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Notably, the Fairmont was the first American-designed Ford to incorporate a European-style interior, enhancing its appeal further. Touches like power brakes, a McPherson strut suspension, and rack-and-pinion steering contributed to a driving experience that was both modern and sophisticated for its time.
Engine Options and Performance
Throughout its production from 1978 to 1983, the Fairmont offered various powertrain options. The base model was equipped with Ford's 2.3L single overhead cam four-cylinder engine, producing 86-92 horsepower. A more performance-oriented option, available for just the 1980 model year, featured a turbo variant of the same engine, generating 120 horsepower.