford one year later. Many (if not most) of the interior, chassis, suspension, and drivetrain components were derived from those used on the 1963½ Ford Falcon Sprint and/or Fairlane models. In simplest terms, the 1963½ Falcon Sprint is nearly mechanically identical to the 1964½ Mustang, while being aesthetically different. The second generation 1964 Falcon, launched in 1963, featured revised, more squared-off styling. Later in
5280-560: The 1970s progressed, Ford gradually consolidated its full-sized range under the LTD nameplate (which included the Country Squire station wagon). After 1974, the Galaxie was discontinued (along with the Country Sedan station wagon); the Custom 500 was largely relegated to fleet and police sales. Second only in production to the Model T, about 7,850,000 examples of the 1969-1978 full-sized Ford/Mercury platform were produced;
5412-459: The 1979 LTD received smaller exterior dimensions than the midsized LTD II. In spite of its smaller size, the redesign led to increased interior and trunk space. The all-new Panther chassis remained rear-wheel drive, and retained the standard V8 engine power. As the LTD was introduced, Ford began development on its intended replacement, the front-wheel drive Ford Taurus . As fuel prices stabilized and demand for full-sized cars remained, Ford made
Ford Fairlane (Americas) - Misplaced Pages Continue
5544-596: The 2007 model year. For the 1955 model year the Fairlane name replaced the Crestline as Ford's premier full-sized offering. Six different body styles were offered, including the Crown Victoria Skyliner with a tinted, transparent plastic roof, the regular Crown Victoria coupe with much stainless steel trim, a convertible Sunliner, the Victoria hardtop coupe, and traditional sedans. All featured
5676-440: The 2011 model year, it was no longer legal for sale in North America (as the model was designed without stability control). Following a short run of 2012 production destined entirely for export to Saudi Arabia, the final Ford Crown Victoria was produced on September 15, 2011. Ford Falcon (North America) The Ford Falcon is a model line of cars that was produced by Ford from the 1960 to 1970 model years. Though preceded by
5808-694: The 370 hp 429 Cobra Jet Ram Air V8. For 1971, Ford adopted the Torino nameplate across its entire intermediate model line, leading to the retirement of both the Falcon and Fairlane nameplates in North America. Variations of the Ford Falcon were manufactured in Argentina , Australia , Canada , Chile and Mexico . Early Mexican built versions of the Ford Maverick used the Falcon Maverick name. From 1961 to 1967, passenger versions of
5940-426: The 390 CID V8 in two- and four-barrel versions. The 390 four-barrel was supplanted mid-year as the top performance engine by the 428 cu in (7.0 L) Cobra Jet, developing 335 bhp (250 kW). There was also a 428 cu in (7.0 L) Super Cobra Jet. For 1969, the Fairlane 500 , Ranchero, and Torino GT/GTA were also offered with the new 351W CID with a two-barrel producing 250 HP and only in
6072-412: The Fairlane 500 was added to the Fairlane model line and the Country Squire continued to be the luxury station wagon while the Country Sedan was now added to the Fairlane model line, while engine choices were largely the same as the year before. The big news for 1957 was the introduction of the Fairlane 500 Skyliner power retractable hardtop , whose solid top hinged and folded down into the trunk space at
6204-435: The Fairlane and Torino). As the lowest-price intermediate series, the Falcon was marketed with a limited number of luxury and convenience options, including standard manual windows (optional power windows were limited to the station wagon) and radios demoted to optional status. The model line was offered with the entire range of powertrains available to Ford intermediates, ranging from a 155 hp 250 cubic-inch inline-6 to
6336-477: The Fairlane became a long wheelbase longer body version of the revised Falcon platform with the mid size wagon bodies common to both model lines. The appearance was changed to match the full-sized Ford Galaxie , which had been restyled in the 1965 model year, and adopted vertically stacked dual headlights. The XL, GT, and GTA packages were introduced, as well as a convertible to join the existing range of sedans, hardtops, and station wagons. The "K-code" 289 CID engine
6468-619: The Fairlane concept, now called the Ford Flex , debuted at the 2007 New York Auto Show, and entered production for the 2009 model year in summer 2008. Unlike the concept, the production model comes with seven seats. It is built on the Ford D3 platform , which is also used by the Ford Taurus , and Mercury Sable . It is intended to replace the people-mover capability of the Ford Freestar minivan. Full-size Ford Full-size Ford
6600-659: The Fairlane was an ancestor of the mid-sized car segment of today. Following the expansion of Ford chassis, several Ford body styles ended their production during this generation. Following a large decline in demand, 1960 marked the final year of the Ford Courier sedan delivery (largely replaced by the Ford Econoline van, derived from the Falcon) and 1961 marked the end of the two-door Ranch Wagon (with all Ford station wagons becoming four-doors). The Ranchero shifted to
