Segment:
Compact/Mid-size sedan and hatchback, aimed at value-conscious buyers.
Competitors:
Chevrolet Cavalier, Oldsmobile Achieva, Pontiac Grand Am, Dodge Shadow, Plymouth Sundance.
Value Proposition:
Affordable and reliable transportation with a focus on practical features.
Manual Advantage:
Provides authorized, OE-derived repair data for accurate and efficient maintenance and repair.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, engine performance, emissions control, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, starting and charging system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, automatic transmission (AXOD/AX4S), drive axles, clutch system
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, anti-lock braking system (ABS, if equipped)
Steering Suspension:
Power steering system, suspension components (struts, shocks, control arms), wheel alignment
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting system, ignition system, instrument cluster, power windows, power locks, cruise control, diagnostic connectors
HVAC:
Heating system, air conditioning system, ventilation
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, chassis components, exhaust system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt replacement, tune-ups
Repair:
Component removal and installation, major overhauls, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, OBD-I diagnostic codes and procedures (for applicable systems)
Depth:
Factory-derived, in-depth repair and diagnostic information suitable for DIY and professional technicians
Engine 1:
2.3L (140 cu in) OHC I4 (Pinto/Lima engine)
Engine 1 Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine 1 Horsepower:
Approx. 90-100 hp (varies by specific calibration)
Engine 1 Torque:
Approx. 120-130 lb-ft (varies by specific calibration)
Engine 2:
2.3L (140 cu in) OHC I4 (High Output/Super-Charged)
Engine 2 Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Supercharger
Engine 2 Horsepower:
Approx. 120-130 hp (for supercharged model)
Engine 2 Torque:
Approx. 150-160 lb-ft (for supercharged model)
Oil Type:
API SG, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific climate recommendations)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 quarts (with filter change)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MTX-II)
Transmission Type:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (AXOD, later AX4S)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
MERCON Automatic Transmission Fluid
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Gear oil, SAE 75W-90 API GL-4 (verify with manual for specific MTX-II)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 104.1 inches
Length:
Approx. 177.7 inches (sedan), 177.4 inches (hatchback)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,600 - 2,900 lbs (depending on body style and options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 3,700 - 3,900 lbs
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not explicitly rated or data unavailable for this specific year and model through readily accessible sources.
Seatbelts:
Front: Three-point shoulder belts. Rear: Lap belts (three-point available on some models/trims).
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag became standard equipment in 1990 for this platform. Passenger airbag was not commonly available for this model year.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette tape player. Optional premium sound systems were available.
Cruise Control:
Optional feature on many trims.
ABS:
Anti-lock braking system available as an option on some models.
Connectivity Features:
No integrated Bluetooth or advanced connectivity features typical of modern vehicles. Analog communication systems.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil may extend intervals).
Air Filter:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type, e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 2-4 years.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon ATF or specific Ford power steering fluid.
Coolant:
Ford SuperCoolant (Orange) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Engine:
Potential for head gasket leaks, valve stem seal wear, and cooling system component failures (radiator, water pump, thermostat).
Transmission:
AXOD/AX4S automatic transmissions can be prone to internal wear and torque converter issues. Manual transmissions are generally robust but clutch wear is typical.
Electrical:
Corrosion in electrical connectors, failing alternator, and dashboard warning light malfunctions.
Suspension:
Worn control arm bushings, strut mount bearings, and tie rod ends are common wear items.
Manufacturer:
Mercury, a division of Ford Motor Company, established to occupy a mid-tier market position.
Platform Origin:
Based on Ford's front-wheel-drive FN9 platform, shared with the Ford Tempo. The 1991 model represents a mid-cycle refresh with updated styling and some feature enhancements.
Production Years:
1984-1994 (Mercury Topaz)
Manufacturing Location:
Likely North America (Specific plant details require deeper investigation, but common Ford assembly plants).
