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The Fairmont proved to be a commercial triumph for Ford, with over 1.6 million units sold during its production run. It was also rebadged as the Mercury Zephyr, which sold around half a million units. This high demand can be partly attributed to its affordability, with the base model starting at just $3,744 in 1978—equivalent to roughly $1,116 in 2024.
In 1984, the Fairmont would be replaced by the front-wheel drive Ford Tempo, marking the end of an era for rear-wheel drive compact cars in the American market. The legacy of the Fairmont rests on its adaptability and the broad satisfaction it garnered among a diverse range of consumers during a challenging chapter in automotive history.