6732-510: The Fairlane was based on the American LTD II . At the 2005 Auto Show circuit , Ford revealed a new concept car with the Fairlane nameplate. The "people-mover" Fairlane crossover utility vehicle concept featured three-row seating for six passengers, and previewed the chromed three-bar horizontal grill design, which also appeared on the 2006 Ford Fusion sedan and 2007 Ford Edge crossover utility vehicle." A production version of
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#17327985477336864-411: The Fairlane's 164-hp "Challenger" 260-CID (4.3-L) V8 engine was offered for the first time. The only time a V8 option was available in a first-generation Falcon was the 1963½ model, and these cars were produced in very limited numbers (Sprint two-door hardtop (bucket seats) 10,479 produced and Sprint convertible (bucket seats) 4,602 produced). These first-generation Falcon Sprint cars were the basis for
6996-490: The Falcon front end styling to the Fairlane front end design. The 289 CID small-block was the base V8, with a 200 CID six standard, with the 390 CID optional (with either two- or four-barrel carburetor, at 275 and 320 bhp (240 kW), respectively). The 427s were still available, either with a single four-barrel carburetor or dual quad carbs, developing 410 (W-code) and 425 bhp (R-code), 427s were available on XL models, but very few were built. Adapted across
7128-541: The Falcon the Fairlane's 260 V8, a stiffer suspension, and a louder exhaust. Because the Mustang had the same options that the Sprint had for only a small amount more, the Sprint never caught on. Even with the addition of the 289 V8 in late 1964, the Sprint was overshadowed by the Mustang, and was discontinued after 1965. The Mustang dealt Falcon sales in North America a blow from which they would never recover. Front suspension
7260-465: The Falcon was manufactured by Ford in multiple facilities across North America. Following its discontinuation in that region, the platform continued in production through 1991 by Ford Argentina (as the Ford Granada). From 1972, Ford Australia continued development of the Falcon as a model line distinct to the region, lasting through 2016. Edsel Ford first used the term "Falcon" for
7392-483: The Ford Fairlane and Ford Torino). To comply with federal safety regulations, the Falcon was now fitted with a locking steering column and 3-point outboard seatbelts. Distinguished from its higher-trim counterparts by its lack of grille badging, the 1970½ Falcon was offered in three body styles: a two-door pillared sedan (a body unique to the Falcon) and a four-door sedan and five-door station wagon (shared with
7524-475: The Fords on a 121 in (3.07 m) wheelbase, and the variously named Mercurys (except their wagons) on a more luxurious 124 in (3.15 m) wheelbase. Necessitated by the implementation of American federal fuel economy standards ( CAFE ), Ford introduced an all-new full-sized line for 1979. In line with General Motors, Ford underwent downsizing, losing 15 inches of length and 800 pounds of curb weight;
7656-509: The Frontenac was discontinued and replaced by the Comet for 1961. Robert McNamara , a Ford executive who became Ford's president briefly before being offered the job of U.S. Defense Secretary , is regarded by many as "the father of the Falcon". McNamara left Ford shortly after the Falcon's introduction, but his faith in the concept was vindicated with record sales; over half a million sold in
7788-654: The Futura name this year." Although the Falcon, Fairlane, and Fairlane 500 names would disappear, the Futura name would reappear in 1978 on the Fairmont Futura Sport Coupe . After a shortened 1970 model year, the third-generation Falcon was replaced by the Ford Maverick. As a mid-year introduction (designated as a 1970½ model year), Ford returned the Falcon nameplate for a second time, using it for its entry-level intermediate line (slotted below
7920-571: The LTD "Elite" option was introduced as the most luxurious made in Argentina. By the end of production in 1981, almost 30,000 Fairlanes had been made. Ford manufactured the Torino in Venezuela marketed as the Fairlane and Fairlane 500. These cars were identical to the U.S. Torino through 1976 and both base Fairlane and upscale Fairlane 500 used the 1973–1974 Torino base model grille. For 1977–1978
8052-515: The LTD nameplate took over for a facelifted version of the slow-selling Granada sedan. For 1992, the Crown Victoria was introduced (dropping the LTD prefix); the Country Squire station wagon was discontinued. As part of a substantial upgrade of the Panther chassis, the Crown Victoria adopted a ground-up redesign of the exterior (influenced by the first-generation Taurus). The redesign included four-wheel disc brakes, antilock brakes, and dual airbags;
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#17327985477338184-632: The Mercury sedan. Following the 1996 demise of the General Motors B platform (AMC ended production of large rear-wheel drive sedans in 1978, with Chrysler following suit in 1981), Ford held a virtual monopoly on police vehicles sold in North America into the 2010s. For 1992, the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor became a distinct model line (not offered to the general public). The heavy-duty chassis of
