What was the Ford version of the Mercury Monarch?
The Mercury Monarch, produced from 1975 to 1980, was a mid-size car that represented Mercury's entry into the compact car market during the 1970s. However, many may wonder what the Ford equivalent of this vehicle was. In this article, we will explore the Ford model that paralleled the Mercury Monarch and delve into its features and significance in the automotive landscape of the time.
Ford Granada: The Twin of the Mercury Monarch
The Ford version of the Mercury Monarch is the Ford Granada. Introduced in 1975, the Granada was designed to compete in the same market segment as the Monarch, offering similar dimensions and features. Both vehicles were built on the same platform, which allowed Ford to streamline production and share components between the two models.
Key Features of the Ford Granada
The Ford Granada was known for its comfortable ride and spacious interior, making it a popular choice among families and individuals alike. Here are some of the notable features:
- Engine Options: The Granada offered a range of engine choices, including a 2.8L V6 and a 4.9L V8, providing customers with options for both fuel efficiency and power.
- Design: The Granada featured a sleek, modern design that appealed to consumers looking for a stylish yet practical vehicle.
- Interior Comfort: With ample legroom and a well-appointed interior, the Granada was designed for comfort during long drives.
- Safety Features: The model included safety features such as a collapsible steering column and optional anti-lock brakes, which were innovative for its time.
Market Impact and Legacy
The Ford Granada, alongside the Mercury Monarch, played a significant role in the automotive market during the late 1970s. As gas prices rose and consumers began to prioritize fuel efficiency, both models offered a balance of size and economy. The Granada's success helped solidify Ford's presence in the mid-size car segment, paving the way for future models.
In conclusion, the Ford Granada stands as the direct counterpart to the Mercury Monarch, sharing many characteristics while catering to a similar audience. Both vehicles are remembered for their contributions to the automotive industry during a transformative era.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Mercury equivalent to the Ford Granada?
Mercury Monarch
Mercury Monarch (1975–1980)
Introduced alongside the Ford Granada in 1975, the Mercury Monarch was slotted above the mechanically-similar Mercury Comet. Nearly externally identical to the Granada, the Monarch received its own grille, fascia trim, and interior trim.
What is the Ford version of the Mercury Mariner?
Ford Escape Hybrid
The Mariner Hybrid powertrain was identical to its sibling, the Ford Escape Hybrid.
What was the Lincoln version of the Ford Granada?
The Lincoln Versailles
The Lincoln Versailles is a mid-size luxury car that was marketed by Lincoln from the 1977 to 1980 model years. The first Lincoln introduced outside of the full-size segment, the Versailles is a rebranded version of the Ford Granada and Mercury Monarch.
What car replaced the Ford Granada?
Ford Scorpio
The Ford Scorpio is an executive car that was produced by Ford Germany from 1985 to 1998. It was the replacement for the European Ford Granada line (although in the UK and Ireland the Scorpio was marketed under the Granada name until 1994). Like its predecessor, the Scorpio was targeted at the executive car market.
What was Ford's version of the Mercury Sable?
Ford Taurus
Over its production span, the Sable was Mercury's badge-engineered counterpart to the Ford Taurus, below the Grand Marquis in the Mercury range.
What was the Mercury version of the Ford Galaxie?
Ford Galaxie 500XL
Developed as a performance-oriented version of the mid-level Mercury Monterey, the S-55 was the largest vehicle of the Mercury "S" (Special) range introduced in 1962; its Ford equivalent was the Ford Galaxie 500XL and competed in the full-size luxury sport coupe market segment against the Chrysler 300H.
What was Ford's version of the Mercury Cyclone?
Though largely overshadowed by the Cougar, the Cyclone was positioned as a muscle car, representing the Mercury brand in racing as a clone of the Ford Fairlane Thunderbolt. Four generations of the Cyclone were produced, with production ending after the 1971 model year.
Is the Ford Granada the same as the Falcon?
Ford Australia's 1979–1982 XD series Falcon bears a strong visual resemblance to the Granada Mark II, however the only parts common to both cars are the headlamps; the Falcon being a larger car with a significantly longer wheelbase and US-derived engines and chassis architecture.
Why did they stop making Crown Vics?
These large body-on-frame sedans simply weren't popular enough for the automakers to keep investing in the platform. The Crown Vic in particular had some engineering safety issues and lawsuits that most likely also encouraged Ford to scrap it. Probably safety, changing customer trends, and emissions.
What was the Ford equivalent to the Mercury Marquis?
Crown Victoria
The Ford counterpart of the Mercury Grand Marquis, the Crown Victoria was the largest sedan marketed by Ford in North America, slotted above the Ford Taurus.
