By Mark Nobes, chief editor
The Orion launched in 1983 to fill the gap for a four door saloon, which Ford had dropped from the Escort range in 1980 when the Mk3 came out. Although it was virtually the same length as the Sierra, it had more legroom for rear passengers and a bigger boot space.
Initially, no budget models were offered with basic trim levels and an 1100 engine, and you would have to fork out for a GL or Ghia with a 1300 or 1600cc engine. The lower spec L was introduced in 1984.
You may remember when sunroofs were popular back in the 80s. The Ghia 1.6l came with one as standard, as well as rear head restraints and sports seats in the front. Also included were central locking and electric windows, something that even the most basic cars today offer as standard.
An Orion Ghia i featured on an advertising card
As with the Escort, in 1986 the Orion had a facelift and the second generation models had improved engines, new suspension and updated trim. High-end models had the added luxury of ABD brakes and a heated front windscreen. All models could now run on unleaded fuel without modifications.
Late on in 1988, a limited edition 1600E was launched (see photo above) which even surpassed the 1.6i in terms of luxury. It was pretty desirable and came in metallic grey, white or black with ES alloy wheels, leather seats and wood covers on the dashboard and doors. Just 1600 were built.
September 1990 saw the launch of the Mk3, which was the last version made. Once again, the design was rather uninspiring and faced much criticism from the motoring magazines. Three years later, and the Orion nametag was dropped altogether in an effort to boost sales of the Escort range.
The Orion became very popular here in the UK, and in 1987 and 1988 it was the seventh best-selling car.
Photo: Ford Orion Ghia Mk1 (1984)
The rear end of an Orion 1.6 GL
The interior of a 1988 left hand drive 1.6 Orion
The engine bay of an Orion, although it's not stated by the photographer exactly which model.
A 1989 1600E which has seen better days!
Rear view of a 1984 Orion
Public Domain image of a 1986 Ford Orion - grey
Public Domain Photo (free to use) of a 1983 Ford Orion GL in Ocean Blue
A Ford Orion with it's bonnet up. I'm not suggesting for one minute that they were unreliable, though.
Although I wasn't a big Orion fan, I always thought this model looked quite smart. I especially like those pepperpot wheels (so 80s it hurts!), although the RS alloys on the 1600E were the smartest, by far.
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