8316-496: The Model T aged in comparison to its competition, the market share held by Ford began to erode by the mid-1920s. At the end of 1927, the Model A was introduced as its replacement. Introduced in December 1927, the Model A borrowed its name from the first car produced by the company in 1903. As with the Model T, the Model A used a front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout with body-on-frame construction; an all-new four-cylinder engine
8448-465: The Model T, was replaced by independent front suspension and longitudinal leaf springs. Fenders and running boards were completely integrated into the bodywork. In 1950, the Ford model line expanded itself further as the division added model names to the lineup (as opposed to Ford Standard or Ford Custom). A year later, an automatic transmission appeared for the first time. Wood-paneled station wagons were now available as Country Squire . Ford entered
8580-611: The Ranchero car-based pickup, transferred onto the Falcon platform for 1960 from the Fairlane. The Comet, originally intended for the defunct Edsel marque and based on the 1960 Falcon, was launched in the US in March 1960. (By 1962, the Comet adopted more Mercury-based styling and was folded into the Mercury line as the Mercury Comet.) The market shift that spurred the development of the Falcon and its competitors also precipitated
8712-473: The Sports Coupe got its own standard "spinner" wheel covers and extra exterior brightwork. Large "Sports Coupe" scripts graced the "C" pillars. The Fairlane Squire wagon was dropped, but the standard station wagon was continued. The 221 V8 was dropped after 1963, leaving the six as the base engine and the 260 as the base V8. The "K-code" 271-horsepower 289 V8 continued into 1964, gaining dual exhausts, while
8844-591: The Super Stock title (with Gas Ronda taking the honors), and won the Manufacturer's Cup. The car as delivered was slightly too light to meet NHRA's 3200-lb (1451-kg) minimum weight unless it was raced with a full tank of gasoline, which would bring it to 3203 lb (1453 kg). NHRA rules at the time required a metal front bumper, so the cars began to be supplied with an aluminum bumper and previous purchasers were supplied with one. Thunderbolt production
8976-477: The Torino GT/GTA the 351W four-barrel with 290 HP could be ordered. The Ranchero coupe utility body style was available in standard, 500, and GT versions. The Cobra was introduced in 1969 as a competitor for Plymouth's Road Runner. Basic models featured the 302 CID V8 and three-speed manual transmission as standard. Options included the 390 CID and two 428 cu in (7.0 L) V8s. The Cobras had
9108-443: The base or the 500 trim. Base hardtop sales more than doubled, to 44,683 units. The base engine was the 200 cu in (3.3 L) I6, with several optional V8s. Early production 1968 base V8 Fairlanes were equipped with the two-barrel 289 cu in (4.7 L), while later units came with the 302 cu in (4.9 L). The GTs were part of the Torino range, with the 302 CID V8 standard, with optional engines being
9240-410: The base trim model in what was now effectively the Torino series. The straight six-cylinder was the economy power, while largest engine was now a 429 cu in (7.0 L) with four-barrel carburetor and 360 bhp (270 kW). Different heads were optional and gave the Cobra 370 bhp (280 kW) and higher compression. Other options included the Cobra Jet Ram Air 429, though Ford quoted
9372-427: The block letters on their hoods. The big-block 390 CID V8 was available in 1961 as the top-horsepower option, as the "horsepower wars" in Detroit continued. The Fairlane name was moved to Ford's new intermediate, introduced for the 1962 model year, to bridge the gap between the compact Ford Falcon and the full-sized Galaxie , making it a competitor for GM's A-body "senior compacts" , the Plymouth Belvedere , and
9504-415: The brakes, throttle, and clutch, as well as a separate gearshift. Safety glass made their automotive industry debut when Ford used it for the windshield. For the 1932 model year, Ford introduced a revised version of the Model A. The Model B was introduced with a modernized powertrain and chassis and slightly restyled bodywork. Only five years removed from the last Model T, the Model B introduced Ford and
9636-413: The cars they replaced. A fastback Sportsroof model was introduced in the Fairlane 500 series, as well as a more luxurious Torino model at the top of the intermediate range, contributing 172,083 of the Fairlane's 371,787 units sold that year. In a cost-saving decision, the station wagons carried over the 1966-67 bodies from the cowl back. The Ranch Wagon model name was deleted; Fairlane wagons had either
9768-405: The center console, which had come from the Falcon parts bin for 1962, was changed to be similar to that of the Galaxie. Sports Coupe models got a floor-mounted shift lever for the center console when Cruise-O-Matic or 4-speed manual transmissions were specified; however when the two-speed Fordomatic was ordered, the shift lever was installed on the steering column (and the console was the same without
