1981 Ford Fairmont

The 1981 Ford Fairmont came powered with an overhead cam four-cylinder engine displacing 140 cubic-inches and offering nearly 90 horsepower. A six-cylinder, 3.3-liter engine was amiable, also offering nearly 90 horsepower. An overhead valve V8 displaced 4.2 liters and had 115 horsepower. Both the 4.2-liter V8 and the 3.3-liter six now had a viscous-clutch fan drive. The turbocharged four was no longer offered, nor was the four-speed manual gearbox on the six.

The Fairmont featured a new grille that had a crosshatch pattern and two horizontal dividers which split it into three rows. The Futura wagon and four-door sedan had quad rectangular headlamps and a unique grille. They also were given an upgraded interior and additional trim on the body.

Bodystyles included a 2- and 4-door sedan, and a station wagon. New standard equipment included bucket seats, deluxe sound package, dual-note horn, visor vanity mirror, rear seat ashtray, glovebox lock, bright window frames, and disc brakes in the front. Options gained a console with diagnostic warning lights and a digital clock. A Traction-Lock rear axle on V8-engined cars, lighted visor vanity mirror, and illuminated entry system could also be purchased for an additional cost.

By Daniel Vaughan | Feb 2015