Ford Fairmont Sedan

Prototype Information

Ford launched the Fairmont in 1978 to replace the aging Maverick. The car introduced the famous Fox platform to the world. This lightweight chassis later supported the iconic third-generation Mustang. Ford gave the Fairmont a boxy, upright shape to maximize interior room. The design focused on efficiency and great visibility. Buyers loved it immediately. The Fairmont sold more units in its first year than any Ford model before it, including the 1965 Mustang.

The Fairmont offered several engine choices, from a small four-cylinder to a 302 V8. Its simple look eventually felt dated as aerodynamic styles became popular. Ford shifted the model into the upscale Granada line in 1981. They later rebranded the chassis as the LTD in 1983. Ford finally ended Fairmont production that same year to launch the front-wheel-drive Tempo. Today, hot rodders hunt for these sedans. They use the Fairmont as a “sleeper” because it shares so many performance parts with the Mustang.