9900-408: The compact Falcon chassis for 1960, ending its commonality with full-sized Fords. For 1961, Mercury downsized its model line; in what would be a precedent through 1978, Mercury full-sized sedans became mechanical counterparts of the full-sized Ford, distinguished by a slightly longer wheelbase. The 1960 Ford chassis received a number of drivetrain revisions. While 1960 had engines carried over from
10032-570: The contemporary Fairlane. The Ranchero left the Falcon line and adopted the Fairlane's front sheet metal for 1967. The 1966 Falcon was used in the Trans-Am series. The 1967 models were mostly the same as the 1966 models, but more Federally-mandated safety equipment was added, including a dual-circuit brake system, energy-absorbing steering wheel with a large, padded center hub, 4-way flashers, soft interior panels, and mountings for front shoulder belts (which were available as an option). A reminder light
10164-643: The decision to continue to produce the Panther platform alongside the Taurus. In a rebranding of the model line, the Custom 500 was dropped in the United States (ending altogether in Canada in 1981). In 1983, as part of a major model shift throughout Ford Motor Company, the LTD and LTD Crown Victoria were split apart. The LTD Crown Victoria (and the Country Squire) became the sole full-sized cars, while
10296-424: The deluxe models and rectangular taillight lenses, a return to the 1962-1963 trunk lid, along with less chrome on the body and a small standup hood ornament. Australian and New Zealand models had longer cut-outs in the rear bumper to accommodate their license plates. Australian models had the "reverse light" tail light which was used for an amber rear turn signal. As the muscle car market took shape, Ford built
10428-585: The demise of several well-established marques in the late-1950s and early-1960s. Besides the infamous tale of the Edsel, DeSoto , and Packard nameplates all disappeared from the marketplace, while the Nash and Hudson companies were merged to become American Motors Corporation and Studebaker survived until 1967. In 1960, Ford's Canadian subsidiary introduced the Falcon-based Frontenac . It
10560-430: The door glass and rear side glass, while the higher trim level Fairlanes were pillarless two-door hardtops, similar to the convertibles. A redesign was introduced for the 1968 model year, and continued the similarity to the Ford Galaxie series. The wheelbase remained at 116 in (2,946 mm), but it grew in other dimensions. They were about four inches (102 mm) longer and 200 lb (91 kg) heavier than
10692-519: The downsizing of the Ford LTD to the Panther platform for the 1979 model year, Ford produced over 5 million vehicles under the LTD, LTD Crown Victoria, Country Squire, Crown Victoria, Crown Victoria P71, and Crown Victoria Police Interceptor nameplates. Following the 1932 introduction of the Ford V8, police forces of North America shifted preferences for police cars ; the powerful V8 engine paired in
10824-425: The early 1960s, following the introduction of compact and intermediate sedans by American automakers (with Ford releasing the Ford Falcon , Ford Fairlane , and the later Ford Mustang ). While not a size term relative to its predecessors, full-size indicated the largest and most complete sedan offered by Ford (at 134 inches long, the Model T was 6 inches shorter than the introductory 1976 Ford Fiesta). Following
10956-476: The engine/transmission combination for NHRA and IHRA Super Stock racing, they were white and had fiberglass hoods with a forward-facing hood scoop which ended at the edge of the hood. The Fairlane Squire wagon was reintroduced for 1966. Minor trim changes were introduced for 1967 as the Fairlane was mildly facelifted. For the 1967 model year the Ranchero pickup based on the same platform switched from using
11088-471: The entire automotive industry to yearly changes for model styling. In 1933, the exterior was redesigned, while the 1934 wore a new front end of its own; all three versions rode on the same basic chassis. For 1932, Ford introduced an option that would remain in the full-sized Ford line for seven decades. Developed as a response to the 1929 introduction of the Chevrolet "Stovebolt Six" , the Model 18 offered
11220-477: The entire range of Ford models for 1967, Fairlanes included a number of federal government-mandated safety features, including a new energy-absorbing steering column with a large padded steering wheel hub, soft interior trim, four-way hazard flashers, a dual-chamber braking system, and shoulder belt anchors. The convertible had a tempered safety glass rear window. Two different two-door coupe models were offered. The lower-end Fairlane Club Coupe had pillars separating
11352-409: The exterior was introduced for 1971; while the tradition of Ford round/square brake lights was ended, the LTD became one of the first cars equipped with a third brake light (a feature dropped in 1973), and 1972 marked the final year for the long-running Custom and the LTD convertible. For 1973, the full-sized line underwent a redesign of the body. To accommodate federal regulations, the front fascia
