Scorpio/Ultima: to 1998
Body
Styles: 5 door hatchback, 4 Door saloon,
5 door estate (station wagon)
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Finally came the controversial 'Ultima' models. Its refinements put it head to head with the best from Germany and the rest of the world, however, the front-end design alienated many traditional buyers. The front lights came in for a great deal of ridicule. |
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Unlike the MK3/Scorpio, an estate (station wagon) was conceived right from the beginning. V6 models were very practical, with roomy interiors and every gadget know to man; they were (and still are) a superb long distance tourer
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| Again, interior equipment pushed the limits of current technology. Like the MK2 Ford's last attempt at a large European model brought together many feature found only in the most expensive cars. |
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Again, plush leather and walnut greeted occupants. Engine and road noise were barley audible, as the miles just waft away. |
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| Again, flagship models were Cosworth powered. The old Cologne V6, which first saw life in the UK over twenty years before, had come a long way. Although, few people would recognise it as being a generational ancestor of the original 2.8 found in the MK2; it bore a closer resemblance to the V6 engines, which would find their way into the S Type Jaguar . |
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Anyone familiar with American cars of the 90's will soon recognise the influence in the design of the Ultima models, however, the front lights came in for a great deal of ridicule. Ironically, this was probably the best full size European car Ford had ever produced. Its refinements put it head to head with the best of what Germany and the rest of the world could offer, however, the front-end design alienated many traditional buyers. Obviously a lesson should have been learnt from the the Sierra's shaky beginnings; traditional buyers don't like big changes.
In
production for only a few years, the Ultima has a strong following, however,
you either like its styling, or not, there isn't any real middle ground
Many people have asked my feeling on the Ultima! Personally, I quite like the shape, although it does look better in dark colours. I drove one for a short while as a company car and it was superb, it easily out performed the Mercedes, which later replaced it. It was quieter, and more comfortable, although most notably, it was far more reliable. In the 39,000 miles I covered, nothing went wrong. In comparison, the Mercedes broke down on average every 3000 miles.
| After the Ultima, Ford pulled out of the Full-size European market. Although, for a short while, they tested the waters with the American built Lincoln LS. However, with the acquisition of Volvo, the investment in Jaguar and Aston Martian, it was decided costs would outweigh the benefits and so we come to the end of a story, which Ford themselves begun. |  |
Well there could be! I came across the Ford Crown Victoria quite a few years ago. Although larger than the Granada, it fits the bill nicely. It's a large V8 powered rear wheel drive car and can be purchase new un the UK for quite a reasonable price. I personally like the design and after driving one in 2004 found I could happily see one sitting next to my MK2 in a few years time. So, watch this space!
Yes these are the cars so loved by the American Police!
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For
more information on the Ford Crown Victoria Visit www.ford.com
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R J Hodgson...
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