1971 Ford Custom Series

The muscle car era of the late 1960s, characterized by escalating engine sizes and horsepower growth, resulted in new safety and emission regulations implemented during the early-1970s. The impending oil embargo cemented the switch from sport to luxury, and from high horsepower engines to smaller, more fuel-efficient powerplants. To this end, Ford completely restyled two model lines for 1970 and introduced the sub-compact, affordable, and fuel-sipping Pinto. The Fairlane and the 'FE' series big-block V-8 engines were dropped.

The 1971 Ford Custom line was offered as a sedan or range wagon with base and Custom 500 trim levels. These full-size vehicles came standard with either a 240 cubic-inch six-cylinder engine with 140 horsepower or a 302 cubic-inch V8 with 210 horsepower. The sedans had a base price of $3,290 and the ranch wagon (available only with the V8) was priced at $3,890.

Wearing new styling, the Ford Custom Line had a full-width horizontal grille with a larger, vertical center section that extended forward, forming a point. The grille was flanked on either side by dual round headlights enclosed in chrome bezels. Chrome molding was also used for the windshield and rear window. The Custom 500 trim level added polished aluminum wheel-well moldings, rear deck molding, chrome appliques on the instrument panel, and Custom 500 insignia.

By Daniel Vaughan | Aug 2020