11484-597: The first generations of the Ford Mustang and Mercury Cougar pony cars and the Ford Econoline/Ford Falcon Van/Ford Club Wagon vans, the platform was used for two generations of successors to the Falcon, including the Ford Maverick and Mercury Comet and the later Ford Granada and Mercury Monarch ; the Lincoln Versailles luxury sedan was the final model line derived from the Falcon. During its production,
11616-526: The first time since 1949, the 1957 Ford lineup was built on an all-new chassis; a new frame allowed for the use of lower-mounted bodies. As part of the convertible lineup, the Skyliner introduced a new feature: the retractable hardtop. The Ranchero , introduced in 1957, was the first coupe utility pickup sold in North America, antedating the Chevrolet El Camino by two years. The Ranchero
11748-497: The first year and over a million sold by the end of the second year. The 1961 model year introduced an optional 101-hp, 170-CID (2.8-L) six, and two new models were introduced; a bucket-seat and console sedan model in a higher trim level called the Futura, and a sedan delivery . The Ford Falcon brochure featured Charlie Brown and Lucy Van Pelt from the Peanuts comic strip, who remained until 1965. The television marketing of
11880-553: The formal rear roofline of the Mercury Grand Marquis and minor revisions to the front and rear fascias. For the 2003, the Panther chassis underwent an update to the frame and suspension, improving the handling of the model line. While well supported by fleet and police sales, Ford ended retail sale of the Crown Victoria, effectively replacing the model line between the Taurus and the Grand Marquis. Following
12012-460: The front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration to the company, the Model T was the first Ford produced in left-hand drive. Throughout its production run, the Model T had relatively few changes. In addition to changes to refine its production (which dictated its specification of black paint), technological upgrades were made along the way. Ford added electric lights (in 1910), electric starting (1919), balloon tires (1925), and wire wheels (1926). As
12144-417: The full-sized Fords were updated with a padded dashboard, recessed controls, collapsible steering column with padded steering wheel, and three-point seatbelts; 1968 models gained side marker lights. For 1968, the front fascia underwent a revision, shifting from vertically stacked headlights to horizontally mounted headlamps; the XL, LTD, and Country Squire were given hidden headlamps. The 1965 Ford line gained
12276-449: The inability of the car to meet forthcoming safety standards resulted in a short run of 1970 models identical to the 1969 version being built through the end of December, 1969; none of the 1970-model Falcons used a locking steering column that would be standard on all other 1970 Ford products (except Mavericks built before September 1969). "Despite the listing of a plain Falcon series in some early literature, it appears that all Falcons bore
12408-530: The introduction of solid wheels and the integration of the horn into the bodywork. For 1937, Ford updated its car lineup with minor styling changes. However, the introduction of the De Luxe Ford marked the beginning of expansion of the Ford Motor Company brand lineup. De Luxe Ford was marketed as an upscale sub-brand to bridge the gap between Ford and Lincoln-Zephyr . In 1939, the Mercury
12540-469: The lineup and were equivalent to the Chevrolet Bel Air . Fairlanes were primarily sold as base level trim models for fleet use (taxi, police). Two bodystyles were available, a 2-door pillared sedan (Club Sedan and Business Sedan) and a 4-door pillared sedan (Town Sedan). While the 1960 de luxe Galaxie and Fairlane 500 series sported a tri-color Ford crest on the hood, base Fairlanes had "FORD" in chrome block letters across their hoods. For 1961, all models got
12672-413: The long-running 5.0 L V8 was replaced by a 4.6 L V8, the first overhead-cam V8 offered in an American full-sized sedan. The Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor was introduced as a purpose-built police vehicle, including upgraded suspension and drivetrain components; the distinct model was not offered for retail sale. The Crown Victoria underwent a single exterior revision for 1998 model year, adopting
12804-500: The longest-running single nameplate worldwide is the Chevrolet Suburban , in use since the 1935 model year. While best known for its production as a four-door sedan, the model lineage supported a wide range of body configurations, including coupes, hard tops, convertibles, station wagons, and retractable hardtops. Prior to the 1948 model year, the Ford chassis was also the basis of Ford pickup trucks (which were replaced by
12936-407: The look of a hardtop. It also featured a premium all-vinyl interior. Large "Sports Coupe" script on the "C" pillar was borrowed from the 1964–1965 Fairlane Sports Coupe. The heater-defroster became standard. Brakes were 9-in for six-cylinder Falcons, and 10-in for V8s. The two-door hardtop and convertible were dropped, while the station wagon and Ranchero were moved to a larger platform shared with
