🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Festiva

Year:

1988

Internal Model Code:

WA

Platform:

Mazda B-Platform (shared with Mazda 121/Ford Fiesta Mk III in some markets)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

Entry-level subcompact car, positioned as an affordable and economical option in the late 1980s automotive market. Competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Sprint, Hyundai Excel, and Yugo Sana.

Competitive Analysis:

The Ford Festiva, a rebadged Mazda-developed vehicle, offered a compact footprint and fuel efficiency. Its primary selling points were its low price point and simple mechanicals, appealing to budget-conscious buyers and those seeking a no-frills city car.

Key Features:

Compact and lightweight design, fuel-efficient engine, affordable pricing, basic transportation focused.

User Benefit:

Empowers owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving money and gaining a deeper understanding of their vehicle. The digital format allows for targeted printing and easy use in a workshop setting.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

All Models & All Repairs A-Z, Specific to 1988 Ford Festiva

Page Count:

Not explicitly stated, but described as comprehensive for all repairs.

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

As a PDF, the manual is typically searchable, allowing quick access to specific topics.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Maintenance, Engine, Control System, Mechanical, Fuel Service Specifications, Emission Control, Intake/Exhaust/Cooling, Lube, Ignition/Starting/Charging, Auto Transmission, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Transfer/Propeller Shaft, Drive Shaft, Differential, Axle/Suspension, Tire & Wheel, Brake Control, Brake, Parking Brake, Steering Column, Power Steering, Air Conditioning, Supplemental Restraint System, Seat Belt, Engine Immobilizer, Cruise Control, Wiper & Washer, Door Lock, Meter/Audio/Visual, Horn, Windshield/Glass/Mirror, Instrument Panel, Seat, Engine Hood/Door, Exterior & Interior, Electrical, Multiplex/CAN Communication.

Procedures Included:

Step-by-step instructions for maintenance, diagnosis, servicing, and repair. Includes wiring schematics and diagrams.

Technical Depth:

Factory-level detailed repair manual, covering everything needed to completely repair the vehicle with ease. Comparable to technician-level dealership manuals.

Wiring Schematics:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all electrical systems are included.

Illustrations:

Detailed illustrations and diagrams are provided for most repair procedures.

Diagnostics:

Includes diagnostic procedures for troubleshooting various system faults.

Torque Specifications:

All necessary torque specifications for fasteners and critical components are provided.

Specifications:

Detailed technical specifications for all major vehicle systems are included.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Print Quality:

Printable pages, with ability to blow up images for enlarged copies.

Binding Type:

Digital (PDF) - No physical binding

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows AND Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader and Winzip (free online)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.3L (1340cc) Inline-4 SOHC, Naturally Aspirated

Horsepower:

Approximately 63 hp @ 5,500 rpm (varies slightly by market and specific engine code)

Torque:

Approximately 73 lb-ft @ 3,500 rpm (varies slightly by market and specific engine code)

Fuel System:

Fuel Injection (Multi-point or Single-point, depending on market and emissions regulations)

Engine Code:

B3 (Mazda designation)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Aluminum

Bore X Stroke:

71.0 mm x 83.6 mm (approximate)

Compression Ratio:

9.3:1 (approximate)

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Optional:

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

Features:

Front-wheel drive. Clutch type: Dry single plate.

Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Fluid Capacity Manual:

Approx. 2.0 Liters (for manual transmission)

Fluid Type Automatic:

Dexron II (or equivalent ATF)

Fluid Capacity Automatic:

Approx. 4.5 Liters (for automatic transmission, including torque converter)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3,720 mm (146.5 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,600 mm (63.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,355 mm (53.3 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,300 mm (90.6 in)

Front Track:

Approx. 1,360 mm (53.5 in)

Rear Track:

Approx. 1,350 mm (53.1 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 800-850 kg (1760-1875 lbs) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not explicitly stated, but typically around 1200-1300 kg.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

Information on official crash test ratings for the 1988 Ford Festiva is scarce and may not align with modern testing standards. Generally considered a very basic safety structure.

Active Features:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes.

Passive Features:

Seat belts (lap belts in rear, may have optional shoulder belts in front). Minimal passive safety features by modern standards.

Tire Size Standard:

165/70R13 (Common size, may vary by trim and market)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm (4x3.94 inches)

Steering Type:

Rack and Pinion, Manual Steering (Power steering was an option on some trims or markets).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Manual tuning, limited speaker configurations.

Driver Assistance:

None by modern standards. Features like ABS or airbags were generally not available or were very basic on early models.

Connectivity:

None. Relies on analog systems for all functions.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical for the era).

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (for standard plugs, platinum may last longer).

Coolant Flush:

Every 24,000 miles (38,000 km) or 24 months.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in colder climates).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.4 Liters (3.6 US quarts) with filter.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4)

Power Steering Fluid Type:

If equipped with power steering, typically ATF Dexron II (check manual for specific type).

Known Issues:

Corrosion in wheel wells and rocker panels, aging electrical components, potential for carburetor issues (if equipped in some markets), wear on suspension bushings, timing belt wear (critical replacement).

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. This is an interference engine, so failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Recommended Spark Plugs:

NGK BPR5ES or equivalent (check for specific engine codes and updates).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Ford has a long history of producing affordable and practical vehicles, often utilizing partnerships for specific models, especially in the economy car segment.

Model Evolution:

The Ford Festiva was developed by Mazda and originally sold as the Mazda 121 in many international markets. It was introduced in North America for the 1988 model year as part of Ford's strategy to offer a more competitive subcompact vehicle. It received a facelift in 1991 and was replaced by the Ford Aspire (also Mazda-derived) for the 1994 model year.

Production Location:

Primarily manufactured by Kia in South Korea under license from Mazda/Ford.

Production Years:

1986-1993 (Global), 1988-1993 (North America)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While not known for major awards, the Festiva was recognized in its time for affordability and economy. It was often featured in lists of budget-friendly vehicles.