What replaced the Ford Aerostar?
The Ford Aerostar, a popular minivan model produced from 1986 to 1997, was eventually replaced by the Ford Windstar in 1995. The Windstar was Ford's answer to the growing demand for more modern and spacious minivans in the mid-1990s.
The Rise and Fall of the Ford Aerostar
The Ford Aerostar was introduced in 1986 as a rear-wheel-drive minivan, offering a unique blend of utility and performance. It quickly gained popularity among families and small businesses, becoming a staple on American roads. However, as the minivan market evolved, the Aerostar's design began to feel outdated, and Ford recognized the need for a more competitive offering.
The Ford Windstar: A New Era in Minivan Design
In 1995, Ford unveiled the Windstar, a front-wheel-drive minivan that was designed to better compete with the growing number of minivans from other manufacturers. The Windstar featured a more modern, aerodynamic design, increased interior space, and a range of new features that appealed to families and small businesses.
Key Differences Between the Aerostar and Windstar
- Drivetrain: The Aerostar was rear-wheel-drive, while the Windstar was front-wheel-drive, providing improved handling and maneuverability.
- Design: The Windstar had a more contemporary, aerodynamic appearance, compared to the Aerostar's more boxy, utilitarian design.
- Interior Space: The Windstar offered increased passenger and cargo capacity, with more flexible seating configurations.
- Features: The Windstar introduced new technologies and amenities, such as power sliding doors and integrated child seats, that were not available on the Aerostar.
The transition from the Ford Aerostar to the Ford Windstar marked a significant shift in the minivan market, as Ford sought to keep pace with the evolving needs and preferences of consumers. The Windstar's modern design, increased functionality, and range of features helped it become a popular choice for families and small businesses in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Why was Ford Windstar discontinued?
Transmission issues plagued early models, and concerns about reliability dogged the minivan throughout its production run. Additionally, some criticized its handling, particularly in comparison to its nimbler competitors. In 2007, Ford discontinued the Windstar, replaced by the larger and more truck-like Freestar.
When was the last Ford Aerostar made?
The Ford Aerostar was the first minivan manufactured by Ford Motor Company. The vehicle was introduced in 1985 as a 1986 model. The Aerostar was discontinued after 1997 and replaced by the Windstar, which was sold alongside since 1995.
What is the successor of the Ford Freestar?
In 2009, the Ford Flex was introduced as the replacement for the discontinued Ford Freestar/Mercury Monterey. The Taurus X was discontinued for the 2009 model year, with the Flex unofficially serving as its replacement.
What was the last year Ford Thunderbirds were made?
2005
The Ford Thunderbird is a personal luxury car manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company for model years 1955 to 2005, with a hiatus from 1998–2001.
What happened to the Ford Aerostar?
The Aerostar was replaced for the 1995 model year by the front-wheel drive Ford Windstar; Ford sold both model lines concurrently through the 1997 model year. The role of the Aerostar cargo van was left unfilled, with the Ford Transit Connect serving as the closest successor (in terms of size and capability).
What is the Ford Freestar controversy?
In the plaintiffs' minivans, the torque converter failed, stripping the grooves connecting it to the transmission, which in turn failed. After the action was filed, Ford issued a recall on 2004-2005 Freestars and Montereys instructing owners to take their car to a dealer for a free new torque converter.
Why was the Ford Freestar discontinued?
Following a decline in sales across the minivan segment in the mid-2000s, the Freestar and Monterey were discontinued after the 2007 model year with no direct replacement.
Does Ford still make Aerostar?
The Ford Aerostar is a range of vans that was manufactured by Ford from the 1986 to the 1997 model years. The first minivan produced by Ford, the model line was marketed against the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari and the first two generations of the Chrysler minivans.
What was the last Ford minivan?
In 2004 Ford freshened the Windstar, and renamed it Freestar. The most notable improvement was a flat-folding third-row seat. Handling improved somewhat, but fit and finish remained unimpressive. The Freestar was seriously outclassed and dated by the time it was discontinued after 2007.
What is the best year of the Ford Windstar?
H3: 1999-2000 Ford Windstar: A Sweet Spot? Many Windstar owners point to the 1999 and 2000 model years as particularly reliable.