13068-468: The lower body structure designed to absorb road shock by moving slightly in the vertical plane. Suspension was a conventional short-long arm independent arrangement in front, with Hotchkiss drive in the rear. The Fairlane was initially offered only in two-door or four-door sedan body styles. The Fairlane's standard engine was the 170 CID (2.8 L) six , but as an option, it introduced Ford's new, lightweight small-block Windsor V8 , initially with
13200-541: The market for a second car, and market research showed women especially thought the full-size car had grown too large and cumbersome. At the same time, research showed many buyers would prefer to buy US or Canadian if the domestic manufacturers offered a smaller car with lower cost of ownership. Thus, all three introduced compacts : the Valiant from Chrysler (becoming the Plymouth Valiant in 1960, and joined by
13332-438: The model line featured the first animated appearances of the characters from Charles Schulz 's acclaimed comic strip , Peanuts , with announcer contribution from Paul Frees . Ford boasted of the good fuel economy achieved by the six-cylinder Ford Falcon models in advertising. The fuel economy was good, a claimed 30 mpg ‑US (7.8 L/100 km; 36 mpg ‑imp ), compared to other American cars at
13464-755: The model line proved popular among police forces during the 1990s, following the development of the PIT maneuver . While the Ford Five Hundred was never offered as a police vehicle, the Ford Police Interceptor Sedan was introduced for 2013 (developed from the Taurus; the Police Interceptor Utility was developed from the Ford Explorer). Though the first Ford police car produced without rear-wheel drive or
13596-581: The overhead-valve Y-block V8 replaced the Flathead V8 seen since 1932. At 130 hp, the Y-block produced twice the horsepower as the original 1932 V8. In 1955, the Ford car lineup was given a mild update over the previous year, although several features made their first appearance in this generation. Air conditioning was now available as a factory-installed option. The Lifeguard option package, introduced in 1956, featured front and rear seat belts,
13728-497: The previous generation, 1961 marked the first use of the long-running Windsor V8 engine family, with a 289 V8 replacing a 292 Y-block V8. The 390 FE-series V8 was introduced, marking the first big-block V8 (ranging from 352 to 427 cubic inches) in a Ford sedan. The 1960 Ford saw several nameplate shifts. Following the discontinuation of the Custom/Custom 300, the Fairlane served as the standard Ford for 1960 and 1961. As
13860-469: The price low, while providing room for six passengers in reasonable comfort. The sales success of the conventional Falcon along with slow sales of GM's rear-engined Corvair led General Motors to introduce their own compact car based on the Falcon's principles, the Chevy II . The 1960 Falcon was powered by a small, lightweight 95-hp (70 kW), 144 CID (2.4 L) Mileage Maker straight-six with
13992-416: The production of the Model T nearly unchanged from 1908 to 1927, the introduction of the Model A marked the first of multiple generations of a common model lineage, keeping pace with contemporary technology and consumer tastes. With the introduction of its V8 engine, the 1932 Ford Model B/Model 18 became the first widely produced car line with the engine type. From the 1932 to 2012 model years, Ford offered
14124-467: The same power output, and the Drag Pack rated at 375 bhp (280 kW). However, the 1970s were slower than the 1969s, and race teams were forced to run the older models. The Falcon name was transferred from Ford's now discontinued, in the US, compact to a basic, even lower-trim version of the intermediate platform as a "1970½" model on January 1, 1970. This series included a two-door sedan which
14256-544: The shifter). Front-end styling for the 1963 models mimicked the big Galaxie models, but the rear end retained the small tailfins and "pieplate" tail lamp styling cues. The Squire wagon (a fake woodie ) was available for 1963 only, including one model with front bucket seats. The "Swing-Away" steering wheel became an option in 1964. The 1964 and 1965, Fairlane ranges consisted of similar body styles: base Fairlane and Fairlane 500 two-door coupes and four-door sedans , and Fairlane 500 and Sports Coupe two-door hardtops. As in 1963,
14388-476: The success of Mercury, De Luxe Ford was changed from a subbrand back to a trim level within the Ford lineup. The width of the body had now increased to the point where running boards had become vestigial. For the first time since the Model K of 1906, an inline-six engine was available (as a base engine). From February 1942 to July 1945, civilian production was discontinued as Ford manufactured military products for World War II. As production resumed, Ford released
14520-426: The time would be a small car , but elsewhere in the world considered a mid-size . McNamara, who was promoted to Group Vice President of Cars and Trucks by the time the Falcon was launched, was intimately involved in development, insisting on keeping the costs and weight of the car as low as possible. Engineer Harley Copp employed a unibody atop a standard suspension and sourced parts from Ford's existing bin to keep
14652-402: The time. The 1962 model year had a Squire model of the four-door station wagon with faux wood trim on the sides. The bucket-seat "Futura" model was offered with a slightly upgraded interior, factory-installed safety belts, different side trim (spears), and different emblems. Halfway through the model year, Ford changed the roof line at the back window to more of a Thunderbird design and offered
14784-402: The touch of a button, while the Ford Ranchero 2-door coupe utility was also introduced. Another facelift for 1958 had fashionable quad headlights, a grille that matched the 1958 Thunderbird , and other styling changes. New big-block FE V8s of 332 and 352 CID (5.4 L and 5.8 L) replaced the previous largest V8s, and a better three-speed automatic transmission was also available with
14916-464: The trademark stainless-steel "Fairlane stripe" on the side. Power options were a 223 cu in (3.7 L) straight-6 engine and a 272 cu in (4.5 L) V8 . The 292 cu in (4.8 L) Y-block was offered as an option and was called the Thunderbird V-8. The Fairlane 4-door Town Sedan was the most popular sedan Ford sold that year, having manufactured 254,437 with
15048-685: The two-door sedan body. This special model, of which 111 to 127 total were made (sources disagree), delivered 657 hp (490 kW) at 7,500 rpm and was known as the Thunderbolt . Racing in NHRA Super Stock (which required only fifty cars be available to the public), on 7-inch (180 mm)-wide tires, the Thunderbolt was based on the midlevel Fairlane 500 two-door pillared sedan, and in 1964 set elapsed time and top speed records at 11.6 seconds and 124 mph (200 km/h). took
15180-479: The youth market in 1951 with a new Victoria pillarless hardtop-convertible, a direct competitor to the Chevrolet Bel Air. For 1952, Ford updated its cars with mild exterior updates; this generation is distinguished by the introduction of a single-piece windshield. The pedals were remounted from the floor to below the dashboard. Mechanically, power brakes and power steering became an option in 1954, and
15312-416: Was added for the seatbelts; 1968 was the first model year for the square tail lights. 1968 and 1969 Falcons got new side marker lights or reflectors, front outboard shoulder belts, and headrests for cars built after January 1, 1969. The basic body and mechanical specifications remained the same as 1966–1967 models. The final model year for the Falcon in North America was 1970. Continuing sales declines and
15444-472: Was built in Argentina from 1969 to 1973 and the 1969 body style from 1973 to 1981 under the Fairlane name with three equipment packages: Standard, 500 and LTD. The car was similar to the American model except the engines. The two options were a 221 CID 6-cylinder with 132 hp (98 kW), and the old 292 phase I (1969–1971) CID "Y-block" V8 which had been last used in the 1964 F-Series truck; it
15576-490: Was by fender-mounted "V" badges that read "289 High Performance". That same year, station wagons arrived, called the Ranch Wagon and Ranch Custom Wagon. All 1962 Fairlanes had "B" posts despite the popularity of the pillarless hardtop and convertible styles in that era. Ford saw the problem and introduced two pillarless hardtop coupes for 1963, in Fairlane 500 and Sports Coupe trim. For 1963 and later Sports Coupe models,
15708-428: Was coil springs pivot-mounted on upper arms plus double-acting absorbers. Six-cylinder cars had four-lug hubs with 13-in steel wheels. V-8 cars got five-lug wheels. For 1965, changes were minimal, including a simpler grille and revised side trim on deluxe models. Production ended on June 26, 1965, for convertible Falcons. A padded instrument panel, power steering, power brakes, a radio, a remote-control trunk release, and
15840-411: Was designed to give Mercury - Meteor dealers a smaller model to sell, since the Comet was originally intended as an Edsel, which was sold by Ford-Monarch dealers. Produced for the 1960 model year only, the Frontenac was essentially a rebadged 1960 Falcon with its own unique grille, tail lights, and external trim, including red maple-leaf insignia. Despite strong sales (5% of Ford's total Canadian output),
15972-520: Was developed from the Courier sedan delivery with the bodywork above the cargo area removed. In 1959, the Galaxie nameplate was introduced. For 1960, the full-sized Ford chassis was lengthened by an inch to a 119-inch wheelbase. Coinciding with the redesign, a long-running precedent within Ford came to an end. Since the introduction of the Model T over a half-century before, Ford had largely produced
16104-751: Was dropped this year. The GT featured a 390 CID FE V8 as standard, while the GTA also included the newly introduced the SportShift Cruise-o-Matic automatic transmission. The GT/GTA 390 CID engine developed 335 bhp (250 kW) with higher compression, and had a four-barrel carburetor. Mid year, Ford produced 57 special Fairlane 500 two-door hardtops with "R-code" 427 cu in (7.0 L) V8 engine rated at 425 bhp (431 PS; 317 kW) at 6000 rpm and 480 lb⋅ft (651 N⋅m) at 3700 rpm of torque , equipped with Ford's "Top-Loader" four-speed manual transmission. Built to qualify
16236-806: Was ended due to NHRA rule changes for Super Stock competition, requiring 500 vehicles be built to be entered in that class. Ford had been losing $ 1500 to $ 2000 on each Thunderbolt sold at the sticker price of $ 3900. The first 11 Thunderbolts were painted maroon (known as Vintage Burgundy in Ford literature), the rest white; 99 had manual transmissions. Many are still raced. About 50 similar Mercury Cyclones were also produced by Ford in 1964, destined to be modified to represent Ford in A/FX competition, which they dominated, as well. These vehicles varied greatly in wheel track due to customer options for varying suspension and wheel/tire combinations. Front tracks from 54 to 56 in and rear tracks from 53.5 to 55.5 in were common. For 1966
16368-501: Was finally phased out, leaving the Cruise-O-Matic as the only automatic available for the Fairlane. The 260 was also dropped after 1964, leaving the two-barrel 289 as the base V8. Styling-wise, in 1964, a new grille and headlight bezels were introduced, the tail fins were dropped, some chrome decorating on the side was changed, and the shape of the trunk lid changed. Styling features for 1965 included body-color headlight bezels for
16500-551: Was fitted with large 5 mph bumpers (rear versions were added for 1974). While Lincoln-Mercury retained hardtop rooflines, Ford added thick B-pillars and fixed rear quarter windows to its two-door coupes. Four-door sedans and station wagons became "pillared hardtops"; while still using frameless door glass, the roofline was reinforced with thin metal B-pillars. To accommodate the growth in size, V8 engines became standard, ranging up to 7.5 L (460 cubic inches); in another change, automatic transmissions also became standard equipment. As
16632-498: Was improved with a new admission very similar to that of the small block 289, 302 pistons maximum compression with lomo brand Buxton were used, raising the compression at 8 to 1, allowing the engine erogue 185 HP at 4500 rpm, another improvement were leaks with individual manifold runners, eliminating the original American system of a manifold connected to another in series, used in trucks, in cars they were always individual. Distributors are different in coupling, calling FASE II . In 1978,
16764-450: Was introduced. As before, the Model A was produced in a wide variety of body styles; in contrast to its predecessor, the car's bodywork was designed by an in-house styling predecessor headed by Edsel Ford . Produced from 1927 to 1931, around 4.8 million were produced. As the Model A was the first all-new design in 19 years, many features were upgraded. The Model A introduced Ford buyers to conventional driver controls; it now had pedals for
16896-425: Was launched; although sharing a chassis with the Ford, its body was 6 inches wider with a wheelbase 4 inches longer; Mercury superseded De Luxe Ford as a brand. As buyer tastes began to change in the late 1930s, certain body styles were pruned from the lineup; 1939 was the last year for the fur-door phaeton and for single-seat coupes and convertibles (and their rumble seats). A conventional "alligator" hood replaced
17028-471: Was not available in the higher trim lines. For 1971, the Falcon and Fairlane 500 names were dropped, as all of the intermediate models took the Torino name. The Falcon and Fairlane names continued to be used in Australia through to the 21st century. The Fairlane name continued to be used in Venezuela through 1978 on corresponding Ford Torino and LTD II models. The four-door sedan of the 1968 body style
17160-525: Was rated at 185 hp (138 kW), in 1971 the Ford Motor Company Argentina decided to make an improvement on the 292, was started by the covers mainly the problem of spark plugs was solved by giving an inclination towards the front of the engine that allowed an easier extraction in the car, changed the opening order and exhaust cam, valves larger intake (of the 292 heavy duty American) were placed, fuel lines making them more direct
17292-714: Was rebranded as the Ford XL (sportiest of the full-sized Ford line). For 1969, the full-sized Ford line was given a redesign. Expanding to a 121-inch wheelbase, the all-new chassis shared a similar suspension configuration as the previous generation. In a marketing change, Ford streamlined its full-sized line, integrating station wagons and sedan nameplates together. Alongside traditional differences between grilles and trim, Ford designers began to further distinguish each full-sized model range from each other. While Customs and Galaxies were fitted with exposed headlamps (shifted from vertically stacked to horizontal), XLs and LTDs adopted
17424-425: Was repackaged as an intermediate-segment car (today, mid-size ) from 1962 to 1970. For 1971, Ford expanded the Ford Torino nameplate across its entire intermediate range, dropping the Fairlane (and Falcon) nameplates in North America. In South America, the sixth generation Fairlane was marketed through 1981; Ford Australia used the nameplate on its own version of the Fairlane (a long-wheelbase Ford Falcon ) through
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